Rejected Hurricane Damage Claims: Why They Happen and How to Fight Back
Hurricanes are a part of life in Florida, with the state experiencing some of the most destructive storms in the country. According to the Insurance Information Institute, Florida led the nation in insured losses from hurricanes, with Hurricane Ian alone resulting in $60 billion in claims in 2022. Yet, thousands of these claims were denied or underpaid, leaving homeowners frustrated and financially strained.
If you’ve received a rejected hurricane damage claim, you’re not alone. In this blog, we’ll explore the common reasons for claim rejections, how you can address them, and why hiring a public adjuster like Florida Public Adjusting is crucial.
Why Are Hurricane Damage Claims Rejected?
Insurance companies reject claims for various reasons, often citing technicalities or incomplete documentation. Here are the most common reasons:
- Insufficient Documentation
Insurance companies often require detailed evidence of damage. Without adequate photos, repair estimates, or proof of loss, your claim could be denied. - Pre-Existing Damage
Insurers sometimes argue that the damage was present before the hurricane, even when it’s clearly storm-related. - Missed Deadlines
Florida law requires homeowners to report hurricane-related damage within strict timeframes. Missing these deadlines can result in a rejected claim. - Exclusions in Coverage
Many policies include fine print excluding specific types of hurricane damage, such as flooding, unless additional coverage was purchased. - Lowball Settlements
Even when claims aren’t outright rejected, insurers often undervalue the cost of repairs, leaving homeowners to cover the difference.
Real Stories: The Impact of Rejected Claims
The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation reported that 29% of claims filed after Hurricane Michael in 2018 were either closed without payment or rejected outright. This left countless families struggling to rebuild their homes and lives.
For example, in a well-documented case, a homeowner in Fort Myers Beach faced a denied claim because the insurer claimed the flooding damage wasn’t hurricane-related. With the help of a public adjuster, they were able to overturn the decision and recover $120,000 in damages.
How to Handle a Rejected Hurricane Damage Claim
If your claim has been rejected, it’s not the end of the road. Here’s what you can do:
- Request a Detailed Explanation
Ask your insurer to provide specific reasons for the rejection. - Gather Additional Evidence
Collect more photos, contractor estimates, and expert opinions to strengthen your case. - Hire a Public Adjuster
Public adjusters are licensed professionals who advocate for you, not the insurance company. They understand the intricacies of policies and know how to maximize your payout.
Why Choose Florida Public Adjusting?
At Florida Public Adjusting, we specialize in handling rejected hurricane damage claims and turning denials into approvals. Our experienced team has a deep understanding of Florida’s insurance laws and a proven track record of securing maximum payouts for clients.
Whether you’re dealing with hurricane, water, mold, or fire damage, our process is simple:
- Free Policy Review: We’ll analyze your insurance policy to identify coverage gaps and opportunities.
- Expert Damage Assessment: Our team documents every detail of the damage to build a strong case.
- Negotiation with Insurers: We take on the stress of dealing with your insurance company, ensuring you receive the settlement you deserve.
Don’t Settle for Less
A rejected hurricane damage claim can feel like a setback, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to be. Florida Public Adjusting is here to guide you every step of the way, so you can rebuild with confidence.
Call us today for a free consultation, and let us fight to get you the payout you’re entitled to.
