Hurricane Harvey Property Damage Insurance Claims Lawyer
After dealing with a catastrophe such as that Hurricane Harvey, people should be able to take comfort in knowing that their insurance policy will cover the damage sustained and help them to start over.
Sadly, insurance companies are notorious for putting their financial interests first. They may take advantage of their unsuspecting policyholders by shortchanging them or cutting corners. They may undervalue claims, delay payouts, or deny valid claims for coverage.
If you feel that your insurance company is treating you unfairly in the wake of property damage you have experienced due to Hurricane Harvey, call The Cook Law Firm right away for a free consultation. We will stop at nothing to ensure that you are given the full compensation you need and deserve.
Call The Cook Law Firm at (361) 541-4551
Making an Insurance Claim After Hurricane Harvey
Here are some steps to take when filing an insurance claim after a natural disaster such as Hurricane Harvey:
Call your insurer as soon as possible
Be prepared to provide them with your policy number, contact details, and an accurate description of the amount of property damage sustained. Insurers tend handle claims on a first come, first served basis—though they may be able to prioritize those who were affected the most. Explain if you have special needs or if there are any personal circumstances that require you to be given immediate attention.
Make an inventory of damaged property
Insurance companies often ask for an inventory of the damaged property. Make a thorough account of all items that were damaged by the storm. If possible, take photographs of them as well. Write down details of damaged items such as the approximate value and date of purchase. Keep receipts for related expenses such as for immediate repairs you may have had to make, as well as for living expenses like temporary accommodations and meals. Note that while you may get reimbursed for additional living expenses under wind claims, these may not be covered under flood insurance claims.
Refrain from discarding damaged items
While you may be eager to start cleaning up and moving on, avoid doing so until after the insurance adjuster has visited your home or business. Avoid making extensive repairs and throwing out damaged materials and items. If, however, the local government requires you to discard items for safety reasons, then take photographs of these before getting rid of them.
Document Everything
When filing a claim, it is important that you stay organized. Create a list of everyone you speak to about your claim, and include information such as their contact details and position, the date and time of your call, and what issues were discussed. Write down claim numbers, reference numbers, and anything else that may help the claims department find your case more easily. If possible, communicate with the insurance company via email or fax so you have proof of your exchanges.
Tips to Remember
Dealing with the insurance company can be difficult and even confusing.
Always keep these helpful tips in mind:
In Texas, insurance companies are required to acknowledge, evaluate, inspect, and either pay or deny your claim within a specific period of time. It is important to be patient, but persistent.
Be present when the insurance adjuster visits. See to it that he or she inspects your entire property, including the attic and other areas that you may not feel were damaged by the storm. Note down the areas visited and anything relevant that the adjuster may have said about your property.
Do not immediately assume that the insurance adjuster’s estimate is accurate. If possible, seek a second opinion from an independent contractor..
Keep your agent in the loop. A professional agent will help see to it that you are paid fairly and on time, and that your claim receives the attention it deserves.
Disputes with Insurance Companies
Though a large number of Texas residents have insurance policies, not all policyholders have actually filed a claim before. As such, they may be unfamiliar with the claims process and unsure about what they are rightfully owed.
Sadly, insurance companies are notorious for putting their financial interests first. They may take advantage of their unsuspecting policyholders by shortchanging them or cutting corners. They may undervalue claims, delay payouts, or deny valid claims for coverage.
If you feel that your insurance company is treating you unfairly in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, call The Cook Law Firm right away. We will stop at nothing to ensure that you are given the full compensation you need and deserve.
Call Us at (361) 541-4551 For a Free Case Evaluation.