Clermont, located in Lake County about 20 miles west of Orlando, has a population of 43,021, according to 2020 Census data. Hurricane Milton struck the area with intense winds, rain, and flooding, leaving thousands of residents without power and causing widespread property damage. Statewide, the storm resulted in at least 24 confirmed deaths and left many facing extensive, sometimes overwhelming, damage to their homes and property.
For residents dealing with property damage, filing a claim with their homeowner’s insurance is often the first step toward compensation. However, navigating the complexities of insurance claims can be overwhelming—that’s where the experienced attorneys at Florin|Roebig can help.
With nearly 40 years of experience and a track record of securing over $1 billion in compensation, Florin|Roebig’s board-certified attorneys are here to assist. Contact us today for a free consultation and guidance on your hurricane damage insurance claim.
Attorney Hal Weitzenfeld shares, “We’ve seen the devastating impact of Florida hurricanes firsthand. We aim to make the claims process as smooth as possible for you during this difficult time.”
What Are Your Options If Your Home Is Affected By Hurricane Milton?
If you’re a Clermont resident facing the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, your next steps are critical. Prioritize your health and that of your loved ones, then turn your attention to addressing the damage to your property.
Document All Storm Damage
If evacuation orders kept you away, wait until authorities allow a safe return before assessing your property. Once permitted, document any visible damage to your home and property. Documentation is essential for insurance claims, providing clear evidence to support your request for coverage. Take extensive photos and videos of damaged areas, which can be invaluable if you need to escalate the claim or pursue legal action later.
Make Temporary Repairs Where Possible
After documenting the damage, consider making temporary repairs to prevent further deterioration. Quick patches can protect your home and belongings from additional harm and may make the space more livable until permanent repairs are feasible.
Review Your Homeowner’s Policy
Once you’ve assessed and documented the damage, review your homeowner’s policy thoroughly to understand your coverage. Familiarizing yourself with the policy’s details, including deductibles and covered damage types, can clarify what you’re entitled to and prepare you for the claims process.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
With documentation and policy details in hand, contact your insurance provider to initiate a claim. Filing promptly is essential, as claims often have a limited submission window after an incident. Having documentation and policy information readily available can streamline the process.
Get a Damage Assessment
Your insurance company will likely assign an adjuster to assess the damages documented in your claim. Be present during this inspection to ensure all damage is noted and accurately estimated. If you believe the estimates are low, don’t hesitate to voice your concerns or seek a second opinion if necessary.
Apply for Government Assistance
In addition to insurance, government assistance may be available to help cover storm-related costs. Check Clermont and Lake County’s websites and social media for information on FEMA (800-621-3362) and other assistance programs that can support your recovery. Residents can request free roof tarp assistance through the Blue Roof Program (1-888-ROOF-BLU).
Consider Hiring a Hurricane Damage Lawyer
Insurance claims can be challenging, especially with the surge of claims following a major storm. Having an expert advocate can make a difference. The experienced attorneys at Florin|Roebig are ready to guide you through the process, protecting your rights and helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
What Damages Can A Hurricane Like Milton Cause?
A powerful storm like Hurricane Milton can have devastating impacts on homes, property, and the well-being of Florida residents. To maximize your insurance claim and secure the compensation you’re entitled to, it’s crucial to understand the types of potential damage and how they affect your claim.
Some damage may not be immediately visible, so conducting a thorough inspection is essential to ensure all issues are documented and included in your claim.
Here are some common types of damage Hurricane Milton may have caused:
Water Damage and Flooding: Heavy rain and flooding have caused many homes and other kinds of property to experience flooding and water damage. The water can damage not only the foundation of your home but also your belongings and eventually lead to mold growth.
Wind Damage: Extreme winds such as those from Hurricane Milton could have also caused damage to your house. This is because the high-force winds and resulting tornadoes can cause debris and other dangerous items to damage your home.
Structural Damage: Structural damage may be harder to identify at first glance, so it’s important to proceed with caution when entering a building that appears to be standing following a hurricane. Torn walls, roof damage, and a weakened foundation are all forms of structural damage that could occur.
