Louisiana Hurricane Insurance Claim Checklist

Louisiana hurricane insurance claim checklist steps are especially important now that hurricane season is starting. Without a plan, the claims process can quickly become overwhelming and full of frustrating delays. 

Our Louisiana hurricane damage lawyer will manage your complex insurance claim process after a storm so that you can receive the compensation you deserve. When it’s time to fight for what you’re owed, we will handle the paperwork, deadlines, and claim denials so that you don’t have to do it alone.

You Can Get Ready Before the Storm Hits

Taking the right steps before a hurricane arrives can make your claim go smoother later. Here’s how to prepare:

• Review your insurance policy: Know what’s covered and what’s not. Many policies exclude flood damage.
• Take photos and videos of your property: This gives you “before” evidence to compare with any damage.
• Store important documents safely: Keep copies of your insurance policy, identification (ID), and photos in a waterproof container or saved online.
• Write down contact info: Include your insurance agent’s number and the claims department hotline.

Step-by-Step Louisiana Hurricane Insurance Claim Checklist

Once the storm passes and it’s safe, follow these steps to protect your rights and start the claims process.

Document the Damage From the Storm

Start by taking clear photos and videos of all the damage:

• Inside and outside the home
• Roof, siding, windows, and fences
• Personal belongings, including furniture and electronics
• Vehicles or sheds, if covered by your policy

Don’t throw anything away yet. Your insurer may want to inspect it.

Make Temporary Repairs

To prevent further damage:

• Cover broken windows with plastic
• Use tarps for roof leaks
• Remove wet rugs or furniture to prevent mold

Keep receipts for all repair supplies. You may be reimbursed for your expenses.

Contact Your Insurance Company Promptly

Let your insurer know about the damage as soon as possible:

• Provide your policy number
• Share photos and videos
• Ask about what to do next

Write down the name of the person you speak with and what they say.

Keep a Claim Journal

Stay organized with a claim journal. You can use a notebook or your phone. Include:

• Dates and times you spoke with the insurance company
• Copies of emails or letters
• Notes about what was said
• A list of what you lost and estimated values

Cooperate With the Adjuster

Your insurance company may send someone to inspect your property. Be there if you can. Show them your list, photos, and damage.

If you disagree with the adjuster’s report, you have the right to get a second opinion from a contractor or lawyer.

Don’t Settle Too Fast

Insurance companies sometimes offer quick settlements to close the case. But if the offer is too low, you could be stuck with the bill for repairs later.

Take your time to understand the offer. You can ask a Louisiana storm damage lawyer to review it before you sign anything.

Common Problems With Louisiana Hurricane Insurance Claims

Even if you do everything right, you might still run into trouble. Common issues include:

• Claim delays or ignored calls
• Denied claims or underpaid settlements
• Blame placed on “wear and tear” instead of storm damage
• Confusing policy language

When this happens, getting legal help can make all the difference.

How a Lawyer Helps With a Hurricane Insurance Claim

An experienced hurricane insurance claim lawyer in Louisiana will:

• Handle all communications with the insurance company
• Collect the evidence you need
• Review your policy in full
• Help you understand what you’re owed
• Negotiate for a fair payment or go to court if needed

They will fight for your best outcome while you focus on your home and your family.

Don’t Miss the Deadline to File

Louisiana law gives most people two years to file a claim or lawsuit for hurricane damage under CC Art. 3493.1. However, deadlines can vary depending on your policy and the storm date. Waiting too long could hurt your case.

If you are not sure how much time you have, talk to our lawyer as soon as possible.

Can You Reopen a Hurricane Insurance Claim?

In some cases, you can reopen your claim. Sometimes, people accept a payment from their insurance company too early. Later, they might find more damage that wasn’t noticed right away.

Louisiana law may let you reopen your claim if you discover new damage or feel the payment was too low. Keep taking photos, saving receipts, and writing down what happens. 

If you feel like the insurance company didn’t treat you fairly, we can step in to help.

What You Can Do Now to Protect Your Claim

Here are a few simple ways to protect your claim and keep things organized:

• Save all records: Keep copies of emails, letters, bills, and receipts.
• Take photos: Snap pictures of the damage before and after you make any quick repairs.
• Read everything carefully: Do not sign any forms or agreements unless you fully understand them.
• Write it down: Keep a list of who you talked to, when you talked, and what they said.

These steps can make a big difference if you run into problems with your claim later.

Louisiana Hurricane Insurance Claim Help Is a Phone Call Away

Need help with your Louisiana hurricane insurance claim checklist? Laborde Earles is on your side. We have helped people across Louisiana recover from devastating storms for over 30 years. We’re not just lawyers—we’re neighbors, parents, and part of this community. 

With more than 350 years of combined experience and over $1 billion recovered for our clients, we know how to take on insurance companies and win. When you work with us, you won’t pay any upfront fees. 

We offer free consultations and work on contingency, which means you don’t owe us a thing unless we win for you. Our Louisiana Attorneys That Care will handle the hard part—gathering evidence, filing your claim, and standing up to the insurer—so you can focus on moving forward.

Contact us today.