2023 has continued to challenge Floridians in unique ways, building on the unprecedented experiences of the past few years.
One of the most notable events of last year was Hurricane Ian, which left a lasting impact on the state. The hurricane serves as a stark reminder of Florida’s vulnerability to such natural calamities. This hurricane, unlike any in recent years, has underscored the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of increasingly severe weather patterns.
As insurance claim lawyers and meteorologists can attest, vigilance remains crucial throughout Florida because of the strong wind storms. The aftermath of a major wind storm can been a learning curve for many, emphasizing the need for experienced attorneys whose focus are wind storms.
No matter how well you prepare, it may not be possible for property owners to avoid storm damage this season.
If you’ve made an insurance claim for wind damage or flood damage and you believe your adjuster is working in bad faith to benefit the homeowner’s insurance company, our attorneys stand ready to review your case today.
If you’ve encountered wind or flood damage during the 2023 year in the Atlantic Basin, you may benefit from a free case evaluation with a damage claims attorney. Here’s how you know if a case review is right for you:
What Is A Florida Wind Damage Claims Lawyer?
Wind damage claims lawyers provide legal services to Floridians when hurricanes or high speed winds cause damage to the homes and, or personal property of Florida property owners. Areas of the state like West Palm, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Naples and Panama City are vulnerable to hurricane wind damage and flood damage due to their proximity to the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, but even more central areas like Tampa or Orlando can be affected by a hurricane.
That’s why excellent hurricane insurance claims lawyers in Florida are well-versed on Florida law, so they can operate in all areas of the state and understand the unique needs of property owners within their given municipalities. Homeowners insurance companies may operate in bad faith by hiring adjusters to ensure they payout as few claims as possible for the least amount of money. When this process results in a property damage or personal injury claim denial or small amount settlement, Florida wind damage claims attorneys may get you the claim money you deserve.
Seven Areas In Florida That Receive Frequent Wind Damage
- Miami: Miami is known for its susceptibility to hurricanes due to its coastal location and flat landscape. The city’s eastern and coastal areas, including Miami Beach and the barrier islands, are particularly vulnerable. The combination of high population density and coastal development makes Miami’s wind storm impact notably severe.
- West Palm Beach: Situated on Florida’s east coast, West Palm Beach is exposed to Atlantic hurricanes and general wind storms. The city’s coastal areas, particularly along the Intracoastal Waterway, are most at risk. Unique to West Palm Beach is its proximity to the Gulf Stream, which can intensify storms as they approach.
- Tampa: On the Gulf Coast, Tampa faces a unique risk due to its location in a wide bay. Storm surges are a significant concern here, especially in low-lying areas like Davis Islands and Bayshore Boulevard. Tampa’s geography can funnel wind and water inwards, exacerbating the effects of wind storms.
- Fort Lauderdale: This city is known for its extensive canal system, which can be a double-edged sword during wind storms. Areas along the coast and those near the canals, such as Las Olas Boulevard, are particularly prone to flooding and wind damage.
- Jacksonville: As the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, Jacksonville’s diverse geography includes coastal areas, rivers, and inland regions. Its broad expanse means that wind storms can affect different parts of the city in varying degrees, with coastal and riverfront areas being most vulnerable.
- Orlando: While inland, Orlando is not immune to wind storms. Its unique challenge comes from the widespread tourist infrastructure, including theme parks and resorts. Residential areas in the outskirts and those closer to large bodies of water like Lake Apopka can experience significant wind impacts.
- Key West: As part of the Florida Keys, Key West is extremely vulnerable to wind storms. Its isolation and position on a low-lying island make it susceptible to both high winds and storm surges. The entire island can be significantly affected, but coastal areas are at the highest risk.
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Hurricane Left You With Property Damage In Florida? Here’s What You Do:
If a Hurricane, or high speed windstorm, leaves you with property damage, follow these steps to resolve your claim:
Step 1: Understand State Laws
Whether you live in Orlando, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Panama City or Naples, it’s important to understand the laws in the state of Florida. Florida does not require hurricane wind damage insurance on houses. However, lenders require homeowners insurance to secure loans. So most homebuyers have homeowners insurance as a given in Florida.
When it comes to purchasing the right insurance, make sure your homeowner’s insurance policies includes wind damage. Windstorm damage is property damage caused by high winds. Sometimes this includes water damage as well, if the water damage can be proven to be as a result of the windstorm creating an opening in the home’s infrastructure and allowing rain to get in.
Some parts of Florida require that property owners who purchase insurance coverage include separate coverage for flood damage. Location determines flood damage insurance necessity and those geographic zones can be located on the FEMA website.
Step 2: Document Wind Damage
When it’s safe to do so it’s important to document all hurricane damage. Wind damage might include things like roof damage and missing shingles from strong winds, objects obstructing parts of the home, or other damage caused by forceful wind. Hurricane damage claims should be submitted right away, including photo evidence of damage. If damage degrades or gets worse over time, documenting further damage may be necessary.
Step 3: Document Water Damage
In addition to hurricane damage caused by wind, it’s important to document water damage, whether you have a separate flood insurance policy in your homeowner’s insurance policy. That’s because when heavy rain is associated with wind, damage to the structural integrity of your home can cause secondary flooding that falls under the umbrella of windstorm damage.
Coastal cities like Panama City and Naples have to worry about the additional threat of storm surges causing flooding that may not be covered by their insurance policy. When making a hurricane insurance claim, having thorough and detailed descriptions of damage with photos can make the complicated and stressful claim process work smoothly and more efficiently.
Step 4: Review Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy
It’s a good practice to review your homeowner’s insurance policy every year, just before the beginning of Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season. This can help you avoid getting stuck Googling FAQs when you’re under the duress of roof damage from a hurricane.
Most people who own homes in Florida have some kind of insurance policy that includes windstorm damage from the get go. Policyholders should determine if you have additional coverage, like flood damage coverage, and what the limits are for things like personal property and personal injury, preferable sooner than later. But if you haven’t reviewed your policy lately, do it before you submit your claim.
Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company
After reviewing your Florida homeowner’s insurance policy, call or email your insurance company to ask any additional questions and find out the best way to submit your claim.
Step 6: Make An Insurance Claim
Finally, submit all necessary property damage claims to your insurance provider. You can expect a standard policy in Florida to cover structural damage caused by strong winds, In some cases, policies cover personal injury. What’s covered varies by property insurance policy.
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Florin|Roebig For Floridians
Floridians, insurance claim lawyers at Florin|Roebig are standing by to help you with a free case evaluation if you’ve been struck by a hurricane that caused wind or flood damage. Homeowner’s insurance companies have adjusters working to ensure they pay as little as possible to customers. Unfortunately, that sometimes results in bad faith claim denials and settlements.
Property owners, if you believe you’ve been the victim of a bad faith claim determination, don’t wait to call Florin|Roebig for a case review. Storm damage and damaged property can have a devastating impact on your home, family and overall health. Get a free consultation today from the law firm of Florin|Roebig. Call now.
