Hailstorms can quickly wreak havoc on your home, shed, and car. In the aftermath of an unexpected hailstorm, you may be unsure what to do next or how to navigate your insurance claim.
However, the steps you take after the storm can make a huge difference. Let an experienced hailstorm claim lawyer facilitate a smooth claims process and seek adequate compensation from the insurer. They can also help you avoid the following mistakes that could ruin your claim.
Not Taking Clear Photos of the Damage
Evidence is key in a property damage claim. When you have photos and videos clearly showing the damage to your property, you can dispel any doubts in the insurance adjuster’s mind and prove your need for compensation.
The sooner you take photos of the damage, the better. You want the adjuster to see what the hail damage looked like immediately after it happened. If you begin mitigating the damage, such as by placing tarps over the roof or taping over broken windows, be sure to take photos beforehand.
Waiting Too Long To Report the Damage
At first glance, the hail damage might not seem too severe. You may not feel any urgency to report the damage to your insurance provider. Or maybe your property experienced other damage that you want to contend with first, such as a tree falling on your roof.
However, waiting too long to report the hail damage to your insurance company might lead to a denied hail insurance claim. Your policy may have specific deadlines for reporting damage and filing claims. Your hailstorm claim lawyer can help you understand any deadlines that apply to your situation.
Not Seeking Multiple Repair Estimates
As part of the homeowners' insurance claims process, you will want to seek repair estimates to gain a fair assessment of the value of the damage. Some homeowners simply schedule one estimate and take the contractor’s word for it. However, you’ll do better to seek estimates from several local contractors and compare each of their valuations.
Doing so allows you to gain a better understanding of how much the repairs will cost and, therefore, how much money the insurance company should give you. If you were to accept the cheapest estimate, you risk only receiving enough money to pay for low-quality work.
Not Being Present During the Insurance Adjuster’s Inspection
The insurance adjuster will schedule a time to come to your home and assess the hail damage. It helps to have your preferred contractor and hailstorm claim lawyer at the appointment to speak with the adjuster about the extent of repairs. But if this isn’t possible, you should at least ensure that you are present during the inspection.
You will have the opportunity to walk through your property with the adjuster and point out all necessary repairs. This will help you avoid an insurance dispute for hail damage, as the adjuster cannot claim they did not know about certain damage.
Not Hiring a Hailstorm Claim Lawyer
Roof hail damage claims can be complicated, and insurers sometimes deny these claims if they do not have all the details. Working with an experienced hail damage attorney can help you improve your claim outcomes and streamline this process.
A hailstorm litigation lawyer can communicate with the insurance adjuster on your behalf, protect your rights to the stated coverage in your policy, and appeal unfair claim denials. If you are facing a complicated or overwhelming insurance claim, a property damage lawyer can provide significant peace of mind.
McLaurin Law PLLC is here to provide hailstorm claim assistance in the greater Houston, TX, area. Contact us today at 713-461-6500 to schedule a consultation with an experienced hailstorm claim lawyer.
