As hurricane season approaches, now is the time to make preparations for your home or business in southwest Florida. No one plans for property damage, but it’s still important to take the proper precautions in the event of a natural disaster. Here are some tips you can use to get ahead of the game and protect yourself from insurance companies:
Just like changing the batteries in your smoke detectors, take photos of the exterior/interior of your home prior to the start of the hurricane season every year. This includes windows, furniture, recent renovations, electronics and valuables. Remember to include outdoor enclosures such as a lanai, deck or pool as well. This step is critical and can help guarantee a larger payout from your home insurance down the road.
If possible, keep all receipts for home improvements, furniture, electronics, etc. in a safe place for use in an insurance claim.
For business owners, keep all financials, payroll statements, business interruption coverages, etc. in a secure location (ex. with your accountant, lawyer or in a safe deposit box).
In the event that your home or business does suffer property damage, remember these tips in an emergency:
Do not panic. Keep a clear head and make logical and sensible decisions. Do NOT attempt to clean anything up or make repairs on your own. If the building is flooding, shut off main water valves if possible.
In the case of a major issue such as fire, gas leak, hurricane, wind damage, tornado, etc. immediately leave the property, call emergency services and do not re-enter. Possessions can be replaced.
In minor issues such as water damage or leaks, sewer back-ups, etc. contact a reliable water/sewage mitigation company from your area to help make repairs.
Do NOT throw out any damaged items such as carpet, furniture, electronics, etc. Your insurance adjuster will not pay for these items unless they can document them. Store them outside, in a shed or put a tarp over them until they can be accounted for by your insurer.
When it is safe to re-enter, take photos of any and all damage to the structure and possessions. If possible, use a timestamp on the photos to show the date and time.
Most people who experience their first insurance damage claim think that their insurance company and their employees and agents will help them receive a fair settlement for their loss. Nothing could be further from the truth. The insurance industry will attempt to tell you what they are willing to pay for your loss, or deny your entire claim. Fighting the insurance company is a battle that few ever win on their own.
With 27 years of experience working on behalf of homeowners and businesses throughout Florida, Advantage Public Adjusters is a trusted and reliable community business that operates out of Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties.
If you have suffered property damage to your residence or commercial business, contact Advantage Public Adjusters for a FREE CLAIM REVIEW WITH NO OBLIGATION.
Contact Mike Longshore at (267) 825-4756 or mikelongshore@aol.com.