After hurricanes, the business of rebuilding lives means navigating the insurance claims process

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Lawrence White News

U.S. News,Business

Now that the threat of Hurricanes Helene and Milton has receded, millions of homeowners and business-owners across Florida and the Southeastern U.S. are faced with traversing the often long and laborious process of using insurance to rebuild their lives.

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Immediately after disasters like these, property insurance is likely not top of mind as people secure their safety and basic needs, but insurance claims are part of the process of resetting. Many buy the policies in hope they can help protect them when disaster strikes. But Here are some steps home and business owners should keep in mind when filing an insurance claim after a natural disaster.After the immediate emergency response, the first thing a homeowner or business owner should do is call their insurance agent or broker. The deadline to file a claim is generally about 60 days from the date of loss.

While Helene was primarily a flood event, there may be disputes over what is or isn’t “wind-driven rain” from Milton. Hornstein said the line between wind and water is a thin but very clear line that technical experts can determine. Should there be a proverbial tie, the law favors the insurance company.

Once a claim is filed, the insurance company’s adjuster will come to survey the damage, typically within a few days if conditions allow. Be responsive to adjusters and make sure they see the damage that you see. “The insurance companies have totally the upper hand and when there’s a public adjuster, it does level the playing field a lot for the consumer having someone who speaks insurance and speaks damage," Bach said.Be aware of the deadlines for accepting a payment offer or filing an appeal with the insurance company.

 

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