How To Prepare For A Property Damage Claim Before A Storm Hits

Anyone who lives in Florida knows just how common hurricanes, tornadoes, tropical storms, and other devastating events are throughout the state. Any devastating storm can wreak havoc on your property, your pocketbook, and your stress levels. Fortunately, there are ways you can prepare to make sure the aftermath of a serious storm does not take such a heavy toll. Below, our Daytona Beach residential and commercial property damage lawyer outlines some of the best ways to stay prepared.

Review Your Insurance Policy 

If you do not understand your insurance policy and what you are covered for, the insurance company will try to take advantage of that fact. The insurer will try to minimize their own costs by telling you there is not sufficient coverage, or that the damage falls into a loophole. Understand your coverage limits, what you are covered for, what you are not covered for, and your deductible so you and your insurance company are on equal footing.

Consider Purchasing Flood Insurance 

Flood insurance and coverage for water damage are two very different things in the world of insurance. Flood damage will cover natural events, such as if a tropical storm causes flooding inside your home, while water damage insurance covers internal issues, such as broken pipes. Due to how common tropical storms are in the Sunshine State, all Floridians should have coverage for both flooding and water damage.

Take Inventory 

When filing a property damage claim, you can include not only structural damage but also damage to your personal items, as well. To do this, you need to have a thorough understanding of what you have lost. Create a detailed list of all of your belongings, and keep receipts in a safe and waterproof location. When creating a list of personal items, also include:

• The original price
• The date you purchased the item
• The location of the purchase
• The year it was manufactured
• The model number
• Specific details that will affect the value of the item, such as when a rare piece of art increases in value

Taking pictures of the items as well as important information related to them, such as a serial number, can also help document the personal items you need coverage for. Photos will also show the condition of certain items before a storm, so insurance companies cannot argue that it was not caused by the natural event.

Store Everything Safely 

Once you have your list, photos, and other important information, you need to ensure it is stored safely. Use a safe or a waterproof bag to ensure the documentation does not become damaged. If possible, store digital copies on a cloud or email them to yourself.

Call Our Residential and Commercial Property Lawyer in Daytona Beach Now 

If your property has been damaged and you need to file a claim with your insurance company, do not do it alone. At Bundza & Rodriguez, our Daytona Beach residential and commercial property lawyer can deal with the insurance company on your behalf and make sure you receive the full coverage you are entitled to. 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