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Water Damage Insurance Claims

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With over 30 years of combined experience, Jenkins Law P.L. is the #1 Tampa water damage insurance claims lawyer boasting thousands of satisfied clients.

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Water Damage Insurance Claims

When it comes to dealing with water damage, one crucial aspect to consider is the average insurance payout for water damage. Homeowners often rely on their insurance policies to help cover the costs associated with repairing and restoring their properties after water-related incidents. The average insurance payout for water damage varies depending on several factors, such as the severity of the damage, the type of insurance coverage, and the individual policy terms.

Insurance companies typically assess the extent of the water damage and evaluate the expenses required for repairs, including structural damage, mold remediation, and replacing damaged belongings. It is important for homeowners to thoroughly review their insurance policies and understand the coverage details to ensure they receive a fair and appropriate insurance payout for water damage. Additionally, documenting the damage with photographs and contacting the insurance company promptly can help facilitate the claims process and potentially expedite the payout.

What Types of Water Damage Are Covered by the Average Homeowner’s Insurance Policy?

Water damage can have devastating and costly consequences for homeowners. However, it’s important to recognize that the types of water damage covered by standard homeowner’s policies can vary. This often comes as a surprise to homeowners who discover that their insurance policy doesn’t provide coverage for all forms of water damage. Let’s delve into the types of damage that are typically covered by homeowners’ insurance policies.

Most homeowners’ policies offer coverage for water damage resulting from sudden and accidental events such as burst pipes or overflowing washers. Unfortunately, they usually exclude coverage for water damage caused by gradual events like leaks. Moreover, there are often limits to the extent of coverage provided for water damage.

While it is true that most homeowners insurance policies do cover water damage, it’s crucial to note that each policy may differ in terms of coverage specifics. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the extent to which your policy covers water damage, it is advisable to contact your insurance company or agent.

Common Water Damage Insurance Policy Exclusions in Florida

You should be aware that certain insurance policies may exclude coverage for water damage. Typically, damage resulting from natural disasters such as tornadoes and hurricanes is not covered. Similarly, damage caused by flooding is typically excluded as well. However, it’s important to note that there can be exceptions to these general rules.

In addition, most policies do not cover damages caused by seepage, leakage, or similar issues. If you have concerns regarding these specific types of damages, it is recommended to consult with your insurer to determine if your policy provides coverage for them.

Associated Costs Of Water Damage

Jenkins Law regularly provides solutions for clients in Florida who have experienced water damage and are having trouble getting proper coverage from insurance companies. Water damage insurance claims can be complicated and exhausting. You’ll need legal assistance from an experienced legal team dedicated to helping you get what you properly deserve after experiencing water damage to your property.

An inch of water can cause $25,000 in damage, according to ConsumerReports.org. Imagine you’re an insurance company and a thousand homes in a place like the Bay Area have been flooded. That’s a payout of $25 million dollars. Insurance companies will try to limit payouts due to water damage insurance claims.

They’ll pay less than what policyholders should receive under their plan, award coverage settlements much later than they should, and outright deny coverage when it is legitimately guaranteed by a given policy. Jenkins Law has seen such scenarios many times in the past, specifically pertaining to multiple insurance companies. This has allowed us to develop key strategies and skills when dealing with attorneys and insurance adjusters. Insurance companies hire to diminish settlements in their favor through tactics such as low-balling and paying policyholders late.

All these scenarios require an insurance claims lawyer. Jenkins Law P.L. has helped many clients sidestep such underhanded techniques from insurance companies. Our focus is on the areas of property damage like those which come from unexpected water damage.

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Methods For Handling Water Damage Insurance Claims

Jenkins Law advises keeping certified copies of your insurance contract available and requesting them initially upon starting a new contract. Contracts include provisions for mold, responsibility limitations, and other coverage considerations which are oftentimes deliberately obscured so policyholders don’t realize they aren’t as covered as they thought when a disaster occurs. Water damage insurance claims involve many factors, and Jenkins Law can help you ensure contracts are properly comprehensive.

After a water damage incident, mitigation should immediately begin. Jenkins Law P.L. advises visual documentation of damage using photography and video as possible. You should also request insurance adjusters use moisture mapping technology like thermal or infrared imaging. This more comprehensively reveals the scope of water damage on your property. If your insurance company doesn’t have an adjuster who will do this, Jenkins Law can help you find local public adjusters who can.

It’s important to get multiple estimates that insurance companies have no influence over. When $25k or more is on the line, you need multiple opinions. We suggest getting more than one separate estimate from qualified adjusters and contractors. One could include your insurance agency, but it’s better to have estimates unrelated to your insurers.

Water Damage Insurance Claims: The Most Common Causes in Florida

Florida is renowned for its severe storms and hurricanes, which often lead to water damage. It is common for insurance companies to include water damage coverage in their policies to protect property owners.

In Florida, the most frequent causes of water damage insurance claims are as follows:

  • Hurricanes and severe weather
  • Roof or window leaks
  • Flooding caused by rivers, lakes, or storm surges
  • Pipes or appliances that have broken down
  • Sewer backups

Contact your insurance company immediately if your home or office has been affected by water. You will be able to determine if your home or business is covered and what steps you need to take to file a claim.

What Is Gradual Damage and How It Could Impact Your Water Damage Insurance Claim?

It’s crucial to understand the various types of damages that can occur when filing an insurance claim for water damage. Dealing with water damage can be challenging, as it is often hard to detect, and there is a possibility that your insurance policy may not provide coverage for it. If you are facing a water damage claim, it is advisable to seek guidance from an insurance dispute attorney. They can assist you in comprehending your insurance policy and determining your eligibility for compensation.

