Louisiana is a high-risk state for hurricanes.
The storms cause tragic human loss and leave devastating property damage in their wake. Dealing with an uncooperative insurance company can feel like trying to weather a second disaster.
If your home took a hit and your provider isn’t cooperating, don’t wait to take action.
Get in touch with an experienced attorney who can help with your hurricane damage insurance claim.
What Hurricane Damage Qualifies for a Claim?
Homeowners insurance in Louisiana often covers hurricane damage for named storms that meet criteria set by the National Hurricane Center.
Hurricane coverage typically applies to your home’s structure and belongings. Damage to fences, sheds, or detached garages might also qualify, depending on your policy. Wind, wind-driven rain, and flying debris are covered under most policies, but flooding usually isn’t.
You’ll need separate flood insurance for that. Be sure to take photos, document the damage, and report all hurricane damage to your provider after a storm, even if it seems minor. Insurers often push back to avoid providing full payment, so the more proof you have early on, the stronger your claim will be.
Key Coverages and Understanding Your Deductible
Standard homeowners policies cover different types of hurricane-related damage under different terms. Wind and hail damage usually falls under your main dwelling coverage. Rain damage coverage might only apply if it results from wind damage.
Due to the frequency of hurricanes striking Louisiana, many insurance policies have a named-storm or hurricane deductible that policyholders must meet, in addition to their standard deductibles.
A hurricane deductible is often a percentage of the home’s insured value, which means your out-of-pocket costs could easily be thousands of dollars. Always review your policy details before a storm hits so you know what to expect.
Hurricane Damage Insurance Claims Process in Louisiana
After a storm, you can start the hurricane insurance claim process by documenting the damage in detail.
Take photos, create an inventory of damaged items, and file your claim with your insurer promptly. Louisiana law gives insurers 30 days to start processing your property damage claim once you notify them.
However, after a natural disaster, insurance companies may be granted extensions due to the sudden influx of claims resulting from hurricane damage.
Once your claim is underway, the adjuster should promptly inspect your home, assess the damage, and provide an estimate.
If you get a lowball settlement offer or experience long delays, follow up with your insurer in writing. Keep records of all communication. If your provider doesn’t pay you fairly or on time, consider hiring legal representation.
What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied or Underpaid
If your hurricane insurance claim is denied or you receive an offer for far less than it’s worth, you don’t have to accept the insurer’s decision as final.
Review the denial letter and your policy carefully. Gather documentation, such as photos, receipts, and contractor estimates, to challenge their decision. Many insurers count on claimants not pushing back.
A hurricane claims lawyer can help you hold them accountable and fight to recover what you’re owed based on your policy terms.
When to Consult a Hurricane Claims Lawyer
You should talk to an attorney as soon as you run into any problems with your claim. Delays, vague responses, and unreasonably low estimates are red flags that signal the need for legal counsel.
A hurricane damage lawyer can review your policy, spot coverage gaps, and manage negotiations for you. Insurance companies have legal teams protecting their interests, so you should, too.
Contact a Hurricane Damage Attorney Now
Insurance Claim HQ helps homeowners across Louisiana push back when insurance companies delay, underpay, or deny valid claims. If your insurer is giving you the runaround after a hurricane, we’re ready to step in.
Contact us now for a free consultation.
