Hurricane Property Damage Attorneys
Each fall, the Atlantic coast unfortunately experiences one too many tropical storms and hurricanes. If you have lived through one, you know how stressful and upsetting it can be after the storm hits, destroying everything in its path. With property damage, insurance claims, renovations, etc. it feels like you are drowning. That’s where we come in. Our South Carolina hurricane property damage attorneys at Anastopoulo Law Firm are here to help take some of the load. Our attorneys are ready to fight for what you deserve in the event that your insurance company is not compensating you accordingly.
Additionally, if you want to properly prepare for a hurricane to assist in increasing the chance of recovering compensation for property damage, continue reading.
Hurricane Preparation
Once you become aware of the storm and with enough time before it hits, these are some vital steps to take in order to increase your chances of a successful insurance claim.
- Confirm your insurance policy hasn’t lapsed. It is important to double-check your insurance policy is still active. Also, read through it to remind yourself of what it covers and what your deductible is. In the case that your policy has lapsed, renew it immediately.
- Get flood insurance. Most homeowners policies only cover wind and not flood damage. So, if you do not already have it, make this a top priority. Typically after a hurricane, insurance companies claim damages are due to flooding and not wind. Therefore, to prevent them from giving this reason-and to strengthen your claim-obtain a flood insurance policy.
- Photograph your property. It is important to have evidence of the interior and exterior of your property before damages to show what is different. Hence, taking wide and close-ups around your home or business will give you proof that the damage was a result of the storm. Furthermore, store this images online in the event something happens to your phone or computer.
After following these, you will be in a better position to recover money deserved and needed to get back on your feet after the hurricane.
Hurricane Recovery
- Take photos and keep a record of damages. Since you have your “before” photos, now is a great time to take the “after” photos. This will be your proof as to how much damage the hurricane caused. So, just like before, take pictures of everything and record any damage noticed. You are seeking compensation for every repair necessary and item that has been lost or damaged so pay close attention.
- Tarp your property to prevent further damage. If your property is not covered after a hurricane, your insurance company might try to use the excuse that damage occurred after the storm-placing the blame on you. To ensure they are held accountable, check the company’s “Duties After Loss” clause to verify your responsibilities and expectations to insurance company has. You want to insurance company to take care of all of the damage you suffered.
- File your insurance claim as soon as possible. Check your policy to determine the time frame you have to file a claim while also making it a top priority. The majority of individuals in your city have also suffered losses therefore, as soon as you document your damage, submit your claim.
By taking these actions, the insurance company will struggle giving reasons to deny your claim.
Why You May Need A Lawyer
As many know, insurance companies are never that simple to work with. They will delay, deny, and undervalue your claim until you get sick of fighting and cave. Some tactics include:
- Delaying processing or payment of your claim
- Debating damages being covered even if they are
- Demanding a signature on a written release of supplemental claims
- Lowballing your offer that doesn’t nearly cover all of your damages
- Attempting to get your sing-off on an unreasonable offer
If you experience any of these tactics, or others, after suffering damages from a hurricane of tropical storm, contact our South Carolina hurricane property damage attorney. One of our many experienced attorneys will fight for the compensation you deserve, while you focus on recovering from your loss.
We offer free consultation for all individuals who have experienced South Carolina hurricane property damage. Even if you have been told “no”, you might still have a case. Contact one of our attorneys today to start the process of getting your compensation.