The state of Florida was recently struck hard by two major hurricanes, Milton and Helene, within a matter of a couple of short weeks. Milton hit West Central Florida with 120 mph winds, a 13-foot storm surge, and 18 inches of rain – leaving 17 people dead and 3.4 million without power.
On October 11, 2024, President Biden issued a Major Disaster Declaration to provide federal disaster assistance to residents of Florida who are struggling after Hurricane Milton and Helene. This aid is provided to residents all over Florida, including those in St. Johns County.
And while this aid is certainly helpful, many Florida residents are also filing insurance claims in order to help with their numerous repairs and other costs. For those who need help filing their claim, Florin|Roebig is here to assist. Whether you need help in navigating the legal process or in understanding what is covered by your policy, we have more than 40 years of experience in this type of case and a strong dedication to our clients.
Be aware that there may be outcome delays in the claims filing process, as many insurance companies in the area have been inundated with thousands of claims at the same time. By working with a Florin|Roebig lawyer, you can expect a more timely outcome as well as the highest amount of compensation possible.
Hurricane damage lawyer Hal Weitzenfeld of Florin|Roebig states, “Hurricane Milton caused extensive damage around Florida, including in St. Johns County. To get the most out of your claim and reduce your chances of a denial, you need an experienced legal team on your side.”
What Are Your Options If Your Home Is Affected by Hurricane Milton?
First and foremost, it is important to take care of yourself and your family after living through a hurricane, as this can be a stressful and traumatizing experience. Once you are ready to move forward and take action, there are several steps you can take.
Document All Storm Damage
After you have experienced a hurricane, and especially after experiencing multiple hurricanes close together, it is very important to document the damage. You should also document the damage from each hurricane separately, as you will likely have to submit different claims for each. When documenting the damage to your property, make sure to take both photos and videos to show visuals of the extent of the damage.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible and before you make any official claims so that you have a good understanding of your policy. Have your policy ready and make sure that you have a good idea of the damages you want to report. Also, be prepared to file multiple claims for different types of damage.
Cover What You Can
You may still need to live in your home while you are waiting for compensation, so you will likely need to make some temporary repairs. This can help you to salvage your personal belongings as well as prevent even more damage from future storms. The inspector will still need to evaluate the damages to your property, however, so avoid performing full repairs at this time.
Read Your Homeowner’s Policy
Your homeowner’s policy documents can give you a good understanding of what is and isn’t covered on your property for hurricane damage. This can leave you with a good idea of what you will end up paying for the damages out of pocket versus what your insurance will cover.
Get A Damage Assessment
Your storm damage claims will need to be evaluated and verified by an insurance adjuster on your property. During this time, they should also provide you with an estimate as to the cost of your total damages. If you disagree with their assessment of your damages, it is important to speak up now.
Apply For Government Assistance
You may be eligible for different forms of government assistance and other supportive resources, such as FEMA. Local authorities in St. Augustine and St. Johns County can assist you if you are having trouble accessing these resources.
You may run into challenges during the claims filing process after Hurricane Milton, especially if you live in an area that experienced heavy damage. Working with a top quality hurricane damage lawyer can take care of much of the stress behind filing your claim, as they can make sure your paperwork is taken care of and guide you through an appeal if your claim has been denied.
What Damages Can A Hurricane Like Milton Cause?
Hurricane Milton caused a large amount of damage, both as the storm was occurring and in the days that followed. Because of this, anyone in St. Johns County filing an insurance claim for hurricane damage needs to have an understanding of how and when their property was damaged, as each insurance policy is likely to have its own guidelines and regulations.
Hurricanes can cause several different types of damage:
Wind Damage: Striking with winds of more than 120 mph, Hurricane Milton felled trees, power lines, and entire buildings and homes. Because debris still remained on the ground all over the area from Hurricane Helene, these winds and the resulting tornadoes that formed were even more dangerous.
Water Damage And Flooding: Storm surges reached more than 13 feet in some areas of Florida, causing both immediate damage and further damage from the resulting flooding that occurred. Standing water can cause heavy mold to grow as well as cause damage to floors, drywalling, and foundations.
Structural Damage: Serious structural damage can occur as a result of both high winds and flooding, and can worsen over time as homes remain unrepaired. Structural damage is not always visually obvious, however, so it is also recommended that people in Florida remain cautious when entering damaged buildings or properties.
Personal Property Damage: Wind and water damage can also devastate an individual or family’s personal belongings, both on the interior and exterior of the property. These items can include furniture, clothing, electronics, and small appliances. It is important to make note of these items in your claim, although not all of them may be covered by your insurance.
Landscaping And Exterior Property Damage: Homes and buildings are often hit with serious exterior damage during hurricanes in addition to damage on their interiors. Exteriors can include yards, decks, driveways, and patios, and may be covered by insurance in some instances.
