Common Mistakes To Avoid When Filing Property Damage Claims

Damage to a home is often devastating. As a home or business owner who has purchased insurance to cover you in the event of a disaster, you likely have the right to file a claim and receive compensation. Unfortunately, insurance companies are usually more concerned with their own bottom line than helping you in your time of need.

To make sure you are not taken advantage of and that you receive the full coverage you deserve, it is important to avoid some costly mistakes. Below, our Daytona Beach residential and commercial property damage lawyer explains some of the most common that are made in these cases.

Neglecting to Read Your Policy

One of the best ways to protect yourself is to fully read and understand your policy. If you do not, the insurance company will try to take advantage of you. They may tell you the damage is not covered when it is, or they may say the damage falls into a certain loophole. Read the entire insurance policy, including endorsements. If your insurer still tries to act in bad faith, it is time to speak to an attorney.

Delaying Notice to Your Insurer

It is critical that you contact the insurance company right away after your property has sustained damage. If you delay notice to your insurer, they may argue that you did not mitigate damage, or that you failed to report your claim in a timely manner. The majority of insurance policies require you to notify the insurer right away, so comply with that requirement and do not give them ammunition to use against you.

Failing to Collect Evidence

Photographs and video footage of the damage are some of the most important evidence used when filing a property damage claim. Make sure you obtain as many images as possible, and from as many angles as possible. Also create an inventory of all damaged property, including the purchase price and the cost of repair. Lastly, document any conversation with an insurance representative or adjuster. Write down their name, contact information, time and date of the communication, and what was said.

Repairing or Discarding Damaged Property Too Soon

Damaged property is also critical evidence when filing a claim. If you do not retain it, the insurance company will say there is no evidence that you lost the property you are claiming coverage for. Do not repair or discard damaged property until your insurance company or another authority has instructed you to do so.

Waiting to Speak to a Residential and Commercial Property Damage Lawyer in Daytona Beach

The above mistakes are just a few of the most common people make and insurance companies will use them to delay, deny, or reduce your claim. It is critical that you speak to one of our Daytona Beach residential and commercial property damage lawyers at Bundza & Rodriguez as soon as possible. Our seasoned attorneys will not allow them to get away with these tactics so you receive the full and fair coverage you deserve. Call us now at 386-252-5170 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to learn more.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699/0624/Sections/0624.155.html