Hurricane Milton left a trail of destruction in its wake. If your property was hit, chances are you’ve already begun navigating the long road to recovery. For most homeowners, that journey starts with the insurance claim process.
While legal assistance isn’t always required, it can make a major difference in many situations, especially when protecting your rights, avoiding costly mistakes, and securing the compensation you deserve from your insurance company.
Understanding Hurricane Milton Claims
Hurricane Milton was a major storm that struck with strong winds and heavy rainfall, causing damage to residential and commercial properties across parts of Florida. From roof damage and shattered windows to widespread water and flood damage, the storm damage led to thousands of Florida homeowners’ insurance claims being filed in days.
What Property Damage Is Typically Covered?
Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover a variety of hurricane-related losses, but many insurance companies don’t cover flood damage. Standard homeowners insurance policies cover the following:
- Wind damage to roofing, siding, and structures
- Rain and water intrusion caused by wind-driven openings
- Fallen trees and debris removal
- Interior damage resulting from broken windows or roof breaches
However, flood damage usually isn’t covered under standard homeowners’ policies. A separate flood insurance policy is required to handle rising water property damage claims.
Understanding exactly what your policy covers is the first step in filing a strong, supported Hurricane Milton damage claim.
The Hurricane Milton Insurance Claim Process
Although filing a claim may seem straightforward, the process can be more complex than expected for many Florida homeowners, especially after a large-scale disaster like Hurricane Milton.
Initial Steps
- Document the damage: Take clear, dated photos or videos of all affected areas.
- Notify your insurance company: Report the damage immediately to begin the claims process.
- Protect your property: Make temporary repairs to prevent further structural damage (e.g., tarping a roof), and keep receipts.
- Meet with an adjuster: The insurance company will likely send an insurance adjuster to inspect the damage.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Failing to document all losses thoroughly
- Making permanent repairs before the insurance adjuster’s inspection
- Missing the insurance company’s filing deadlines
- Accepting an early settlement without fully understanding what’s covered
These mistakes can reduce the amount you’re paid or result in a claim denial letter.
Do All Florida Property Owners Need Legal Assistance?
Hiring a lawyer isn’t mandatory to file a property insurance claim, but it’s often helpful, especially in complex or high-stakes situations. Here are some examples where legal help may be beneficial:
When Legal Advice Can Help
- Your claim is denied or underpaid
- Your insurance company is unresponsive or delaying the process
- There’s a dispute over whether the damage is from wind or flooding
- You’re overwhelmed by policy language or unsure how to file correctly
- Your damage is extensive and may require litigation to resolve
In these scenarios, having a hurricane insurance attorney on your side, like the team at Larry Moskowitz, PA, can increase your chances of a fair settlement.
Advantages of Legal Representation
- Policy interpretation: Lawyers understand the complex language and exclusions in insurance policies.
- Stronger documentation: Legal teams often work with independent adjusters and contractors to support your insurance claim.
- Negotiation experience: Attorneys know how to push back against lowball offers and bad faith tactics.
- Peace of mind: Having a professional handle your claim means fewer headaches and better protection of your financial interests.
How to Choose the Right Law Firm
If you seek legal representation for your hurricane insurance claim, here’s how to choose the right attorney.
Factors to Consider
- Experience with hurricanes and property insurance claims
- Willingness to hold insurance companies accountable
- Proven track record of successful settlements or verdicts
- Clear explanation of fees (look for contingency fee basis options)
- Positive reviews and testimonials from past clients
Know When to Ask for Help
Filing an insurance claim after a hurricane is never easy, and when your property, finances, and future are on the line, you want to get it right. While not everyone needs a lawyer to file a Hurricane Milton claim, having legal support can be invaluable when the process gets complicated, delayed, or denied.
If you’re unsure what your insurance provider covers, you’re facing resistance from your insurance company, or you just want peace of mind, don’t hesitate to contact us.
At Larry Moskowitz, PA, we’re here to help you navigate the claims process from start to finish. Schedule your free consultation today, and let us help you rebuild with confidence.