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Hurricane Irma has finally passed and left us to clean up the mess. Make sure it is safe to return to your home before beginning the damage cleanup and filing an insurance claim.

Issues for Filing an Insurance Claim

Because of the extensive damage Hurricane Irma has caused throughout Florida, many property owners will be dealing with similar issues. One concern you will have to face is whether your insurance policy will provide enough coverage for the damage. Even though you pay your monthly premium, it can be a long, drawn-out process to get a fair settlement after filing an insurance claim.

Another thing to keep in mind during major catastrophes like Hurricane Irma is the large amount of people contacting their insurance companies. Due to the widespread needs and high volume of claims, the time and resources of the insurance companies are spread thin. Therefore, they will be flying in teams from all over the country to help process claims. That’s why you should consider hiring a public adjuster like Aftermath Adjusters as quickly as possible to help you get a fair settlement.

Steps to File an Insurance Claim

To help ensure that you accurately file your insurance claim, follow these steps:

Early Steps

  • Before you begin inspecting the damage, confirm that the property is safe for re-entry. If you notice standing water, do not enter until an electrician has turned off the power.
  • Contact Aftermath Adjusters as soon as possible to file a claim. It is crucial that you do not begin any repairs, cleanup, or throw anything out until you get in touch with our team.  We will then help contact your insurance provider.
  • Ask for a copy of your policy if you don’t already have access to one. This will allow you to check for covered disasters, your responsibilities, and coverage amounts. Having this copy will help Aftermath know how to help you best.
  • Keep a record of the damage done to the building and personal items. If possible, make a list of the dates of purchase, values, and receipts.
  • If your home is unfit to live in, stay somewhere safe and keep track of any living expenses. It is important to keep the receipts for reimbursement. This is known as “ALE” or Additional Living Expenses coverage.

Inspection

  • Take plenty of videos and photos before and during the building inspection. Examples of what to document include structural damage, cleanable items, standing flood levels of water in the house, and damaged personal property.  This is one of the areas our team will also be helpful.
  • Ask for copies of all reports and estimates from the insurance adjuster.
  • A “Proof of Loss” can be filed once the ALE and damage done to the property and personal belongings have been assessed. This is the official statement of the amount you are claiming for damages, along with any essential documentation. Be sure to review it for mistakes!

Initial Cleanup

  • If the roof has been damaged, have a licensed contractor install tarps to protect the home or business from further damage.
  • Hire only licensed contractors. Do not sign a contract with them that has an “assignment of benefits,“ or AOB clause. This clause gives all the benefits and rights of your insurance claim to the contractor, and you won’t see any of it.

Contact Aftermath Adjusters

If you feel that your insurance company is not being fair, or if the process is too stressful, don’t worry. You can hire your Licensed Florida Public Adjuster,  Aftermath Adjusters to assist. We work directly for you, not the insurance company, and handle every aspect of your claim. We will meet with your contractors, insurance adjuster, and anyone else affiliated with your claim. Our goal is to negotiate the best possible compensation for your damaged property.

If Hurricane Irma affected your home or business, give us a call at 954-329-2456. We can answer any questions you have about your insurance claim and/or property damage. We also offer a free property damage evaluation.