As a Florida homeowner, you purchased a homeowner’s insurance policy to protect the substantial financial investment you made in your home. You did so with the expectation and belief that your insurance company will honor its obligations under your policy and reimburse you for damage or loss if you file a claim. Unfortunately, homeowner’s insurance claims are frequently delayed, underpaid, or denied, leaving policyholders financially and emotionally devastated.

Making matter worse is the fact that most homeowners do not know where to turn when they encounter problems getting a claim paid. The good news is that as a Florida homeowner’s insurance policyholder, you do have legal rights and remedies available if a claim is not paid, in full, and in a timely fashion.

What Can I Do to Decrease the Likelihood of Problems Getting a Claim Paid?

A homeowner’s insurance policy typically covers damage and losses caused by a wide range of things, such as flooding and water damage, fire and electrical damage, wind damage, and theft or vandalism. Knowing what steps to take when you realize your home has been damaged, or you have suffered a loss, will decrease the likelihood of encountering problems getting your insurance claim paid. Although every situation is unique, the following steps will apply to most situations that necessitate filing a homeowner’s insurance claim:

1. Contact emergency services. If you believe you were the victim of a robbery or vandalism you certainly need to call the police immediately before entering your home. Contacting emergency services also applies, however, if your home was significantly damaged by water, wind, or another natural disaster because the damage may impact the electrical lines or water supply to the surrounding area.
2. Do not enter your home until you are certain it is safe to do so. Realizing your home has suffered serious damage can cause a strong emotional reaction. Your knee-jerk reaction may be to run inside and see how bad the damage is; however, you need to resist that impulse. Instead, contact local authorities (police, fire, electric company, water company) and/or a structural engineer to determine if it is safe to enter the home.
3. Mitigate further damage. Your homeowner’s insurance policy likely includes a provision that requires you to “mitigate” damages. In essence, this requires you to do what you reasonably can to prevent further damage. For example, mitigating damages might include boarding up a broken window or putting a tarp over a hole in the roof.
4. Contact your insurance company to begin the claims process. As soon as possible after discovering the damage or loss, contact your insurance company to initiate the claims process.
5. Document your damages/loss. You will probably be contacted by a claims adjuster shortly after initiating the claims process. Depending on the extent of the damage, the adjuster may visit the property. Keep in mind that the adjuster’s job is to minimize the amount paid out in claims. With that in mind, start preparing to support your claim by documenting the damage/loss. Gather receipts, appraisals, and ownership documents for damaged or stolen property. Take pictures of the damage and search for pictures showing the property prior to the damage. Obtain at least two independent estimates showing what it will cost to make the necessary repairs or replacements.

When Do I Need a Florida Homeowner’s Insurance Claim Lawyer?

If all goes well, your homeowner’s insurance company will pay your claim in full and without delay. If that does not happen, a Florida homeowner’s insurance claim lawyer can help. An experienced insurance claims lawyer can go over your policy to determine what your insurance company should cover and explain any coverage exceptions or applicable deductions to you. Your attorney will contact the insurance company on your behalf and attempt to get the claim paid in full without the need for litigation; however, if litigation becomes necessary, an experienced homeowner’s insurance claim lawyer will be your advocate in the judicial system.

Will I Need to Go to Court?

Do not make the mistake of accepting less than what your claim is worth just because the idea of litigating your claim is intimidating. Most homeowner’s insurance claim disputes are settled without the need for litigation; however, if an out-of-court settlement is not possible, your attorney may need to file a lawsuit. If that happens, having an experienced lawyer on your side will make navigating the legal system less intimidating and dramatically increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.

How Much Do Florida Homeowner’s Insurance Claim Lawyers Cost?

Not only will having an experienced lawyer on your side increase the odds of a favorable resolution of your dispute but hiring a lawyer will not cost you anything upfront. Florida homeowner’s insurance claim lawyers will only receive a fee if they successfully settle your claim or you are victorious at trial, resulting in a monetary award.

Where Can I Get Help with My Homeowner’s Insurance Claim?

If you have a Florida homeowners insurance claim that has been delayed, underpaid, or denied, we can help. Call us at 407-500-1000 or submit our online form today. One of our experienced Florida homeowner’s insurance claims lawyers will explain your rights to you and discuss your legal options at no cost.