Most people consider their homeowner’s and renter’s insurance an important tool to hedge against both natural and manmade disasters. After all, why would you pay your insurance company premiums if you couldn’t claim the money in the event of an unforeseen, adverse event? In Florida, there are ample opportunities for the elements to damage your property. People move here to enjoy the climate and the proximity to the water. Unfortunately, the very attractions that keep so many of us here can wreak havoc on your home, car, and personal belongings. If the insurance company refuses to treat you fairly, we can help you fight for what you owe.
How Can a Lawyer Help with My Homeowner's Claim?
We can review your policy to determine exactly what is covered. If you have already been offered a settlement we can review that as well. If that settlement seems too low, we will negotiate for a more favorable one. Above all, we will make sure you are not taken advantage of.
If your insurer denied your claim in bad faith, we can demand that they honor the terms of your policy. Often, insurers will try to settle. But if they don’t, we can fight for you in court. Our more than 50 years of combined experience in front of Florida judges will serve you well.
Changing the outcome of your claim can be difficult without the help of an experienced lawyer. Insurance companies' profit is dependant on paying out as little as possible of the premiums that you pay them. It’s simple math, and their adjusters and lawyers are good at keeping the balance in their favor.
Common Types of Property Damage Claims
Some of the most common types of property damage claims that our law firm deals with include:
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Wind damage
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Water damage
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Damage from theft or vandalism
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Fire or lightning damage
Not every type of property damage is covered by every policy. It takes experience to understand the language insurance companies use in their contracts. We can review and clarify your policy to ensure you get the service you pay for with your premiums.
Why Would the Insurance Company Deny My Claim?
Here are some of the common reasons that your insurer may use to deny your claim:
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You didn’t file your claim on time. Insurance companies need you to make a claim within a certain period of time to cover any damages. If you miss the deadline, the insurer may try to deny it.
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The adjuster doesn’t think you have enough evidence. When you file a claim, you’ll need to provide proof of the accident and describe how it damaged your property. If you leave any details out, they may pay you less than you need.
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You missed a payment deadline. If you miss a payment or pay late, an insurance company may say you broke the contract and deny you coverage.
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They say the accident isn’t covered. Policies often include long lists of exclusions, like floods, sinkholes, and hurricanes. If someone else caused your accident intentionally or through negligence, the insurance company may say that the at-fault party should pay instead.
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They don’t believe you. Your insurer may argue that your claim is fraudulent, and deny it outright.
We will explain your denial and how we can negotiate with your insurer on your behalf. If your insurer claims another party should pay, we can explore who’s at fault and how their liability affects your policy.
What Is an Assignment of Benefits?
Assignment of Benefits (AOB) is an agreement that transfers the insurance claims rights or benefits of the policy to a third-party. An AOB gives the third-party authority to file a claim, make repair decisions, and collect insurance payments without the involvement of the homeowner. The AOB may prevent you from making a claim of your own, since the AOB substitutes the company as your policy’s beneficiary for the damage they’re fixing. If your insurance company denies the claim, the contractor may say you’re on the hook. It’s important to read any contract and consider it before you sign it. We can help you demand the money you are owed for repairs or replacement of damaged property and avoid costly mistakes like signing an unwise AOB. We can also help you understand an AOB you have already agreed to.
Talk to a Property Damage Attorney Now
Don’t wait until it’s too late to file an insurance claim for property damage. The Holliday Karatinos Law Firm will help you fight for the full and fair compensation you’re entitled to. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.
