Sarasota Property Damage Lawyers

Have you suffered property damage in Sarasota, Florida? When catastrophic events occur or storm clouds roll in, it is important to know your rights when it comes to property damage. At Herman & Wells Law firm, we specialize in helping Sarasota residents receive rightful compensation for property damages caused by natural disasters or negligent parties.

Sarasota Resident Checks Property Damage denied by Insurance

Our team at Herman & Wells is here to answer all your questions and provide you with the legal representation you need to get the best outcome for your case. We understand the great emotional and financial toll property damage can take on families, and we work hard to ensure that Sarasota homeowners are able to adequately protect their homes and other assets. 

Call (727) 821-3195 to request a free claim review with one of our insurance dispute lawyers.

Unhappy With Your Insurance Provider’s Decision? When Should You Dispute?

Unfortunately, insurance companies aren’t always on the policyholder’s side when it comes to reimbursing for property damage. When that happens, you may need to dispute your insurance company’s decision and fight for justice. If you decide to dispute your insurance company’s decision, our team of property damage lawyers can help build a case against them and get the financial compensation you deserve. 

Sarasota property damage lawyers know Florida’s insurance laws, understand how to properly handle disputes and provide experienced legal representation to make sure your rights are protected in court. It may be difficult to stand up against a powerful and well-funded insurance company. Sarasota property damage lawyers can level the playing field and represent your interests in court.

What You Should Know About Property Damage Claims In Sarasota?

Property damage claims are not as simple as filing a single form. You must prove that property damages have been incurred, and in some cases, the cause of the damage. Sarasota residents know that hurricanes, floods, and fires can all have devastating effects on their property. Some evidence claimants are asked to provide include:

  • Accurate records of losses, such as receipts and appraisals: This evidence is necessary to prove the value of your property before and after the incident took place.
  • Police reports: If the damage was caused by someone else’s negligence, it is important to have a police report as proof. 
  • Witness statements/testimonies: Witnesses can help bolster your claim.
  • Pictures of the damaged property: Having photographs of the damaged property can help demonstrate the extent of the damage.
  • Proof that the damage was caused by a natural disaster or negligent party.

If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to work with an experienced Sarasota law firm like Herman & Wells. We understand the complexities of property damage law and can help you assess the situation, provide advice on filing a claim, and ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible. We are passionate about helping Sarasota residents who have suffered property damage get back to their normal lives with minimal disruptions. 

When Do You Need A Property Damage Lawyer?

If you’re in Sarasota, Florida and have suffered property damage as a result of someone else’s negligence, you may need to hire a property damage lawyer. Property damage lawyers can help you negotiate with insurance companies, file lawsuits if necessary, and get the compensation you deserve for your losses.

How Can Our Sarasota Property Damage Lawyers Help You?

At the Sarasota office of Herman & Wells, our experienced property damage lawyers are dedicated to helping individuals and businesses in Sarasota, Florida that have suffered property damage recover maximum compensation. Our Sarasota property damage lawyers will work closely with you to ensure your legal rights are protected and that you receive the full amount of damages you deserve. 

Most importantly our Sarasota property damage lawyers have extensive trial experience. If a Sarasota insurance company denies your property damage claim or refuses to pay out, we are more than prepared to fight for you in court.

Common Reasons Property Damage Claims Are Denied In Sarasota?

Property damage claims can be complicated, and Sarasota, Florida residents should know that insurance companies often deny property damage claims. While your Sarasota property damage lawyer will help strategize ways to get the most out of your claim, understanding some of the common reasons why insurance companies deny a claim can make all the difference: 

1. Not Reporting The Claim Quickly Enough 

Most insurance companies have a time limit on how long you have to report your property damage claim. Sarasota residents should make sure they are aware of their particular policy’s timeline, or else they risk having their claim denied due to lack of timely reporting. 

2. Not Having The Right Documentation

Sarasota insurance claims require detailed documentation of the damage and costs to repair or replace your property. Without this information, some Sarasota property damage claims may be denied by insurance companies. 

3. Not Understanding The Policy

Understanding all the details and conditions of your Sarasota property damage insurance policy is essential for successfully getting a claim accepted by the insurance company. For example, it’s common for hurricane insurance to exclude flooding. Sarasota property damage lawyers are great resources to help Sarasota residents understand their policies and make sure they meet all of the criteria for a successful claim. 

4. Not Cooperating With The Investigation

Sarasota property damage claims often require an investigation, and Sarasota residents should cooperate with this process in order to ensure their claim is accepted. Not doing so could lead to a denied property damage claim. 

5. Making False Or Exaggerated Claims

Sarasota insurance companies will deny property damage claims if it appears that the Sarasota resident has made any false or exaggerated statements about their damages in order to receive more money for their claim. 

