Property damage in Fort Myers is common and can occur for a variety of reasons, including natural disasters, accidents, and intentional acts. It’s essential to understand the different types of property damage to properly address them and seek compensation if necessary. In this article, we will explore some of the most common types of property damage and provide information on how to handle them.
The attorneys with Keller, Melchiorre & Walsh will be here to help you pick up the pieces if you’ve suffered severe property damage. If your insurance company is dragging its feet – or even worse, refusing to pay your claim – get in touch with us as soon as you can. Call us at (561) 295-5825 or use our online contact form to learn more about how we can help.
Wind and Hail Damage
Wind and hail damage are two of the most common types of property damage. High winds can cause damage to roofs, siding, windows, and other parts of a building. Hail can cause similar damage, as well as damage to vehicles and other personal property. In some cases, wind and hail damage can be so severe that it renders a property uninhabitable. And yes, hail does occur in Fort Myers!
If your property has been damaged by wind or hail, immediately preventing further damage will be essential. Steps to take may include the following:
- Covering broken windows or damaged roofs with tarps.
- Removing fallen debris.
- Securing any loose items that could cause additional damage.
You should also contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and begin the claims process.
Water Damage
Water damage can occur due to flooding, leaks, burst pipes, etc. It can cause structural damage, mold growth, and damage to personal property.
Stop the source of the water as soon as possible so you can begin the cleanup process. Cleaning up may include the following steps:
- Using pumps or vacuums to remove standing water.
- Removing wet carpet and furniture.
- Using dehumidifiers to dry out the affected areas.
It’s also important to contact your insurer as soon as you can.
Fire Damage
Fire damage can be caused by various factors, including electrical faults, cooking accidents, and arson. It can be one of the most devastating types of property damage, as it can destroy a building and its contents.
If your property has suffered fire damage, contact the fire department. Once it’s safe to do so, secure the property and begin salvaging any undamaged items. It would be best to contact your insurer as soon as possible.
Hurricane Damage
Hurricane damage can result from high winds, heavy rain, and storm surge. It can be one of the most devastating types of property damage. A hurricane can be so catastrophic that it makes it impossible to stay in a home.
Returning to a home destroyed by a hurricane is a horrible experience. But if this has happened to you, fast action will be key to returning to normal as quickly as possible. Contact your insurance company to get the process started.
Other Types of Property Damage
Several other types of property damage in Fort Myers can occur, including the following:
Falling Trees
Falling trees can significantly threaten property, particularly during storms or when trees are weakened by disease or decay. A falling tree can cause severe damage to a home or other structure, as well as to vehicles and personal belongings.
Toxic Mold
Toxic mold can grow in areas of a property that are damp or have sustained water damage. It can cause a variety of health problems, particularly for individuals with respiratory issues or weakened immune systems. In addition to health concerns, toxic mold can cause damage to personal property and the structure of a building.
Lightning
Florida is typically known as the lightning capital of the United States (but not the world – that “honor” goes to Venezuela). Our state has more strikes than any other part of the country. Lightning strikes can cause significant damage to a property, particularly if they start a fire or damage electrical systems. They can also cause severe damage to personal property, including electronics and appliances.
Sinkholes
It seems like every year we hear horror stories about sinkholes suddenly swallowing homes somewhere in our state. Sinkholes can occur in areas with limestone bedrock, particularly in Florida and other coastal areas. They can destroy a home’s foundation as well as the surrounding landscape. In some instances, they can even cause terrible injuries or deaths.
How Much Compensation Can You Receive for Your Damages?
The compensation you can receive for your damages will depend on several factors. These include the extent and cause of the damage and the terms of your insurance policy.
In general, you can expect to receive compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement of damaged property, as well as for any related expenses such as temporary housing or storage of damaged items. Carefully document all of your losses and expenses related to the damage, as this will help you to make a strong case for compensation.
What if Your Claim is Denied?
If the insurance company denies your claim or offers you an inadequate amount of compensation, it may be necessary to take legal action. This may involve filing a lawsuit against your insurance company or negotiating a settlement with the assistance of an experienced property damage attorney.
You don’t want to try to take on a huge insurance corporation without the help of a skilled lawyer. If you try to go it alone, you’ll have almost no chance of obtaining fair compensation for your losses.
Contact Keller, Melchiorre & Walsh to Speak with an Experienced Fort Myers Property Damage Attorney
Contact Keller, Melchiorre & Walsh immediately if you’ve suffered property damage and the insurance company is mistreating you. Our legal professionals can help you navigate the complex process of filing an insurance claim and negotiating with your insurer. We’ll be ready to take legal action to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact us online or call (561) 295-5825 to schedule a consultation. We’ll gladly tell you more about how we can assist with your property damage claim.