Landscaping and External Damage: Exterior structures and your yard may have also incurred damage from the storm. With little to no protection from the elements, even if your home seemed to make it through, your external property may have suffered damages.
Personal Property Damage: The storm may also damage personal property such as furniture, clothing, electronics, and other meaningful/valuable possessions. Be sure to note this and consider what may be covered under your insurance policy.
Secondary Damage: Secondary damages can occur after the storm due to flooding and exposure to the harsh environment. These damages may also be covered, so be sure to review your policy and include them in your claim.
Understanding the full extent of storm damage can be overwhelming. That’s where Florin|Roebig can make a difference. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you identify all damages, ensuring they’re properly documented so you receive the compensation you deserve.
“At Florin|Roebig, we know how to build a comprehensive, well-supported claim,” says attorney Hal Weitzenfeld. “Our team is ready to help you organize your evidence and secure the payout you’re entitled to.”
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How Did Hurricane Milton Affect Clermont?
Hurricane Milton impacted much of Lake County, including Clermont, leading to the closure of city facilities, buildings, parks, boat ramps, and schools. The city initiated sandbag operations and opened shelters to assist residents. Due to anticipated impacts from Hurricane Milton, Lake County issued a Voluntary Evacuation Order for residents living in manufactured homes, RVs, mobile homes, and low-lying or flood-prone areas.
Lake County saw up to 12 inches of rainfall, resulting in flooding in low-lying areas and ditches along roadways. Downed power lines and trees, power outages, non-functional traffic lights, damaged docks, and extensive debris created numerous challenges for Clermont residents. Road closures and standing water further complicated travel. As of October 14, 2024, Duke Energy had restored power to most of the community. To support recovery, the city waived permit requirements for minor roof, siding, and fencing repairs, as well as for the removal of storm-damaged trees through November 30.
What To Do If Your Insurance Claim Is Denied After A Hurricane
Coping with hurricane aftermath can be stressful, overwhelming, and emotionally taxing. Florin|Roebig is here to ease the burden by guiding you through the claims process and ensuring your insurance company fulfills its obligations. Despite the premiums we pay, insurers don’t always prioritize their clients, especially when managing a high volume of claims after natural disasters. In many cases, their focus on protecting the bottom line can lead to delayed or reduced payouts.
If your insurance company does any of the following things, contact Florin|Roebig law firm immediately:
- Your adjuster will not pick up the phone, gives you the wrong number, or does not return your calls.
- You are given a settlement offer that is not enough to repair the damage done to your property.
- Your insurer says the damage is worth less than your deductible amount.
- Your insurance claim is denied.
- Your insurance claim is accepted, but the process is taking too long or your insurer is delaying payment.
- Your insurer claims that you need a separate flood insurance policy to cover the damages.
At Florin|Roebig, our lawyers have years of experience and know the ins and outs of hurricane insurance claims. Our job is to be your voice and ensure you are treated with the respect and compassion you deserve.
How Can A Hurricane Damage Lawyer Help?
Hiring a hurricane damage lawyer like the reputable and reliable team at Florin|Roebig ensures you have an experienced professional on your side during the sometimes tumultuous insurance claim filing process.
Our Florida-based property damage lawyers can help by:
- Helping to collect evidence including repair estimates, expert opinions, and pictures and videos to bolster your claim
- Negotiate the maximum compensation under your insurance policy and get into the weeds of insurance company jargon
- Represent you in court if your company does not comply
Florin|Roebig is well-versed in the tactics insurance companies may use to delay or minimize payouts. Let us take the lead and ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
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How To Get Help From Florin|Roebig Attorneys
The attorneys at Florin|Roebig offer free consultations to help you determine if hiring a lawyer is the best choice for your situation. After a disaster like Hurricane Milton or Hurricane Helene, you deserve fair compensation. You pay your insurance premiums—now it’s time for your insurer to fulfill their commitment.
Contact Florin|Roebig today to discuss your case or schedule a free evaluation.
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