When storms strike St. Petersburg, the damage can leave homeowners with shattered roofs, water damage, downed trees, and perpetual stress. If you’re faced with storm damage, your homeowner’s insurance will cover repairs, but receiving the maximum payout you deserve isn’t always easy.
Step-by-Step Guide to Ensure You Get the Most Out of Your Storm Damage Insurance Claim
1. Record Everything Right Away
Take pictures and videos of the damage before you move or fix anything. Take wide-angle shots and close-ups of:
- Roof damage
- Water intrusion
- Damaged property
- Downed trees or debris
- Document undamaged areas as well to provide the “before and after” condition.
2. Report the Damage Immediately
Most insurance policies have you report claims promptly, sometimes within a few days. Delaying can give your insurer grounds to deny or underpay your claim.
Call your insurance company or file the claim online. Have:
- Your policy number
- The date of the storm
- A short description of the damage
3. Take Temporary Repairs to Avoid Further Damage
Insurance policies usually require you to avoid further damage. That is:
- Tarping roof leaks
- Boarding broken windows
- Taking out wet carpet or drywall to prevent mold
- Keep all receipts—you may be paid back for emergency repairs.
4. Obtain Independent Repair Estimates
Don’t count on your insurance company’s adjuster. Get a licensed local contractor in St. Petersburg to give their estimate. This provides you with a truer estimate of the actual repair cost and negotiating power if the insurer’s bid is low.
5. Keep a Paper Trail
Track every communication with your insurance company, adjuster, and contractors. Save emails, texts, voicemails, and letters. Take notes during phone calls and ask for written confirmation of important statements or decisions.
6. Don’t Accept the First Offer Without Review
First insurance payments tend to be less than what’s required to get your home back in shape. Carefully review the offer. Compare it with your repair estimates and ensure it covers all damage, including hidden or future damage such as mold growth or structural damage.
This post was written by Kelly-Ann Jenkins of Jenkins Law P.L. Kelly-Ann is an insurance claim Lawyer. The information on this site is not intended to and does not offer legal advice, legal recommendations, or legal representation on any matter. Hiring an attorney is an important decision, which should not be based on advertising. You need to consult an attorney for legal advice regarding your situation.
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