You may not be eligible for compensation if you suffer from any of the following causes:

  • Over time, leaks in the pipes, faucets, or plumbing system can cause damage to walls and ceilings.
  • A basement that has water leaking through cracks can cause dampness.
  • Rust, mold, or other rottenness
  • Old wires
  • Lack of maintenance or poor repairs

You may not know the reason why your claim has been rejected. If you submitted a claim but it was found that the damage occurred gradually, you may have been denied.

Expert Tips on Filing an Insurance Claim for Water Damage in Florida

You may wonder what you should do if you live in Florida and your property has suffered from water damage. Our Florida insurance attorneys can make the claim process as easy as possible.

Document the damage as thoroughly as possible by creating a comprehensive list and capturing photos or videos of the affected areas. This documentation will serve as valuable evidence to support your claim with your insurance company. It is essential to contact your insurer promptly after the damage occurs, as there may be specific procedures to follow when making a claim. Act swiftly and seek the assistance of an expert if necessary.

Be prepared to negotiate with your insurer regarding your policy. Our team of water damage attorneys in Florida will ensure that you are not taken advantage of by insurance companies that may try to underpay you. Remember your rights and reach out to a Florida insurance lawyer if you are facing obstacles or denials from your insurance company. A lawyer can protect your rights and work towards obtaining the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Insurance Claims for Water Damage Are Denied Due to the Following Reasons

Did you know that insurance companies frequently deny claims for water damage in Florida? A recent study found that nearly 60% of water damage claims were rejected. Various factors contribute to these denials, but the most common ones include:

1) Failing to File a Claim for Water Damage

Insurance companies in Florida are obligated to have a claims procedure in place, which grants policyholders the opportunity to file a claim within a designated timeframe. If a policyholder fails to submit the claim within the specified period, the insurance company will probably deny the claim.

2) Water Damage Caused by an Act of Nature

For instance, a hurricane can result in damage to a home’s water system. Nevertheless, a standard homeowners policy typically does not cover such damage. Insurance companies are likely to deny claims if the damage is attributed to a natural disaster.

3) Insufficient Coverage on the Policy

Water damage may not always be covered by insurance. This can occur if the policy specifically excludes such types or amounts of damage. If the policyholder lacks adequate coverage to address the damages, the insurance company will likely deny the claim.

4) Policyholder Files Multiple Claims Within a Short Timeframe

The insurance company has the authority to deny a water damage claim in certain situations, particularly when the policyholder submits multiple claims within a brief timeframe. The insurance company may perceive the policyholder as high-risk or deem them ineligible for coverage. Therefore, if a policyholder files multiple claims within a short period, it is probable that the insurance company will deny their claim.

How to Dispute an Insurance Claim That Was Denied or Not Paid Enough in Florida

If you have encountered water damage in Florida and your insurance claim has been denied or underpaid, you may be unsure of what steps to take. Fortunately, there are several actions you can pursue to contest a denied insurance claim.

First and foremost, reach out to your insurance company to provide a clear explanation of the situation and express your concerns. If you remain dissatisfied with their response, it may be advisable to seek the assistance of a water damage lawyer who can guide you through the process and advocate for your rights.

Additionally, you have the option to file a formal complaint with the Florida Department of Financial Services, which can further address your grievances and aid in resolving the issue.

What Should You Do if You Find Water Damage in Your Florida Home?

You should follow these steps if you notice water damage to your Florida home:

1. Turn off the Water

Shut off the water immediately if you notice water damage on your Florida property. It will minimize any damage caused by water, and also prevent further damage.

2. Contact a Plumber

Call a plumber if you notice any signs of water damage in your plumbing. The plumber will be able to fix any leaks, or broken pipes as well as prevent further damage.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as you can after you have dealt with the immediate problems. You can file a claim with them and they will begin the process to restore your home to its original state.

Getting Water Damage Coverage In Florida

When it comes to dealing with water damage in Florida, particularly in the western regions along the Gulf, finding the appropriate attorney is of utmost importance. A skilled and knowledgeable lawyer can make all the difference when it comes to obtaining adequate coverage for your water damage insurance claim.

Florida is known for its vulnerability to hurricanes, heavy rainfalls, and flooding, which can cause significant damage to homes and properties. In such situations, having proper insurance coverage is crucial to protect your investment and ensure that you can recover from any water-related disasters.

When faced with a flooded kitchen or bathroom, the consequences can be devastating. Not only can it lead to severe structural damage, but it can also result in the loss of personal belongings, furniture, and sentimental items. In these distressing circumstances, having a competent attorney who specializes in water damage claims can be your lifeline.

An experienced water damage attorney will understand the complexities of insurance policies and the legal intricacies involved in filing a claim. They can assist you in navigating through the often complex and bureaucratic process, ensuring that you receive the maximum compensation for your losses. They will review your insurance policy, assess the extent of the damage, gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and advocate on your behalf.

Contact Jenkins Law P.L. for More Information About Water Damage Insurance Claims

At Jenkins Law P.L., we offer solutions for water damage insurance claims where insurance groups are denying coverage, delaying coverage fulfillment, or delivering less than their contracts promise. Additionally, we can help you determine if you have a case for a lawsuit that may increase what insurance companies must pay out for property damages. For a free consultation, contact us at (866) 668 – 4182 today.

BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION NOW!

In a hurry? Call us now at (866) 668-4182