6. Insurance Company Acting In Bad Faith

This is the most common type of Sarasota property damage claim denial. Sarasota property damage lawyers are especially helpful here, as they can help Sarasota residents navigate the process and understand their rights in the situation. 

Bad faith means Sarasota insurance companies engage in fraudulent or unfair practices, like delaying the resolution of Sarasota property damage claims or denying valid Sarasota property damage claims without a reasonable explanation. Sarasota property damage lawyers can help Sarasota residents understand their rights and pursue the maximum compensation for their claims. 

It’s important to remember that Sarasota insurance companies have a responsibility to fully investigate each claim before denying them. Working with an experienced Sarasota property damage lawyer can help Sarasota residents make sure their rights are protected throughout the claims process. 

What Types Of Property Damage Are Covered Under A Standard Homeowners Policy In Sarasota?

If you’re a homeowner in Sarasota, Florida, then you know that property damage can be costly and stressful to deal with. When it comes time to file a claim for property damage caused by natural disasters or accidents, having the right insurance coverage is essential. But what types of property damage are typically covered under a standard homeowners policy in Sarasota? Most standard policies provide coverage for a wide range of property damage, such as loss or damage caused by:

  • Fire
  • Wind
  • Hail
  • Lightning
  • Explosion
  • Theft

They also provide additional coverage for other types of property damage that might not be covered under your regular policy. This could include damage caused by:

  • Vandalism
  • Floods
  • Sewage backups

However, no two homeowners’ policies are the same, so you should always read your policy carefully to make sure you understand what types of property damage it covers. If you’re unsure about any of the coverage in your policy, it’s best to talk to a property damage lawyer in Sarasota who can review your policy and explain what it covers.

Can You Sue Your Insurance Company For Denying A Property Damage Claim?

If you have experienced property damage in Sarasota, Florida and your insurance company has denied your claim, you may feel helpless. In this case, it is important to understand that you can take legal action against the insurance provider if they are not honoring the terms of your policy. The process of suing your insurance company may seem daunting, but experienced property damage lawyers can help make the process as smooth and simple as possible.

$25,000 settlement for roof damages caused by hail

Most Common Causes Of Property Damage Claims In Sarasota

The most common causes of property damage claims in Sarasota Florida include: 

  • Hurricanes and flooding
  • Tornadoes
  • Lightning strikes
  • Hail damage
  • Wind damage
  • Vandalism or theft
  • Negligence or intentional misconduct by third parties
  • Accidents involving motor vehicles, watercraft, and other transportation-related incidents
  • Hazardous material spills
  • Defective products.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Property Damage Attorney?

It could be expensive to hire a property damage lawyer, but it is important to understand the costs before making any decisions. Sarasota, Florida has some of the most experienced and knowledgeable attorneys in the field of property damage law. 

If you’re considering hiring a Sarasota property damage attorney, you should make sure to do your research. Some Sarasota lawyers charge an hourly rate for their services, with rates varying depending on the complexity of the case and the attorney’s level of experience. Some Sarasota property damage attorneys may also charge a flat fee for representation, but it is important to ask about fees before committing to any one lawyer. 

Our Sarasota property damage lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means that payment is not due until a satisfactory settlement or trial verdict is reached. This allows clients to place the financial burden of litigation on the firm, rather than assuming all expenses upfront. We know that the cost of legal services is an important part of making informed decisions on who should represent you.

Book a Free Claim Review With Our Sarasota Property Damage Lawyers

At the Law Offices of Herman & Wells, we understand how devastating property damage can be. That’s why our Sarasota property damage lawyers are here to help you fight for justice and fair compensation after your loss. 

We have over 25 years of experience advocating on behalf of Floridians who have been affected by property damage most commonly caused by hurricanes and can help you build your case and ensure that you receive the compensation you need to move forward.

If you’re ready to take action after suffering property damage in Sarasota or elsewhere in Florida, contact us to book a free claim review and learn more about how our experienced attorneys can assist you.

Case Results

See More Case Results

Shifflet v. Citizens Insurance

Citizens denied our client’s claim, saying that it didn’t have to pay because the damage was caused by decaying organic soil. We filed suit and, after a week-long jury trial, the jury found for our client.

Initial Position

Denied

$294,000.00

Underpaid Fire Loss

Our client’s home was burned in an accidental fire.  The insurance company delayed paying and, when it finally paid, didn’t pay enough to replace the home.  We fought for additional living expense, building coverage, lost rental income, and other available coverage.  After going through an appraisal and then filing a lawsuit, we were able to recover over $450,000 from the insurance company.

Initial Position

Underpaid

$460,000.00

Call us today for a Free Case Evaluation

(727) 821-3195