Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene: How Two Back-to-Back Storms Could Complicate Your Florida Insurance Claim

After Hurricanes Helene and Milton, many Florida homeowners faced overwhelming damage and a complex insurance claims process. When hurricanes hit back-to-back, insurers often add layers of difficulty to the claims process, making it crucial to understand your rights. At Herman & Wells, we offer the guidance and support you need to tackle even the most challenging storm claims. Start your claim review with us today — call (727) 821-3195 and take the first step toward a fair resolution.

Florida homeowners know the risks of hurricane season, but back-to-back hurricanes present unique challenges. The destruction from Hurricanes Helene and Milton has left countless Floridians with extensive repair needs and facing delayed or denied claims. When storms hit quickly, insurers often rely on coverage restrictions and exclusions, slowing down the process and, in some cases, limiting payouts. Understanding how consecutive storms impact your insurance is key to navigating these challenges effectively.

When hurricanes hit one after the other, insurance policies and deductibles are often interpreted differently. Multiple storms can exhaust or reduce your policy coverage limits, impacting your ability to make full claims for each storm. In some cases, certain types of damage from the second storm may be excluded if insurers deem it worsened by the first. Knowing how to address these complications can significantly influence your claim outcome.

Determining a total loss under Florida’s valued policy law can become complex when evaluating damage after two hurricanes. Insurers may debate whether a property qualifies for total or constructive total loss, directly impacting your claim amount. Careful assessment of damage from both storms is often required to establish the full extent of losses.

After consecutive hurricanes, it’s common for claims to encounter disputes over the primary cause of damage, wind or water. Insurers may argue whether hurricane-driven wind or storm surge flooding caused more damage, affecting coverage. These distinctions can influence your payout, making accurate documentation essential.

Accurately distinguishing between damages from the first and second hurricanes is crucial, as insurers may deny coverage for any damages they consider pre-existing. Homeowners are tasked with proving which storm caused specific damage to validate claims for both events.

With high volumes of claims following consecutive hurricanes, delays in assessments and approvals are common. The increased demand for adjusters can mean longer inspection wait times, often leaving homeowners without a clear path forward on their claims.

Consecutive storms can make it challenging to gather adequate documentation, as damage from the first hurricane may worsen or be compounded by the second. Evidence such as photos or initial assessments may be lost, complicating proving the full extent of the losses.

While dual hurricane claims can be challenging, there are some benefits. Florida’s annual hurricane deductible allows policyholders to satisfy only one deductible per hurricane season, which can reduce costs when filing multiple claims. Additionally, flood coverage limits are renewed for each hurricane. If new flood damage occurred with the second storm, it may be covered under a fresh limit, provided the damage is documented and linked to the second event.

If you’re managing dual-storm damage, documentation is key. Take photos and videos (when it’s safe to do so), gather repair estimates, and keep every piece of paperwork from both claims. Communicate with your insurer to clarify deductible requirements and any policy adjustments, and be prepared to file appeals if your claim is denied. Meticulous record-keeping and proactive communication will strengthen your case and improve your chances of a fair settlement.

Dealing with the compounded damage of consecutive hurricanes can be overwhelming, and having an experienced insurance attorney can make a difference. Attorneys skilled in Florida hurricane claims can interpret complex policies, assist with gathering crucial evidence, and advocate on your behalf against the insurance company. Their expertise can be especially valuable in cases involving policy exclusions or claim denials, ensuring all avenues are explored to secure the compensation you deserve.

Filing insurance claims after consecutive hurricanes can be challenging, but you don’t have to go through it alone. The team at Herman & Wells is dedicated to helping Florida homeowners secure the coverage they deserve, even in complex, back-to-back storm situations.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward a fair outcome. Call (727) 821-3195 to get started with your claim.