There Is No Better Time Than NOW To Prepare For The Next Major Storm
As you are well aware, our Sunshine State brings more than its fair share of major storm events. Did you know that over 40% of all hurricanes that occur in the United States hit Florida. That is why it is important to check your insurance policy, as once a storm receives a name, it is too late to obtain coverage.
A quick note, standard storm damage policies cover wind damage from "Acts of God", such as from a hurricane, wind storm, hail storm, or tornado but do NOT cover flood damage. A special flood insurance policy can be purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
What To Do Before The Storm
Tips to be prepared for your insurance claim in case a storm is heading your way:
- Call or visit your insurance agent prior to a storm to discuss your policy. Confirm that you have RCV coverage and not ACV coverage.
- Have your insurance agent's contact information and your policy in a safe and easily accessible place.
- Take inventory of your household items, especially valuables.
- Photograph and/or videotape items for verification and keep in a safe place such as a safety deposit box.
- Read your insurance policy and know what your responsibilities are.
- Know what is and isn't covered, and know your general/specific policy limits and deductibles.
What To Do After The Storm
Tips to be prepared to fight your insurance claim if a storm has impacted your property:
- Contact a professional contractor experienced in insurance restoration repairs & notify your insurance agent of the damage as soon as possible.
- Have your contractor make any temporary repairs to mitigate further damage to your home.
- Have your contractor prepare a scope of work for the insurance company and if possible, meet the insurance adjuster at your home during the inspection if possible.
- Save receipts for anything you may spend and submit them to your insurance company for reimbursement.
- Don't throw away any damaged items until an adjuster visits your home.
- Photograph and/or videotape the damage for your records and the insurance company.
- Make a copy of your home inventory for your adjuster.
There's No Need For Concern - We've Got You Covered!
Shield Construction can help guide you with filing a new claim as well as assist in negotiating a proper settlement in the event that you have already received an unjust claim settlement. We will review & compare your initial insurance settlement with our "accurate" scope-of-work to look for any missing coverage, discrepancies, and overall determine if you were adequately covered by your insurance company.
If not, we will advocate on your behalf along with submitting our scope-of-work & detailed estimate to your insurance company, as well as photos & a detailed explanation for each item that justifies the corrective course of action necessary to restore all damages sustained to your property correctly, taking into account all of Florida's building codes, matching laws, & other regulations.
Most of the time we will be able to work this out directly with your insurance company, however, in the event that your insurance company is still not willing to provide a fair settlement and continues to be difficult, we have formed strategic relationships with specialized claims attorneys who will help assist us in making sure you receive the settlement you deserve! Our team is standing by, so if you have questions about your claim or damage to your home or commercial property, get in touch with us today!