Few things to know if you are affected by storm damage.

As I pack up today to get ready to head to Florida I wanted to get some knowledge on what to prepare for when speaking to homeowners. For anyone that lives in the sunshine state, you have 3 years to file the claim. If the roof isn't leaking yet don't panic. Here is a article from one of the top companies there. http://www.collisroofing.com/Hurricane-Irma-Help/How-Long-to-File-Claim

If you are in South Florida, consult with a public adjuster before calling in the claim. With the shortage of insurance adjusters compared to the amount of claims it is good to have one come check out the property before filing. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_adjuster

I work 99% hail claims and not a hurricane but the lesson still applies. Make sure you have someone there at the home to represent you when the adjuster shows up. I have talked to 1000's of homeowners over the year and such a high percentage of time when I ask was anyone present to meet the adjuster, the answer is no. You don't walk into court with no attorney do you? Same lesson applies here.

Very easy for an adjuster to hop up there and spend a few minutes and then just come down and tell the homeowner " sorry I don't see enough damage".

Another thing I hear often from homeowners. " I called my agent and they said it's fine" Listen folks "your agent" is just someone that makes a commission when you renew your policy. The agent has nothing to do with the claim. But you will get a Christmas card from them most likely :)

If you have ever been in a car wreck, did you call "your agent" ? Bet the agent didn't come to the scene of the accident.

And this is one of the most favorite ones I hear. " you are just scamming the insurance company" That is by far the funniest. One, if the insurance company is paying a claim, does that mean they scammed theirself? And next, no homeowner you are the one playing yourself actually. People have a tendacy to think, no leak, no problem mentallity. Not knowing that a year from now damage can cause leaks and may be to late to file the claim as some insurance companies may see it as pre-existing conditions and now you look like the irresposible homeower.

Final thought: Investing in a home is the biggest expense you will ever make. Don't think that cause you file a claim from hurricane, wind, hail damage. It is deemed as an act a God. Folks get scared thinking the rates will go up and the truth is that if you file a claim for a new roof or don't it doesn't matter because you have already lost. When you renew you will see the price go up slighlty, so if you have damage, get paid from it and fix it. Now if you go and cook dinner and burn the kitchen down than yes that is your fault and they will penalize you.

Hope this helps someone that may be affected. Just make sure you have a professional meet the adjuster if you feel you have any kind of damage from an act of God. Time for me to get back to packing.

your friend
Shawn