In 2017, 17 named hurricanes caused more than $200 billion worth of damage in the US.

As the ocean temperatures rise along with sea levels, it’s expected that the impact of hurricanes will intensify in the years to come. But what if your home has already been affected by hurricane damage?

Getting the compensation that your owed can help you start rebuilding your home and your life after such an unfortunate occurrence. With these 5 tips, you’re sure to get the most out of your claim.

Take Pictures and Be Prepared Prior to a Storm

We cannot urge homeowners enough to take photographs of the different rooms in your home, of your personal property and of your commercial property prior to the storm damage to document evidence of the condition of your home. Additionally, putting all important documents in a safe place – especially your insurance policy!

Notify Your Provider

In 2016, only 12% of homeowners in the US had flood insurance. If you’re one of those Americans, remember that you only have 60 days to notify your insurance provider of the flood damage.

If you don’t have flood insurance, your homeowner’s policy might cover some of the damage that you’ve sustained. The deadline for reporting your damage varies by insurance company. But the sooner you deliver this information, the better.

Know What Hurricane Damage You’re Covered For

Most homeowners insurance policies provide coverage for damage caused by wind among other items. Below is a list of the coverage a standard policy usually provides:

• Tornado damage
• Water damage from rain entering your home (not usually water damage caused by water coming from the ground – such as a flood)
• Expense money that covers your stay in a hotel, food, as well as other costs incurred as a result of being evacuated
• Money to replace food that may have spoiler due to a loss of power

Not all policies will cover the above items and some will cover more. Go over your policy to find out what you’re entitled to, and if you are having trouble understanding, hire a public adjuster for an expert opinion with years of experience dissecting insurance claims to discover all rights and compensations that are deserved.

Hire a Public Adjuster to get Compensated

Insurance adjusters are the people who help ensure the insurance company fulfills all of their obligations as quickly and fairly as possible.

Public Insurance Adjusters work independently of the insurance company and help people negotiate with insurance companies. They work with your best interest at heart to help you get the most out of your insurance company.

Check if You’re Covered by Other Bodies

Beyond your insurance, you might be eligible for other coverage.

You might be able to get help from the federal government. They can help you with uninsured losses. This includes damage from floods even if you don’t have flood insurance.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency might be able to help you as well. You can check online at DisasterAssistance.gov to see if you qualify.

The US Small Business Administration provides disasters loans. Homeowners, renters, and small businesses can apply.

Don’t Give Up

If your claim is denied, don’t give up. You can usually appeal a claim denial. This can be done through the help of an experienced public adjuster.

Have You Sustained Hurricane Damage?

If your home was damaged in a hurricane, you’re likely covered for at least some of the costs. To get the most compensation for hurricane damage, you should know what you’re covered for and work with an adjuster to determine what you’re entitled to.

If you recently sustained hurricane damage, we can help you negotiate with your insurance company. Contact us today to start a new claim.