Posted on January 12, 2022
ICHQ | Site Author
For Louisiana residents, hurricanes are an unwelcome and potentially devastating part of life. The damage that hurricanes cause lead residents to file hurricane insurance claims, but these claims aren’t always as simple as they may seem. The insurance claims process can be complicated and drawn out, which can cause significant anxiety and hardship for people struggling to rebuild after a natural disaster.
At Insurance Claim HQ, we know the difference between the right and wrong ways to file a hurricane damage claim. Having an experienced hurricane damage attorney on your side can help you avoid common mistakes and help you get the maximum recovery possible.
In this article, we will cover how long you have to file an insurance claim, what factors may affect your claim, and how an experienced attorney can help you through the insurance claims process.
RELATED: As Hurricane Season Approaches, Do You Have the Right Insurance?
What is the Time Limit on Filing My Insurance Claim?
The length of time you have to file an insurance claim will vary depending on what state you live in. However, in Louisiana, hurricane insurance claims must be filed within 180 days of the incident. If you or a loved one has suffered property damage from a hurricane and are planning to file an insurance claim, be sure to do so before your deadline.
Although 180 days is the standard deadline for Louisiana hurricane claims, this deadline can be extended in certain situations. If you are unable to reach your property to access the damage due to a state of emergency or disaster, you may have additional time to gather evidence and file your claim.
Policy Deadlines Vary by Insurance Company
Even though you have 180 days to file a claim in Louisiana, that does not necessarily mean you can wait nearly that long to reach out to your insurance company.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies require potential claimants to notify the insurance company as soon as possible of any event that is likely to result in a claim. If you don’t give prompt enough notice, your claim may be denied on the grounds that you failed to comply with the policy and did not allow the insurer the ability to properly investigate the loss.
It is important to double check your homeowner’s insurance policy before and after hurricane damage occurs to be sure you don’t miss your deadline. Knowing your insurance policy’s deadline can save you long-term hardships and prevent any potential loss.
Why You Should File Sooner Rather Than Later
Hurricane insurance claims are not as straightforward as some other property damage insurance claims. Due to the degree of damage and impact hurricanes have on property and its surroundings, it can take longer than usual to gather, access, and file evidence that may make or break your case. If these investigations go over your deadline, you risk being denied the compensation you deserve.
Investigating Costs: Temporary Repairs, Additional Living Expenses, and More
Your homeowner’s insurance policy may cover more than just initial property damage. Looking through your policy to see if you have adequate coverage can help you determine what may or may not be covered for such expenses when filing your insurance claim. There are many covered costs associated with hurricane damage that may surprise you.
For example, some homeowner’s insurance policies cover unforeseen costs associated with losing access to your home, such as additional living expenses required to survive without a home. These could include rent for a temporary living space or hotel room, meals, transportation, or even clothing costs. Although not all policies cover these expenses, checking your policy carefully could help significantly increase your total recovery by ensuring you don’t leave out any expenses you’re entitled to claim.
Insurance companies will also occasionally cover the costs required to make temporary repairs to your home after a disaster. Keep your receipts for materials used in temporary repairs as evidence for your insurance agent or insurance adjuster to potentially increase your recovery settlement. Be sure to speak with your agent or adjuster and contact the Better Business Bureau in your area before signing any contracts for temporary or permanent repairs.
Depending on the type of damage your property sustains, you may also need to consider if you are covered with flood insurance before you file a claim. Homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage, which could lead to higher costs and less compensation for your damages. Resources are available, such as the National Flood Insurance Program, to help protect you from this specific type of damage.
Even though these extra opportunities increase your potential insurance claim recovery, they will add time to your claim’s processing. Every potential replacement cost will need evidence and assessment, so be sure to plan ahead and get help when you need it.
Related: What Does a Residential Insurance Policy Cover?
How an Experienced Attorney Can Streamline Your Claim
When filing an insurance claim after a hurricane, things can get complicated fast. Having an experienced team of insurance claim attorneys, like those at Insurance Claim HQ, can make a significant difference in the speed and success of your claim. Hiring an attorney sooner rather than later can streamline your claim, help you avoid making preventable mistakes that may hurt your case, help identify your deductible, and increase your chances of a fair recovery.
Insurance Claim HQ: Fighting for Hurricane Damage Victims in New Orleans, Louisiana
At Insurance Claim HQ, we fight back against insurance companies who wrongfully deny the insurance claims to those who need it most. If you or a loved one has suffered property damage from a hurricane and are unsure what to do next, call Insurance Claim HQ at 844-587-8395 or contact us through this simple form to schedule your free claim evaluation.
References
The content provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject.
