Texas is no stranger to hurricanes. In 2020 alone, Texas was hit by five named storms, including Hurricanes Hanna and Laura. As a Texas commercial property owner, it is important to know the risks associated with hurricane season, learn how to protect your business and commercial property, and understand the steps to take if a hurricane damages your business or commercial property.
Filing a commercial hurricane insurance claim can be an overwhelming and confusing process, especially when dealing with the aftermath of your first significant storm. Properly filing your commercial hurricane insurance claim requires a thorough understanding of the standards and procedures for effectively securing coverage for your loss. In order to simplify the process and increase your chances of obtaining the maximum recovery from your commercial insurance carrier, it is critical to know the common mistakes to avoid when filing a commercial hurricane insurance claim. In this blog, our hurricane claim lawyer discusses the potential pitfalls of submitting a claim and shares tips on preparing yourself for future claims.
Continue reading to learn more, then contact us at (713) 461-6500 to schedule a free strategy session. McLaurin Law, PLLC: when you need more than luck on your side.
Mistake #1: Not Understanding Your Insurance Policy
Before filing an insurance claim after a hurricane, review the terms and conditions of your policy. Ensure you understand your policy coverage, deductible, and the specific types of coverage your policy does and does not include.
Of course, the best time to familiarize yourself with your policy is before a hurricane strikes. Knowing the details of your commercial hurricane insurance policy can help you make informed decisions when purchasing a policy so that you obtain a policy that ensures adequate coverage in the event of hurricane damage. Conversely, misunderstanding your policy can result in significant delays in the claim process, financial loss, and denied claims.
Whether you’re dealing with hurricane damage, or just unsure of what to look for in a comprehensive commercial hurricane insurance policy, consulting a commercial property insurance lawyer to navigate your policy’s complex language and standards is a must. A hurricane claim lawyer can protect your rights and help you receive fair compensation after a hurricane. Don't assume you understand your policy—seek professional guidance to protect your investment.
Mistake #2: Failing to Properly Document All Hurricane Damage to Your Commercial Property
After a hurricane, take photos or videos of the damage to your business and commercial property as soon as possible. Documenting and accounting for all damages will help you provide the necessary supporting documentation/information to your commercial insurance carrier during the claim handling process.
Mistake #3: Neglecting to File Your Commercial Hurricane Insurance Claim on Time
Most policies have deadlines for filing claims after a hurricane; failing to submit your hurricane damage claim within the timeframe specified in your policy could cause your insurance company to deny your claim, in whole or in part.
Mistake #4: Accepting the First Offer & Not Consulting an Attorney
When filing an insurance claim after a hurricane, don’t accept the first offer from the insurance company, particularly before you’ve consulted with an attorney. Insurance companies typically offer a lower settlement than what you are entitled under the policy or required to repair or replace your damaged property. Therefore, it’s essential to consult an experienced attorney who can help you counter the insurance company’s initial offer.
Mistake #5: Misrepresenting the Damage to Your Commercial Property
Don’t misrepresent damage when filing an insurance claim after a hurricane. If your insurer discovers this, it could result in a denied claim, or a potential criminal charge for fraud. When filing a claim, stick to the facts and be honest.
Mistake #6: Failing to Maintain Effective Records of Costs & Communication with Your Commercial Insurance Company
Keep detailed records—including emails, letters, and phone calls—of all costs associated with repair or replacement of storm damaged property and communications between you and the insurance company and its representatives during the claims process. This documentation helps ensure a smooth process and prevent potential disputes.
McLaurin Law, PLLC: When You Need More Than Luck on Your Side for Your Texas Commercial Hurricane Insurance Claim
Filing a commercial hurricane insurance claim in Texas is a complex process that requires a thorough understanding of your policy. While it’s tempting for business owners to handle commercial hurricane insurance claims on their own, seeking legal guidance from experienced Houston insurance lawyers is vital to avoid these common mistakes.
Have you been searching online for an “insurance claims attorney near me?” At McLaurin Law, PLLC, we passionately protect the rights of Texans against insurance companies. Our commercial property insurance lawyer can help you choose the best policy for your property before a hurricane strikes and guide you through the claims process if a hurricane damages your business. We understand the devastating impacts of these natural disasters on your commercial property and livelihood and will fight for your rights throughout the process. Ensure that your commercial insurance policy compensates you fairly. Call us today at (713) 461-6500 or complete our online form to schedule a free strategy session.
