Before the next big storm hits, you can take 10 steps today to protect your chance at receiving a full and fair payout should you need to submit a claim for storm or hurricane damage. Knowing what to do now helps protect your home, belongings, and your peace of mind.
Many people don’t think about their insurance until they need it, but getting an insurance company to approve a valid claim for storm damage isn’t always easy. It takes clear records, strong proof, and a strategy for dealing with delays or denials.
Insurance claims after a storm can be complex, frustrating, and filled with red tape. That’s where our experienced storm damage lawyers in Lafayette come in. We will explain your rights, gather what’s needed, and fight for a fair outcome for the damages the insurance company owes you.
How to Get Ahead of Insurance Problems Before a Storm Hits
Storm season can bring more than just wind and rain. It can also bring tough decisions about repairs, insurance, and how to move forward after a loss. Filing a claim for damages is hard enough. However, without the right records or proof, it can be even harder.
The best way to avoid these problems is to prepare early. Below are 10 steps you can take today to make sure your claim stands on solid ground. The sooner you prepare, the easier it will be to protect your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind.
Review Your Insurance Policy Carefully
Know what your policy does and doesn’t cover. Read the fine print, including deductibles, exclusions, and special storm clauses. Look for limits on wind, hail, or flood damage. If you don’t understand something, ask for help now before it becomes a problem.
Take Photos and Videos of Your Property Now
Before a storm ever hits, document what your property looks like. Walk through your home and snap clear photos or video of rooms, furniture, and valuables. This gives you proof of what you owned and what condition everything was in before the damage.
Store Records in a Safe, Accessible Place
Keep your insurance documents, photos, and receipts in a waterproof folder or store them digitally in the cloud. After a storm, access to these items may be limited, so having digital backups can speed up your claim process.
Make a Home Inventory List
List everything you own—electronics, appliances, furniture, and personal items. Includthe e make, model, price, and where you bought it, if possible. This helps the insurance company verify your losses and value them accurately.
Keep Copies of All Repairs and Upgrades
If you have repaired your roof, upgraded windows, or reinforced your home in any way, keep the receipts and paperwork. These updates can show you took steps to protect your property and may increase the value of your claim.
Report Damage to Your Insurer Right Away
Call your insurance company as soon as it’s safe to do so after the storm. Your safety and your family’s well-being should come first. Provide basic details and follothe w instructions the company gives you. Delays in reporting may lead to delays or denials of your claim.
Take Photos of the Damage Immediately
If your home suffers storm damage, take clear photos and videos before cleanup or repairs. Get wide shots and close-ups. This visual proof is one of the best ways to support your claim and show the full extent of the damage.
Make Temporary Repairs to Prevent More Damage
Cover broken windows, put a tarp on the roof, or do what you can to keep things from getting worse, but don’t make full repairs yet. Keep all receipts for materials and labor, as these may be reimbursed.
Track All Costs and Expenses After the Storm
If you have to leave your home or stay in a hotel, save all receipts. Many policies cover temporary living costs, meals, and travel when your home becomes unlivable. Keep a written log of dates and expenses.
Get Legal Help if Your Insurance Company Delays or Denies Your Claim
Insurance companies don’t always play fair. If they delay, underpay, or deny your claim, talk to a hurricane insurance lawyer right away. Our personal injury lawyer in Lafayette can help gather evidence, deal with the insurer, and file a lawsuit if needed.
Following these 10 steps gives you a strong foundation if you need to file a storm-related insurance claim. However, even when you do everything right, insurance companies can still make the process hard.
Laborde Earles injury was great for me they took care of me very fast and professional. If for any reason I need legal help they will be who I use.
ClientWhat Happens If You Don’t Follow These Steps?
Failing to take these early steps can lead to big problems later. Insurance companies often reject claims because of missing documents, unclear damage timelines, or lack of proof.
If you wait too long to report the damage or can’t show what your property looked like before the storm, your insurer may argue that the storm did not cause the damage or that you didn’t do your part to prevent it.
You might also lose money if you don’t track your costs or keep receipts. Even something as small as forgetting to document a repair or temporary hotel stay could hurt your case. Taking the time now to prepare can save you a lot of stress later.
I thank God for Digger & David. I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t have been for them.
Rick Smith | ClientLet Our Louisiana Attorneys File Your Valid Insurance Claim
If you need help following the 10 steps to ensure your insurance claim is valid, our team of experienced Louisiana attorneys at Laborde Earles Law Firm, LLC, is on your side. For 30 years, we’ve helped many families across the state take on big insurance companies after hurricanes and major storms.
With over 350 years of combined legal experience and over $1 billion secured for our clients, we know how to prepare claims, gather proof, and fight for every dollar you deserve. We can start right away, and you pay us nothing unless we win.
Keep in mind that time limits are short for injury lawsuits under CC Art. 3493.1. You generally have two years to take legal action in most cases, so don’t wait. Call us today for a free consultation and start your claim with a team that’s on your side.
