Hail Damage
Florida Hail Damage Attorneys
Hail storms can be incredibly destructive, causing billions of dollars in damage each year. Imagine large chunks of ice falling from the sky and wreaking havoc on your property. It's no wonder people are concerned about hail damage. In fact, the Insurance Information Institute reported that a major insurance company paid out over $3.5 billion in hail damage claims in 2022 alone. If your property has been damaged by hail, you might face challenges with your insurer when making a claim. At Fauntleroy & Satmary, P.A., our experienced hail damage attorneys are here to help you navigate the process and secure the compensation you deserve.
What Is Hail Damage?
Hail damage occurs when hailstones—formed as raindrops are carried into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere during thunderstorms—impact your property. Even in warm climates like Florida, hail is common during summer thunderstorms. Typical hail damage includes:
- Vehicle Damage: Dents, shattered glass, and other impacts to cars and boats.
- Roof Damage: Cracked or broken shingles, tiles, or metal panels.
- Outdoor Property Damage: Harm to patio furniture, decks, and other outdoor equipment.
- Crop Damage: Damage to food crops, which can overturn or destroy them.
Floridians face millions of dollars in losses each year due to hail damage. Our hail damage attorneys can help you get compensated for these losses.
Types of Hail Damage Typically Covered by Insurance
Insurance policies often cover various types of hail damage, especially in hail-prone areas like Florida. Coverage details can vary, so reviewing your policy documents to understand what is included and excluded is crucial. Here are common types of hail damage typically covered by insurance:
Automobile Damage
Comprehensive auto insurance usually covers hail damage to vehicles. This can include repairing dents, replacing shattered glass, and fixing other hail-caused damage. Be sure to know your deductible and any limitations on your policy.
Roof Damage
Homeowner’s insurance policies generally cover roof damage caused by hail. This may involve repairs or replacement of damaged roofing materials like shingles, tiles, or metal panels. The extent of coverage can depend on factors like the age of the roof and the severity of the damage.
Real Property Damage
Homeowner’s insurance may also cover hail damage to the exterior of your property, such as siding, paint, fences, and sheds. Insurance companies can be difficult when making claims for exterior property damage, often confusing usual wear and tear with hail damage. Keeping updated pictures of your property can help smooth the claim process.
Personal Property Damage
For renters or homeowners, personal property damaged by hail may be covered by insurance. This includes items like electronics, furniture, and other belongings.
Crop Damage
Agricultural insurance, including crop insurance, often covers damage to crops caused by hail. Farmers can file claims to receive compensation for lost yields or damaged crops.
What Should You Do If You Have Hail Damage?
Inspect for Damage
After the storm, thoroughly check your property for hail damage, including the roof, gutters, windows, paint, deck, doors, and siding. Also, check your personal property. Document all your findings with notes and photos.
Review Your Insurance Policy
Ensure your insurance policy covers hail damage. Check your deductible amount and understand the terms of your policy before filing a claim. This can make the process smoother. If you need help, speak with a hail damage attorney.
Get an Independent Estimate of the Damage
If the damage is substantial, consider hiring a contractor or adjuster to get a third-party opinion on the damage and repair costs. An independent estimate can help you accurately assess the total cost of damages and check if your insurance provider is underpaying your claim.
File a Claim with Your Insurer
Florida has strict time limits on filing a claim. Document and report any hail damage as soon as it is safe. After filing, your insurance company will likely send an adjuster to assess the damage.
Speak to a Hail Damage Attorney About Your Claim
Filing an insurance claim for hail damage can be challenging, especially with Florida's complex insurance laws. Insurance companies often use policy confusion to offer the smallest settlement possible. To maximize your recovery, work with a skilled hail damage attorney.
Contact Us Today
Don't let hail damage derail your life. When you work with a Florida hail damage attorney at Fauntleroy & Satmary, your insurance adjuster will take your claim more seriously, knowing they can't avoid their responsibility to pay you the benefits you deserve. Contact us online or call 813-320-0550 today to find out how we can assist you. Let Fauntleroy & Satmary be your advocate in securing the compensation you need to restore your property.