[Photo by Branden Ryba on Unsplash]

Windstorms can cause a lot of damage to homes and properties. 

If your property gets damaged by a windstorm, it’s important to know how to get the money you need from your insurance company. 

Our attorneys have explained the steps you should take to file an insurance claim for windstorm-related structural damage below! We’ll also give you simple guidelines to help you with the claim process and repairs.

Take Pictures and Make a List:

After a windstorm, take pictures or videos of the damaged areas on your property. Capture the damage from different angles, including close-ups and wider shots. Make a list of all the things that got damaged, like furniture, fixtures, and personal items. Having clear evidence of the damage will help with your insurance claim.

Read Your Insurance Policy:

Read your insurance policy carefully to understand what it covers and what it doesn’t cover when it comes to windstorm damage. Pay attention to things like the amount you need to pay before the insurance kicks in (called the deductible), the maximum amount they will pay (called limits), and any specific rules you need to follow to file a windstorm claim. Knowing your policy will help you follow the right steps.

Tell Your Insurance Company:

As soon as possible, contact your insurance company to let them know about the windstorm damage. Tell them exactly what happened and how bad the damage is. Keep track of everyone you talk to and write down their names. They will give you a claim number, which you should keep for reference.

Get a Professional Opinion:

It’s a good idea to hire an expert contractor or engineer who knows about windstorm damages. They can inspect your property and give you a detailed report about the damage. This report will show what needs to be fixed and how much it will cost. Having a professional assessment will make your claim stronger.

Work with the Insurance Adjuster:

After you file your claim, the insurance company will send an adjuster to look at the damage and decide how much money they will give you. Be helpful and show them all the documents you have, like the pictures and the professional report. Be there when they check your property so you can point out the damage. This will help them understand everything better.

Keep Track of Expenses:

While your claim is being processed, keep a record of all the money you spend because of the windstorm damage. This includes repair estimates, invoices, receipts for temporary repairs, and any extra money you need to live somewhere else. These records will help you show the insurance company how much you should be compensated.

Get Help from a Property Damage Lawyer:

If you have any problems or disagreements with the insurance company during the claim process, you might want to talk to a lawyer who specializes in property damage and insurance claims. The attorneys at Flores & Pelaez-Prada can give you expert advice and speak for you to make sure you get the right amount of money for the windstorm damage.

Dealing with damage from a windstorm can be tough, but by following these simple guidelines, you can increase your chances of getting the money you need from your insurance company. 

If you’re dealing with an underpaid or denied claim, contact us immediately to help with your case: 877-890-6372.