Hurricane season in Florida brings more than just wind and rain—it brings a wave of insurance claims. At Gelber Law Group, we’ve seen countless homeowners make simple but costly mistakes when filing claims for hurricane-related property damage.
Avoiding these mistakes could be the key to receiving a full and fair settlement from your insurance company.
Mistake #1: Waiting Too Long to File
Florida law gives you one yearfrom the date of the hurricane to file a property damage claim, but waiting too long can hurt your chances. Delays can result in missed deadlines, further damage to your property, and skepticism from your insurer. Always file as soon as possible after the storm.
Learn more: How long do I have in Florida to file a hurricane property damage claim?
Mistake #2: Not Documenting the Damage
Photos and videos are your best defense. If you don’t have clear documentation of the damage—both inside and outside your home—your insurer may dispute your claim. Use your smartphone to photograph every room, roof damage, water intrusion, and debris.
Pro Tip: If you took pre-hurricane photos, include them for a powerful before-and-after comparison.
Learn more: How Can I Maximize My Hurricane Property Damage Claim?
Mistake #3: Starting Repairs Without Approval
Generally, it’s best to avoid making any permanent repairs to your home if your insurance company has not yet approved the repairs. Many homeowners rush to fix obvious issues without getting proper authorization from their insurer. This can result in denied or reduced payouts. Always consult with your insurance company or a qualified property damage lawyer before starting repairs.
Mistake #4: Relying Solely on the Insurance Adjuster
The adjuster sent by your insurer works for them—not for you. Their job is to minimize payouts, not maximize your recovery. Having a property damage lawyer represent you, means you have someone on your side who is exclusively fighting for you. Remember, your property damage lawyer only gets paid if you get paid.
Mistake #5: Accepting a Lowball Settlement
Don’t feel pressured to accept the first payout offer. Insurance companies often offer less than what’s needed to fully repair or replace your property. If something feels off, consult Gelber Law Group for a free claim review.
How Gelber Law Group Helps You
We help Florida homeowners avoid costly missteps and ensure their claim is as strong as possible:
- Timely filing that meets all legal deadlines
- Comprehensive documentation and damage assessment
- Negotiations with insurers to pursue the highest payout
- Litigation support when necessary
Don’t Let Mistakes Cost You Thousands
If you’re dealing with hurricane damage, you are not alone. One misstep could give your insurance company an excuse to deny or underpay your claim.
Contact Gelber Law Group todayfor a free consultation. We’ll help you avoid mistakes and fight for the compensation you’re entitled to.
Fill out our contact form, or call us at 954-320-0100.
Gelber Law Group — Florida’s Trusted Hurricane Damage Claim Attorneys.