Secondary Issues: Secondary issues are long-term issues that occur over time and long after the hurricane has ended. These issues are often the result of areas that have not been repaired and that remain subject to the elements and future storms, such as unrepaired roofs and broken windows.
Insurance companies are often known for using sly tactics to take advantage of their customers and to avoid paying out high costs, including by withholding important information about coverage. For this reason, make sure that the damages to your property have been thoroughly assessed.
You can also work with a lawyer at Florin|Roebig to ensure that your claim is approved and that you get the compensation you deserve. Our experienced attorneys are available throughout Florida and are committed to helping the victims of Hurricane Milton.
Our Featured Case Results
How Did Hurricane Milton Affect St. Augustine?
While St. Augustine was not damaged as heavily as Florida cities along the central west coast, it was still hit with heavy winds and flooding. Many of the roads and businesses in the area faced closure and thousands were left without power.
In addition to this, trees and power lines throughout the county have fallen, and residents are urged to take caution and to allow for the removal of dangerous debris. Even areas that appear safe can contain hidden dangers after a hurricane.
Returning home after an evacuation to find heavy damage to your property can be daunting, but there is help available. Florin|Roebig is here to assist and to make sure that your insurance company does not cause additional stress.
Not all types of hurricane damage are covered by insurance, so it is important to have an understanding of the different types of damage caused by hurricanes.
People in St. Augustine experienced all of the following types of damage to their property:
- Roofing damage
- Siding damage
- Damage to appliances and electronics
- Damage to personal vehicles
- Broken windows
- Damaged porch screens
- Damage to personal property
- Damage to flooring and drywall
What to Do if Your Insurance Claim Is Denied After a Hurricane
The residents of Florida and St. Augustine are already dealing with a lot of challenges and the last thing anyone wants to hear is that their insurance claim has been denied. The process of an appeal will go much smoother if you are prepared and understand why your claim has been denied. You can then act accordingly if you decide to challenge the denial.
Insurance companies may deny storm damage claims because:
- You lack evidence: you lack any visual evidence that proves that your damages were a result of Hurricane Milton of Helene.
- Your policy excludes the property or damage: the specific type of property that was damaged is not covered by your policy.
- The cause of the damage is unclear: if the inspector cannot tell what caused the damage and whether it was related to the hurricane, your claim may be denied.
If your insurance company does deny your claim, they are required to give you an explanation in writing. With this information, you can review your policy and decide if you would like to appeal. If you decide to take legal action, speak with a hurricane damage attorney as soon as possible, as they can guide you through the process and help you gather more evidence for your case. They can also make sure that your rights are protected and that all your damages have been properly assessed, while also negotiating on your behalf for the highest settlement possible. Make sure that you insurers are held accountable by working with an attorney from Florin|Roebig.
How Can a Hurricane Damage Lawyer Help?
Hiring an experienced hurricane damage attorney for your hurricane damage claim can ensure you are able to build a strong case and receive the maximum amount of compensation possible.
Florin|Roebig attorney and Miami native Hal Weitzenfeld states, “No matter how many hurricanes you have experienced, each one is unique and brings with it its own types of damage and devastation. Contact us immediately, before filing your claim, and we can make sure your rights are protected and that you get the compensation you deserve.”
These storm damage insurance claims experts can:
- Help you in building your case, including by gathering evidence, repair estimates, and testimonials from experts.
- Negotiate with insurance adjusters for a fair settlement or verdict so that you receive the compensation you are owed.
- Speak on your behalf before a judge if your case ends up in court.
Florin|Roebig has been handling hurricane damage claims for decades and knows the ins and outs involved in these types of cases. We know exactly how to get you the compensation you deserve and ensure that your insurance company never tries to take advantage of you.
We Are Nationally Awarded Lawyers
How To Get Help From Florin|Roebig Attorneys
If you are planning to file a claim or have already had your claim denied, please reach out to Florin|Roebig attorney if you are in the St. Augustine area or St. Johns County. Not only can we help you to file your claim or appeal, but we can guide you through the entire legal process, answer any questions you have, and give you peace of mind while you await compensation.
Florin|Roebig has already secured more than $1 Billion in total settlements for our clients, many of them victims of hurricanes in Florida. We recognize the urgency in filing hurricane damage claims and understand that hurricane damage victims need compensation as soon as possible in order to start rebuilding their lives.
You should never have to worry about being taken advantage of on top of all the other challenges you are facing after a hurricane. If your insurance company is not being honest with you or you need clarification, Florin|Roebig is here to help you get answers.
For more information about our legal services or to schedule a free case evaluation, Contact Florin|Roebig today.
- Fill out our online form anytime, and we’ll get back to you promptly.
- Call the phone number for your area 24/7.
- Use our chat feature day or night.