IN RECENT NEWS
On today’s episode of the Butch and Bob Show on Big Dog Country station in Georgia, one of our most experienced and valued policyholder advocates, Caitlyn Milligan discusses the restoration efforts following Hurricane Helene.
On today’s episode of the Butch and Bob Show on Big Dog Country station in Georgia, one of our most experienced and valued policyholder advocates, Caitlyn Milligan discusses the restoration efforts following Hurricane Helene.
In this insightful discussion, Kyle Maring, CEO of Premier Claims, sits down with a representative from HailTrace to discuss the impact of Hurricane Helene. They explore the current challenges faced by affected communities and outline the crucial next steps for restoration and recovery efforts. Tune in to hear their professional perspectives on navigating the aftermath of such a devastating storm.
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Hurricane Helene brought a mix of powerful winds and torrential rain, leaving behind extensive damage. Property owners now face the challenge of filing claims, but many may not fully understand what their policies cover. Things can get murky when it comes to the differences between wind damage, water damage, and concurrent losses.
One of the most significant sources of confusion for property owners after a hurricane is the distinction between wind damage and water damage. Each type of damage is covered differently, so understanding the fine print is critical.
If Hurricane Helene damaged your property by blowing off shingles, tearing apart windows, or causing structural damage, this is typically covered under standard hurricane or windstorm insurance. Wind-driven rain that enters through an opening caused by the storm is also typically covered.
However, damage caused by storm surges or rising floodwaters often requires a separate flood insurance policy. If your property sustained flood damage and you don’t have flood insurance, it’s unlikely to be covered under your standard policy. The National Flood Insurance Program outlines flood coverage applications and the required documents to prove the loss.
To protect your property, check your policy for specific wording related to wind-driven rain and flooding. If you’re unsure, a public adjuster can help review your policy and provide clarity.
Post-Hurricane Helene, things can be tricky when wind and water team up to cause damage. This is called concurrent loss, and it can impact what your policy covers. Here’s the deal—if wind rips off the top of your roof and rain floods your home, you’ve got a mix of wind-driven and water damage. The problem? Insurance policies often treat them differently.
Many standard policies cover wind damage but exclude flooding. So, if your damage is caused by both, your insurer might only pay for part of the claim—or worse, none at all—depending on whether you have flood exclusions in your policy. Some policies even include concurrent loss exclusions, meaning coverage can be delayed or denied if the excluded peril, such as flooding, is deemed the primary cause of the damage—even if wind damage, which is normally covered, occurs as a result.
CONCURRENT LOSS EXAMPLE
A commercial retail owner in the bend of Florida likely experienced wind damage during the storm. The wind could have damaged the roof and blown open doors and windows, allowing floodwaters to enter the property. After the storm, it’s often hard to tell whether wind or water caused the damage first. For policyholders without flood coverage but with causation coverage, they may still be covered under a wind loss. If you’ve had a mix of losses, consider having your policy reviewed by professionals to understand your coverage fully. To request a policy review from our team, you can submit a request here: Free Policy Review
To see just how extensive the damage can be, ABC News gathered aerial footage of the flooding and wind destruction in North Carolina caused by Hurricane Helene. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact of concurrent loss.
Our team at Premier Claims knows how to advocate for the insured in instances like this. Having someone who knows the ins and outs of your insurance policy and how to match your damage accordingly can be the difference in the success of your hurricane claim. With the devastation of Hurricane Helene, nothing should be left to chance.
Another often overlooked aspect of hurricane insurance is the hurricane deductible. Unlike a flat deductible, hurricane deductibles typically take a percentage of your property’s insured value. Some policies won’t specify a hurricane deductible, but will include something specific for wind. This often makes deductibles much higher than expected.
For example, if your property carries $500,000 in coverage and your policy includes a 3% hurricane deductible, you must cover the first $15,000 before insurance kicks in.
As Ashley Workman, our Senior Paralegal, explains, “Recovery after a storm like Helene is complex, emotionally draining, and can often seem insurmountable, but understanding your policy and how to navigate the claims process can help. Check your policy for mitigation requirements, or requirements to protect your property from further loss. Most policies will outline your duty to take the steps necessary to avoid further damage. It’s important to remember to do the minimum to accomplish that. Keep a record of your expenses to be submitted for reimbursement. Excessive costs for mitigation can exacerbate claim difficulties, as your carrier could refuse to pay those large expenses.”
Review your policy carefully to understand how your hurricane deductible works and how much you’ll be responsible for if you file a claim.
Navigating your insurance policy after Hurricane Helene can feel overwhelming, but understanding key aspects of your coverage—like the difference between wind and water damage, hurricane deductibles, and concurrent losses—can help you take control of your claim. If you need help reviewing your policy or filing your claim, Premier Claims is here to guide you every step of the way. You don’t have to go through this alone; we’re here to help. Contact us today for immediate assistance!
