Hurricane season is a stressful time for homeowners in Florida. High winds, torrential rain, and flying debris can leave homes in disarray, requiring repairs or complete rebuilds. While having insurance may offer peace of mind, navigating the claims process can often feel like an uphill battle. Some insurance companies play games when it comes to paying out hurricane damage claims, sometimes even acting in bad faith.

Anthony-Smith Law is here to represent homeowners when their claims are unfairly denied or mishandled. This blog will cover the steps you should take after a hurricane damages your home and explain how to recognize bad faith insurance practices.

Step One: Document the Damage to Your Home Thoroughly

As soon as it’s safe to do so after a hurricane, begin documenting the damage to your property. Take photos and videos of everything—from broken windows to roof damage and flooding. This documentation will be critical when filing your claim. Keep a detailed list of damaged personal property as well.

Step Two: Review Your Insurance Policy Carefully

Before contacting your insurance company, take the time to review your homeowner’s insurance policy. Know your coverage, including any hurricane-related deductibles and exclusions. Many policies in Florida have special hurricane deductibles that could be higher than a standard deductible. Understanding the fine print can help you prepare for any potential disputes down the line.

Step Three: File Your Insurance Claim Promptly

Florida law requires policyholders to file insurance claims promptly after a hurricane or face the possibility of losing coverage for certain damages. Don’t delay—call your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Provide them with the documentation of damage and follow any specific instructions they give.

Step Four: Beware of Insurance Company Games

While most insurance companies act in good faith, some may play games to avoid paying out legitimate claims. Common tactics include:

• Delaying the claims process: Insurers may stall, hoping that policyholders will give up or settle for less than they are owed. Under Florida law, insurance companies are required to respond to claims within a certain period, but some will still drag their feet.
• Lowball settlement offers: An insurance company may offer a quick, low settlement that doesn’t cover the full cost of repairs. This is a common strategy to save money at the policyholder’s expense.
• Claiming misrepresentation: Insurance companies may falsely accuse policyholders of misrepresenting information on their application to void the policy. This tactic is used to deny valid claims under the guise of fraud.
• Denying claims for arbitrary reasons: Some insurers might deny claims based on unclear or unjustifiable reasons, leaving the homeowner scrambling to figure out what went wrong.

Step Five: Watch for Signs of Bad Faith Insurance Practices

Bad faith insurance practices occur when an insurance company acts dishonestly or unfairly in processing or denying a claim. In Florida, bad faith practices may include:

• Failure to investigate a claim properly: Insurance companies are required to conduct a thorough investigation of your claim. If they rush through or fail to investigate key aspects of the damage, this could indicate bad faith.
• Unreasonable delays in payments: Florida law requires insurance companies to make a decision on claims within a reasonable time. If your insurer is dragging its feet without good reason, it may be acting in bad faith.
• Offering far less than the claim is worth: Offering a settlement significantly lower than what’s needed for repairs, without a valid reason, is another red flag of bad faith.
• Refusing to communicate: If your insurance company avoids your calls, emails, or letters, they may be trying to avoid dealing with your claim.

Step Six: What to Do If Your Insurance Company Acts in Bad Faith

If you suspect your insurance company is acting in bad faith, you have options. Anthony-Smith Law specializes in holding insurance companies accountable when they refuse to pay what policyholders are rightfully owed. Our experienced attorneys will evaluate your situation and determine if you have grounds for a bad faith insurance lawsuit.

Key forms of bad faith include:

• Denying valid claims: If your insurer wrongfully denies a legitimate claim, you may be entitled to sue for compensation and damages.
• Unjustified delays: Constant delays without reasonable explanation can be grounds for a bad faith claim.
• False accusations of misrepresentation: If your insurer falsely claims you misrepresented information to deny your coverage, Anthony-Smith Law can help you challenge these accusations.

How Anthony-Smith Law Can Help

If you are struggling with your insurance company after your home has been damaged by a hurricane, don’t fight alone. Anthony-Smith Law has extensive experience representing clients in bad faith insurance claims. We will advocate on your behalf and work to get you the compensation you deserve.

Our team will guide you through the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected. We will examine your insurance policy, collect evidence of bad faith practices, and pursue legal action against the insurer if necessary.

Protect Your Rights and Seek Legal Representation

Hurricanes are stressful enough without having to worry about whether your insurance company will fulfill its promises. If your home has been damaged by a hurricane and your insurance company is giving you the runaround, it’s time to consult with an experienced attorney.

Contact Anthony-Smith Law today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll help you fight back against bad faith insurance practices and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your home and your life.

Anthony-Smith Law
321-900-HELP (4357)
Ocoee, FL