Flooding can wreak havoc on homes and businesses. While homeowners’ insurance policies may cover some types of water damage, flood damage is usually not. The attorneys with Keller, Melchiorre & Walsh have some information on why this is the case and how we can protect your rights if you have a flood and your insurer denies your claim.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with KMW so we can tell you more. You can use our online contact form, or you can give us a call at (561) 295-5825.
Different Causes of Floods
There are several different causes of floods. One of the most common is heavy rainfall, which can cause rivers and streams to overflow their banks. This type of flood is often called a flash flood because it can happen quickly and with little warning. Other causes of floods include hurricanes, tropical storms, and dam or levee failures.
Why are Claims for Flood Damage Often Denied?
Even though flooding is common, most insurance policies don’t cover flood damage. This is because flood damage is considered separate from other water damage and requires a separate insurance policy. Additionally, many insurance companies exclude flood damage from their policies altogether.
Even if you do have flood insurance, your claim may still be denied for a variety of reasons. For example, if your flood insurance policy has a specific exclusion for the cause of the flood (such as a hurricane), your claim may be denied if that specific event caused the flood. Another common reason for denied claims is if the policyholder fails to follow the requirements outlined in the policy, such as submitting a claim within a specific timeframe.
Protecting Your Home from Flood Damage
One of the best ways to protect your home from flood damage is to purchase flood insurance. While this type of insurance may be expensive, it can save you thousands of dollars in the long run. If you live in an area at high risk for flooding, it’s essential to purchase this type of insurance as soon as possible. It would be best if you did this quickly because many policies have a waiting period before they take effect.
In addition to buying a flood insurance policy, you can do several other things to protect your property. These include the following:
- Elevating your home or essential appliances: If you’re in an area prone to flooding, it may be worth investing in elevating your home. If that’s not feasible, consider ways to get your important appliances (such as your HVAC system or water heater) above the flood line. This can be costly, but it can provide significant peace of mind and protect your home from damage. Pay attention to the weather forecast and be prepared to take action if needed.
- Installing flood barriers: You can also install barriers around your home or essential appliances to prevent flood water from entering. Types of flood barriers include sandbags, inflatable barriers, aluminum panels, and mobile flood walls. Each barrier type has unique features and benefits, and the best option for your home will depend on your specific needs and budget.
- Clearing gutters and downspouts: Keeping your gutters and downspouts clear of debris can help prevent water from building up and causing damage. If your gutters become clogged, water can build up and cause damage to your roof, walls, and foundation.
- Installing a sump pump: A sump pump can help remove water that accumulates in your basement or crawl space, helping to prevent damage and mold growth.
- Creating a flood plan: This involves identifying evacuation routes, preparing an emergency kit, securing necessary documents, and turning off utilities. It’s also essential to communicate the plan with family members and practice it regularly to ensure everyone knows what to do in the event of a flood.
Filing a Flood Damage Claim
If a flood has damaged your home, it’s vital to realize Florida law allows you to file a claim. Please do this as soon as possible. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:
Keep a Record of the Damage
Use your phone to take videos or photos of the damage and create a detailed inventory of all damaged items. This will help support your claim and ensure you receive the appropriate compensation.
Get Your Own Estimate
Your insurance company will likely send out an adjuster to estimate the damage. But it’s a good idea to get an estimate from an independent third party. This will help you ensure that you obtain fair compensation.
Work with a Property Damage Attorney
If the insurance company denies your claim or you feel they’re not compensating you fairly, working with a property damage attorney may be worth it. An attorney can help you navigate the claims process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact Keller, Melchiorre & Walsh to Schedule a Free Evaluation of Your Property Damage Claim
If you’re struggling to get your insurance company to cover your flood damage, it may be time to contact a law firm specializing in property damage claims. KMW is one such firm, and we offer free evaluations of property damage claims.
During your evaluation, a KMW attorney will review your case and guide you on how to proceed. We can also help you determine if you have a valid claim and how much compensation you may be entitled to.
KMW has years of experience helping homeowners and businesses get the compensation they deserve for flood damage. Our team of attorneys understands the intricacies of insurance policies and can help you easily navigate the claims process.
In addition to offering free evaluations, KMW works on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t have to pay anything unless they win your case. This can provide peace of mind and ensure you are not taking on unnecessary financial risk.
Talk to a KMW attorney for more information. You can contact us online or call (561) 295-5825 for a free consultation and to find out how we can help.