In the wake of the recent destruction from hurricanes, thousands of homeowners are not just picking up the pieces of their lives—they’re bracing for a new kind of storm: the battle with their insurance carriers. While families are still reeling from the devastation, a darker, more troubling reality is unfolding. Will their insurance policies—the safety nets they’ve invested in for years—come through when they need them most?
If history is any indication, the answer might leave you unsettled. CBS’s recent 60 Minutes exposé on Hurricane Ian revealed how insurance carriers systematically underpaid or outright denied policyholders. They altered damage assessments to reduce payouts. With Hurricane Helene and Milton’s damage mirroring, if not exceeding, Ian’s, homeowners must now confront the possibility that they, too, could face the same unfair treatment.
As you begin the recovery process, it’s crucial to know how to protect yourself from an industry that may prioritize profits over people.
According to the episode, many policyholders found that their damage reports were mysteriously altered, underestimating the destruction to their properties. As the whistleblowers interviewed in the episode noted, insurance carriers deployed tactics that included modifying damage estimates—sometimes drastically—to minimize the compensation owed to homeowners. A contractor featured in the episode shared, “The damage was clear, but what wasn’t clear was why the estimates didn’t match reality anymore.”
As evidenced in the 60 Minutes episode, policyholders from Hurricane Ian are still battling their insurance carriers for the compensation they were promised. These delays and reductions in payouts can be financially crippling at a time when people need help the most.
The question on everyone’s mind now is: Could this happen again with Hurricane Helene & Milton? Unfortunately, the current insurance climate suggests that it’s not just a possibility, but a strong likelihood.
Given the current landscape, there are several things policyholders should keep in mind when navigating the claims process after a Hurricane:
As we watch more hurricane devastation unfold, property owners must brace themselves for the physical recovery and the potential financial battle ahead. In many cases, it’s not about how much damage was done but how much insurers are willing to acknowledge.
We encourage policyholders to stay informed, know their rights, and reach out to professionals when in doubt. The lessons from Hurricane Ian should serve as a grim reminder: proactively know the coverage and rights within your policy so you know when it’s time to defend your claim.
After a devastating event like Hurricane Helene, the last thing you want to deal with is the labyrinth of insurance claims. It can feel like navigating through a maze blindfolded—frustrating and, quite frankly, exhausting. That’s where a public adjuster, like those at Premier Claims, comes in. Think of us as your personal guide, helping you understand your rights, make the most of your claim, and stand up to those pesky insurance carriers who often try to take advantage of you.
When the storm clears, it’s essential to capture every nook and cranny of the damage—this is not just about broken windows or missing shingles. A skilled public adjuster meticulously documents all damages and potential recoverable losses, including things you might not even think about, like hidden water damage or structural issues. They utilize advanced tools and techniques to provide a clear picture, attempting to ensure that no detail is overlooked. This thorough documentation sets a solid foundation for your claim.
Before diving into the claims process, understanding the policy is crucial. Our legal team will dissect your insurance policy with laser focus, checking for coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions that could impact your claim. They’ll highlight the fine print that often gets ignored, determining exactly what’s covered and what isn’t. This knowledge is power, and it’s your best defense against any surprises down the line. To submit your insurance policy for a complimentary review, fill out the following form: https://premier-claims.com/policy-review/
Let’s be honest: insurance jargon can feel like a foreign language. What’s the real value of your claim? A public adjuster translates that complexity into understandable terms, helping you see the full picture. Our team will review your policy and look for key things to tie to your property’s damage. They’ll conduct a detailed assessment of your losses and repairs, fighting for your right to a fair payout. This clarity not only empowers you but also prevents insurance carriers from pulling a fast one.
The paperwork that follows a disaster can feel like it’s piling up faster than your to-do list. A public adjuster takes the headache out of managing forms, claims, and deadlines. They know the ins and outs of the process and will handle the administrative tasks, allowing you to focus on more pressing matters—like finding a safe place to sleep or regrouping with your family. They’re your safety net, catching all the details that could slip through the cracks.
Have you ever tried to get a straight answer from your insurance carrier? It can feel like talking to a brick wall. Your public adjuster will act as your liaison, managing communications with your insurance carrier. This means you won’t have to endure endless hold music or baffling conversations. They ensure your concerns are heard, documented, and addressed, streamlining the process and hopefully reducing your stress.
Negotiating with insurance adjusters can feel like David vs. Goliath, especially if you’re going in without the right expertise. A public adjuster brings invaluable negotiation skills to the table, advocating for you and your interests. They know the tactics insurance carriers use to minimize payouts, and they won’t back down until they’ve explored every option—fighting for you to receive the compensation you need to restore your property adequately.
Sadly, not all insurance carriers play fair. Some may resort to bad faith tactics, like delaying your claim or offering significantly lower settlements. A knowledgeable public adjuster is your advocate, protecting you from these unfair practices and aiming for you to be treated with the respect and fairness you deserve. They’ll keep a watchful eye on the process and challenge any unjust actions from the insurer.
At the end of the day, your public adjuster isn’t just there to get you a quick payout—they’re dedicated to getting your property restored to its pre-loss condition. They’ll fight for the comprehensive repairs and support you need, helping to ensure that your property is not just fixed, but truly restored. Hurricane Helene doesn’t get the last laugh, and neither should your insurance carrier.
Recovering from Hurricane Helene is not just about rebuilding your property; it’s about reclaiming your peace of mind. A public adjuster can be your trusted ally in this journey, navigating the complexities of insurance claims and advocating for your best interests every step of the way.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed after Hurricane Helene and need a guiding hand, contact us today. Our experienced public adjusters are here to help you maximize your claim and restore your property so you can move forward with confidence.
As you brace yourself for the impending hurricane, it’s perfectly normal to feel a mix of anxiety and anticipation. While we can’t control Mother Nature (trust me, we’ve tried), we can control how we respond when the storm clouds roll in. Knowing your responsibilities as a policyholder can protect your property and make the recovery process much smoother.
Once the winds start howling, your first job is to mitigate further damage—a fancy way of saying, “Stop the damage from getting worse!” Here’s how to do that without losing your cool:
Once you’ve taken steps to secure your property, it’s time to let your insurance carrier in on the action. Here’s how to make the call count:
After notifying your insurance carrier, it’s time to take charge of the recovery process—and you don’t have to do it alone! Here’s how Premier Claims can step in and assist you:
Finally, don’t forget about the power of community. After the hurricane is the perfect time to channel your inner neighborly spirit.
Facing the aftermath of a hurricane can feel daunting, but understanding your responsibilities as a policyholder can empower you during this challenging time. Taking proactive steps to mitigate damage, notifying your insurance carrier promptly, and leaning on your community for support can turn a stressful situation into a more manageable one.
If you need help navigating the claims process, remember Premier Claims is here to guide you every step of the way. Connect with our team today, and together, we’ll turn this stormy season into a story of resilience and recovery.
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With Hurricane Helene looming, it’s easy to focus solely on securing supplies and preparing for the storm. However, one of the most important steps you can take is documenting the current condition of your property. Having this documentation can be invaluable if you need to file an insurance claim after the hurricane passes. After all, the last thing you want to deal with in the aftermath of a storm is the stress of proving your losses to your insurance carrier.
After a natural disaster like a hurricane, proving the extent of the damage to your insurance carrier can become difficult. If you don’t have clear evidence of your property’s pre-storm condition, the insurer may question how much damage is directly related to the hurricane. By showing the property’s condition before the storm, you can avoid delays or disputes in getting the compensation you need for repairs.
Start by photographing and recording your entire property, both inside and outside. Pay special attention to areas that are prone to damage, such as the roof, windows, and doors. Ensure your images are high-quality and well-lit. For video documentation, provide a verbal description as you walk through each area of your property, pointing out specific details like recent renovations or the condition of older structures. This extra effort can go a long way in showcasing your property’s integrity.
Focus on areas of your property that could be most affected by Hurricane Helene, such as:
We recommend creating a list of your personal belongings and their estimated value. This inventory should include everything from electronics and appliances to furniture and valuables. Keep receipts and proof of purchase alongside your inventory for expensive items, like jewelry or high-end electronics. Keeping a digital copy of this inventory is in your best interest when it comes time to submit your claim efficiently. These items may hold sentimental value as well as financial investment, so documenting them is a key step in protecting yourself.
Once you’ve gathered all your documentation, make sure it’s stored safely. Opt for cloud storage services or a backup drive to ensure your data is not lost, even if your property sustains significant damage. Physical copies should be kept in a waterproof and fireproof container. Taking these precautions can give you a sense of security, knowing you have what you need in case the unexpected happens.
When filing a claim after a hurricane, your insurance carrier will typically assess the damage to determine how much you should be compensated. If you’ve documented your property’s condition beforehand, you can quickly provide evidence that supports your claim, helping you avoid disputes about pre-existing damage.
Insurance adjusters appreciate policyholders who can show clear before-and-after comparisons. These records can fast-track the claims process, allowing you to receive payments more quickly. Moreover, it helps prevent disputes over whether certain damages were caused by the hurricane or pre-existing issues, reducing the stress of navigating your recovery.
It’s important to document your property well before Hurricane Helene reaches your doorstep. Once a storm warning is issued, there’s often too little time to create comprehensive documentation. Make property documentation a regular part of your annual maintenance to stay prepared for unexpected events like Hurricane Helene.
With hurricanes becoming more frequent and severe, it’s essential to prepare your property physically and administratively. Properly documenting your property’s condition is one of the best ways to protect your financial interests and those you love. Taking these steps before the storm can make the claims process smoother and more efficient, giving you peace of mind during a stressful time.
At Premier Claims, we understand preparing for a hurricane can be overwhelming. Our dedicated team is here to support you throughout the entire process, from beginning to end. We’ll help you navigate the critical steps in pre-hurricane preparation, including how to document your property effectively. You don’t have to do this alone—reach out to our team today to create a solid foundation for your post-storm recovery.