When Sarah and her husband returned home after Hurricane Helene, devastation was an understatement. Their roof was gone, water had flooded every corner of the house, and broken windows left debris scattered everywhere. Despite having hurricane insurance, Sarah didn’t know where to begin. Should she start taking pictures? Begin repairs? Call her insurance company? She felt completely overwhelmed—until she reached out to us. With our expert guidance, Sarah quickly went from feeling lost to empowered, knowing exactly what steps to take to begin restoring her home.
If you’re feeling like Sarah did after these recent hurricanes, we’re here to help. Let’s make sure you’re taking the right steps to get the maximum compensation to rebuild your life. Schedule a consultation with our experienced insurance claim lawyers today: (727) 821-3195.
The Cliff Notes: Key Takeaways From This Post
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Essential steps to secure your home after a hurricane: Begin by securing exposed areas, such as broken windows and damaged roofs, to prevent further harm. This not only protects your property but also demonstrates proactive measures to your insurer.
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How to document damage properly for your insurance claim: Take clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles, focusing on both wide shots and detailed close-ups of affected areas. Thorough documentation strengthens your claim and provides a solid foundation for negotiations with your insurer.
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Understanding the fine print of your hurricane insurance policy: It’s crucial to fully understand what your policy covers, especially regarding wind versus flood damage. Many homeowners are surprised by these exclusions, so reviewing your policy thoroughly helps prevent unexpected denials.
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Why hiring a professional assessor early can save you time and stress: Hiring a professional assessor ensures accurate damage documentation and strengthens your position during the claims process. Acting quickly with an expert on your side increases the chances of a fair settlement from your insurance company.
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Timing and tactics for filing your insurance claim effectively: Filing your claim as soon as possible with proper documentation is key to speeding up the process. Being organized, timely, and responsive improves the likelihood of a swift and favorable resolution.
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How we can help: Contact Herman & Wells for a consultation at (727) 821-3195.
Securing Your Home Post-Hurricane: Immediate Steps
When Sarah first saw the damage to her home, her instinct was to start cleaning up right away. However, in those early moments, it’s crucial to pause and focus on securing your property without altering any of the existing damage. This means covering exposed areas—like broken windows or a damaged roof—with tarps or plywood to prevent further deterioration. These steps not only protect your home from more damage but also strengthen your insurance claim by demonstrating that you took immediate, responsible action to minimize additional losses.
Essential Safety Checks Before Re-Entering Your Home
Once the storm had passed, the first thing Sarah did was check for safety hazards before stepping back inside. She carefully inspected for downed power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage that could pose a risk. Re-entering your home too soon or without taking the proper precautions can be dangerous. Before doing anything else, make sure your home is safe to re-enter. If you have any doubts, it’s always best to consult professionals like electricians or building inspectors to assess the situation and keep you safe.
Documenting The Damage: Follow This Guide
How To Photograph Your Property For Insurance Claims
Sarah knew she needed to document the damage, but she wasn’t sure just how detailed she had to be. We guided her to take clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles, along with close-ups of specific problem areas like her collapsed roof and waterlogged floors. Thorough documentation is essential for a successful insurance claim—it shows the full extent of the damage and supports your case. To do the same, take plenty of photos and videos, making sure to capture every detail, from minor cracks to major structural issues. The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be.
Creating A Detailed Inventory Of Damages
Beyond photographs, Sarah compiled a list of everything damaged in the storm—furniture, appliances, and personal items. She documented what was broken, estimated the value, and noted when each item was purchased. This detailed inventory helped strengthen her insurance claim by providing a clear picture of the loss. Do the same by cataloging both large and small items and including as much detail as possible.