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Florida homeowners deal with a unique set of risks due to the state’s exposure to hurricanes, flooding, and other extreme weather conditions. Because of this, having the right insurance coverage is essential. One of the most important steps a homeowner can take is to document their property before a storm hits. Doing so can help avoid disputes and speed up the claims process if damage occurs.
Hurricanes and severe storms often lead to billions of dollars in damages. Unfortunately, many homeowners struggle with their insurance companies over payouts. Insurance adjusters will inspect properties after a storm, but having your own proof of your home’s condition before the storm can strengthen your claim.
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Justice Family Lawyers advises homeowners to take photos and videos before a storm arrives. “If you think your home is in danger, take pictures and videos of everything—inside and out. This can speed up your claim, minimize disputes, and ensure you get the highest payout possible.”
Without clear documentation, insurers may claim that the damage was not caused by the storm, potentially lowering the amount they will pay.
In Florida, standard homeowners’ insurance policies often exclude coverage for some natural disasters. Because of this, residents need to ensure they have the right policies in place. Here are the most important types of insurance for Florida homeowners:
A basic homeowners insurance policy covers damage from fire, theft, and vandalism. However, it does not always cover hurricane damage or flooding. Popular insurance companies that provide homeowners insurance in Florida include:
Because hurricanes frequently hit Florida, many insurers require homeowners to purchase separate windstorm policies. These cover damage caused by strong winds and are important since standard policies often have high hurricane deductibles. Some companies that specialize in hurricane insurance include:
Flooding is one of the most destructive disasters in Florida, yet standard homeowners’ policies do not cover it. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers government-backed flood insurance, while private companies such as Neptune Flood and TypTap Insurance provide customized policies.
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Certain areas of Florida, such as Tampa and Ocala, have a high risk of sinkholes. Some homeowners’ policies offer limited coverage, but comprehensive sinkhole insurance is often necessary. Companies that offer this coverage include:
This type of insurance provides extra liability coverage beyond the limits of a standard policy. Since Florida has a high rate of property-related lawsuits, having umbrella insurance can help protect homeowners from financial losses if they face legal claims.
Property claims attorneys help homeowners receive fair compensation from their insurance companies. They look at several key areas when reviewing policies:
Some policies exclude certain damages. For example, insurers may refuse to pay for water damage caused by a storm surge but will cover damage from direct rainfall. Attorneys often challenge these exclusions if they seem unfair.
Many Florida homeowners don’t realize they have separate deductibles for hurricane damage, which can be much higher than their standard deductible. Attorneys check policies to ensure insurers apply the correct deductible amount.
Insurance companies sometimes offer payouts that don’t fully cover repair costs. In some cases, attorneys find that homeowners receive settlements that are far too low. They compare insurance offers with independent repair estimates to make sure homeowners get fair compensation.
Some insurance companies delay or deny claims without a valid reason. If an insurer refuses to investigate a claim or ignores submitted evidence, attorneys may argue that the company is acting in bad faith. In these cases, homeowners may be entitled to additional compensation.
Many Florida homeowners have struggled with insurance claims after hurricanes. Here are three examples of common issues faced by residents in Tampa, Sarasota, Naples, and Marco Island:
After Hurricane Ian, a homeowner in Marco Island discovered severe roof damage. When they filed a claim, the insurance company argued that the damage was caused by “wear and tear” rather than the storm. The homeowner’s attorney presented pre-storm photos that showed the roof was in perfect condition. After a legal battle, the insurer was forced to pay for a full roof replacement.
A Tampa homeowner experienced severe interior flooding after a hurricane. The insurance company initially denied the claim, arguing that the flooding was caused by groundwater rather than storm surge. Attorneys used meteorological reports and expert testimony to prove that storm surge caused the damage. As a result, the insurer was required to pay the full amount.
A Sarasota homeowner suffered major wind damage to their property. Their insurance company offered only $12,000 for repairs, even though independent contractors estimated the cost at $55,000. With legal assistance, the homeowner was able to negotiate an additional $43,000 from the insurer.
Having the right insurance is critical for Florida homeowners. To ensure a smooth claims process, homeowners should:
By staying prepared and informed, Florida homeowners can protect their properties, finances, and peace of mind in the event of a disaster.
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