Switch to ADA Accessible Theme
Close Menu
Daytona Beach Injury Lawyer
Contact Us For a Free Consultation
Google Translate Schedule Your Case
Evaluation Now!
Daytona Beach Lawyers > Blog > Property Damage / Insurance > Eight Easy Steps For Filing A Property Damage Claim

Eight Easy Steps For Filing A Property Damage Claim

8

Even relatively minor property damages in Daytona Beach can result in major expenses. Going through the process of filing a property damage claim, particularly when dealing with insurers, is rarely easy. Our experienced property damages claims attorneys recommend eight steps to simplify the process and expedite your settlement.

Simplifying The Process of Filing A Property Damage Claim 

There is nothing simple about property damages, but following these steps can make the process of filing a claim easier and more effective:

  1. Contact your insurance company immediately. 

Regardless of the reasons or the extent of damage suffered, notify your insurance company immediately. Do this before cleaning up, getting estimates on repairs, or taking other actions.

  1. File a police report.

Notifying law enforcement provides a written record of the event, which can be used as evidence when filing or disputing a claim.

  1. Review the terms of your policy and your rights as a policyholder.

Locate all policy documents, jot down the policy number, and familiarize yourself with the different types of coverage you have. Review your rights as a policyholder through the Florida Department of Insurance website.

  1. Document your damages. 

This is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself. The Insurance Information Institute (III) advises having a detailed, regularly updated inventory of your property in place. After suffering any type of damage, go through and make notes about the condition of all items or structures, taking pictures and videos to use as evidence. 

  1. File your claim.

Your insurance company should provide the appropriate forms or a link to download them online. Carefully review all instructions and provide accurate information about the event and the extent of damage suffered.

  1. Meet with the insurance adjuster.

The insurance company will send an adjuster to your home. Using the list you make in step four, go with them to review all of the damages on your property. During this visit, the less said the better. Avoid speculation about the causes of damage or unnecessary details, which could eventually be used against you. 

  1. Document all dealings with the insurance company. 

Keep a detailed journal logging the steps you have taken and all interactions with the insurer or their representatives. Make note of the names of the people you speak with, the dates of phone calls or visits, and a file containing all written correspondence.

  1. Carefully review any proposed settlements.

It is not uncommon for insurers to offer an immediate settlement that is far less than the total amount you deserve or need for repairs. Before accepting this amount or signing any documents, speak to our Daytona Beach property damage claims attorney first.

Contact Us Today for Help

Once you accept a settlement for property damages, you are forfeiting your rights in future claims. To ensure you get the full amount you are entitled to, reach out to Bundza & Rodriguez first. Call or contact our Daytona Beach residential & commercial property damage attorneys online to request a consultation today.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn