Insurance claim settlement

The destruction after a hurricane can be immense and overwhelming. And despite the aftermath of a hurricane, the last thing you want is for your property to suffer more damage. Your insurance policy will also mandate for you to mitigate further damages. We’ll discuss your duty as a policyholder to mitigate further damages, options for mitigation, and how mitigation factors into your insurance claim.

Policyholder Responsibilities to Mitigate Further Damages

Your insurance policy mandates that you take reasonable steps to protect your property from additional damage post-hurricane. The language will vary in each policy, but the overall objective is the same— protect your property from further damage.

Duties After Loss or Damage

Check your insurance policy for detailed guidelines on what actions you should take after your property suffers hurricane damage. Complying with your policy terms will be crucial in your claims process.

Documenting All Expenses Incurred During Mitigation

Keep records of all costs you incur while taking steps to prevent further damage to your property. These records serve as proof of expenses when you file your insurance claim.

Hurricane Ian Damage

Options for Mitigating Against Further Damage

We recommend seeking the advice and assistance of a professional after a hurricane, as the damages can be quite extensive and overwhelming. A professional will inspect your damages, provide an estimate, and perform the mitigation for you. In severe damage cases, a specialty mitigation company may be required to tend to more complex mitigation requirements.

Common Mitigation Applications Often Include

- - Tarping roofs to avoid leaks or intrusion of other debris
  - Securing damaged areas where leaks could occur
  - Covering broken windows or compromised opening
  - Removing surrounding debris.

Mitigation costs can be a burden under your insurance policy. It’s crucial not to compromise on mitigation efforts because inadequate protection could result in mold, mildew, and additional structural damage that may not be covered by your insurance. We recommend reviewing your policy ahead of time to understand the required level of mitigation and ensure you’re prepared before a hurricane occurs. You can have a complimentary policy review by our legal team here!

How Mitigation Factors into Your Insurance Claim

According to your insurance policy, your insurance carrier expects you to take reasonable steps to protect your damaged property from further harm. In most cases, the costs of these actions can be reimbursed under your policy.

However, costly methods like shrink wrapping, which temporarily secures a tarp on your roof, may complicate cost recovery. During a hurricane, appropriate alternatives, supplies, and mitigation services could be scarce for a prolonged period. It’s crucial to communicate with your insurance carrier to avoid paying out of pocket for mitigation. During your preparation for the hurricane, we recommend having a list of mitigation companies that you can quickly deploy to your property to inspect following the storm

Failing to mitigate could reduce your final settlement or lead to a claim denial. Just as it’s essential to document your property before and immediately after a storm, documenting the mitigation process is equally vital.

Documentation Recommendations

- - Taking photos from different angles of each mitigation step
  - Using videos as needed
  - Keeping records of communications with vendors, receipts, and materials

Promptly mitigating further damages after a hurricane protects your property and can strengthen your insurance claim. Premier Claims is dedicated to guiding policyholders through every step of the recovery process.

There are a few words and phrases that invoke a cringe response within a business setting: bankruptcy, data breaches, and cash flow problems, to name a few. However, the number one trigger for any business owner should be a tie between a lawsuit or litigation. For many business owners, the thought of entering litigation can be daunting, often due to the perceived costs. At Premier Claims, we understand the hesitation around spending money on legal proceedings. However, it’s crucial to recognize that litigation, while an investment, can be a strategic step in potentially receiving the compensation you’re entitled to.

The True Cost of Avoiding Litigation

Choosing to forgo litigation may seem like a way to save money upfront, but this decision can lead to significant financial losses in the long run. Without litigation, you might accept a lower settlement from your insurance carrier, potentially leaving crucial repairs and damages underfunded. This can result in long-term issues, such as structural damage, mold growth, or even loss of property value. As a reminder pursuing litigation may safeguard you from paying out-of-pocket for extensive repairs that should have been covered per your policy.

Value of Litigation in Insurance Claims

Increasing Your Claim’s Success

Litigation is often the most effective way to ensure your insurance claim is fully honored. At Premier Claims, our thorough case assessment allows us to determine the true value of your claim. We work closely with an experienced team of legal professionals to present the strongest argument to increase your potential recovery. This process can result in significantly higher compensation, which far outweighs the costs associated with litigation.

Comprehensive Property Protection

Investing in litigation is not just about recovering immediate costs; it’s about protecting your property for the future. Properly funded repairs can prevent further damage, preserving the integrity and value of your property. In the long term, the financial and emotional relief from securing full compensation can far exceed the initial litigation expenses.

A Calculated Investment in Your Future

At Premier Claims, we view litigation not as an unnecessary expense but as a calculated investment in your future. We strive to be transparent about potential costs and work to minimize them while fighting for your return on investment.

The Benefits Outweigh the Costs

While it’s natural to be concerned about litigation costs, it’s important to weigh these costs against the potential benefits. Litigation can provide the necessary avenue to compel your insurance carrier to pay what is owed, potentially preventing you from being under-compensated. By securing adequate funds for repairs and restoration, you not only protect your current assets but also your future financial stability.

Deciding to pursue litigation with Premier Claims is a decision to protect your property, fight for fair compensation, and invest in your future. Don’t let the fear of litigation costs prevent you from obtaining the justice and financial recovery you are owed. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, providing clarity, confidence and experienced guidance throughout the process. There’s value in litigation for insurance claims; what’s holding you back?

Mitigating Further Damage After a Hurricane