Hurricane Helene swept through Florida with force, leaving homes, businesses, and lives upended. In the aftermath, thousands of property owners filed insurance claims, hoping their coverage would help rebuild what was lost. Unfortunately, for many, the response was far from helpful: denied claims, delayed payments, or settlements that fell short of covering the actual cost of the damage.
At Larry Moskowitz, PA, we assist property owners in pursuing justice for hurricane property damage claims. Here’s what you need to know about filing a claim, protecting your rights, and pursuing compensation before the clock runs out.
Hurricane Helene: A Powerful Hurricane
Hurricane Helene caused significant property damage across Florida, with widespread reports of:
- Roof and siding destruction due to sustained winds
- Flood damage and water stains from storm surge and heavy rainfall
- Broken windows, damaged vehicles, and fallen trees
- Structural damage and wind uplift damage to homes, buildings, and foundations
- Mold and interior water damage due to delayed repairs
Even now, many property owners are still working through the recovery process, and some are only now realizing that their insurance claims have not been handled fairly. When you pay into your homeowner’s insurance policy, you expect a fair settlement after hurricane damage, but that isn’t always the case.
Is There Still Time to File Hurricane-Related Claims?
The answer depends on Florida’s statute of limitations, which sets a legal deadline for filing a lawsuit with your insurance company.
As of recent legal reforms, Florida now provides a two-year statute of limitations for property insurance claims related to hurricane damage. That means if your home or business was damaged by Hurricane Helene, you may have up to two years from the date of loss to take legal action.
But don’t wait until the deadline to file a Hurricane Helene damage claim is approaching. Building a case takes time, especially if you’re dealing with a denied or underpaid claim.
Typical Hurricane Property Damages That May Warrant Legal Action
Insurance policies should cover most of the major property damage caused by hurricanes, assuming you’ve met all policy obligations. Generally, covered losses of your property damage claim may include:
- Wind damage to roofs, siding, fences, and windows
- Rainwater intrusion from wind-damaged openings
- Structural collapse or foundational issues caused by storm impact
- Interior damage to flooring, drywall, and insulation
- Temporary housing costs if your home becomes uninhabitable
However, flood damage is often excluded unless you carry a separate flood insurance policy, potentially preventing you from receiving a high and fair payout. Disputes with your insurance company over whether damage was caused by a flood or wind are among the most common reasons for denied insurance claims and often serve as the basis for seeking legal support from an experienced attorney.
Legal Steps to Initiate a Property Damage Claim or Lawsuit
If your insurance company has denied your claim for Hurricane Helene damage, here are the steps to take:
- Review your policy to identify what’s covered and what conditions apply.
- Request a written explanation of any denial or undervaluation.
- Gather documentation: Photos, repair estimates, receipts, correspondence, and inspection reports.
- Consult a hurricane claims attorney to evaluate your case and legal options.
- File a notice of intent to litigate—a required step before initiating legal action in Florida.
- File the lawsuit if the insurer doesn’t resolve your claim after the notice period.
With legal representation, these steps are handled on the homeowner’s behalf, saving time, reducing stress, and increasing your chances of a favorable outcome.
Potential Legal Challenges Many Homeowners Face
Pursuing legal action is not always straightforward. Common challenges include:
- Insurers denying responsibility by blaming flood damage or pre-existing issues
- Lack of proper documentation and compelling evidence to support the claim
- Missed deadlines for appeals or litigation
- Confusion over policy terms and deductibles
Working with an experienced attorney helps you avoid these pitfalls and build a strong, well-documented case. At Larry Moskowitz, PA, we’ve helped countless Floridians successfully challenge insurers and recover the compensation they were owed.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
If your home or business was damaged by Hurricane Helene and your insurance company has failed to uphold their end of the deal, there may still be time to take legal action regarding the claims process, but that window won’t stay open forever.
At Larry Moskowitz, PA, we offer free consultations and handle claims on a contingency fee basis. That means no upfront costs and no risk in exploring your options.
Contact us today to find out if your Hurricane Helene claim qualifies for legal action. Let’s get you the resolution you deserve.