What Mistakes to Avoid in a Hurricane Damage Claim

What mistakes to avoid in a hurricane damage claim include under–documenting losses, missing important deadlines, miscommunicating with insurance adjusters, and not understanding your policy terms.

These errors can lead to reduced compensation or even complete claim denial—often at a time when homeowners need support the most.

The aftermath of a hurricane is already overwhelming. Between temporary living arrangements and storm cleanup, it’s easy to overlook insurance requirements or rush through paperwork. A Louisiana hurricane damage lawyer can help guide the process and reduce the chance of critical missteps that may cost you later.

From documenting property losses to handling insurer communications, each step plays a critical role. With so much at stake financially, many choose to seek guidance from a hurricane damage claim lawyer to avoid costly missteps and improve their chances of a fair settlement.

Failing to Document the Damage Clearly

We’ve seen many people run into trouble because the damage wasn’t properly recorded. Insurance companies rely heavily on proof to validate the scope of loss, and without strong documentation, claims often get delayed, underpaid, or denied altogether.

To help support a claim:

• Take photos and videos: Make sure they’re timestamped and include both interior and exterior damage—roofing, walls, ceilings, flooring, appliances, furniture, and personal items. Capture wide shots as well as close-ups of specific issues, such as cracks, water stains, or torn shingles.
• Save receipts: Store documentation for emergency repairs, hotel stays, meals, gas, and temporary living expenses. These may be reimbursable under your policy, but only if you can show clear records that link them to the hurricane damage.
• Keep a damage journal: Note the dates when problems appear or worsen, list items that were lost, and track any contractors or adjusters who visit your home. Include contact names, what was discussed, and any follow-up tasks.

In addition to these records, consider using an inventory app or spreadsheet to log personal belongings, especially if high-value items were affected. Taking this step early makes it easier to verify losses during the claims process. 

Strong documentation doesn’t just clarify what happened—it helps protect your credibility and gives the insurer fewer reasons to dispute your claim. If your insurance company refuses your claim, a Louisiana insurance claim lawyer can help. 

Delaying the Claims Process

Time is not on your side after a hurricane and during hurricane season. We’ve seen people lose out on compensation simply because they waited too long to file.

Here’s how to avoid that issue:

• Review your policy immediately: Most policies have short timeframes for reporting hurricane damage.
• Act quickly: The longer you wait, the more opportunity there is for evidence to degrade or go missing.
• Log all communication: Track when and how you notify the insurer to protect yourself from any disputes later on.

Filing early also helps show that you’re acting in good faith and taking the claim seriously.

Providing Vague or Inaccurate Information

Even small inconsistencies in your statements can raise red flags with insurance adjusters. We’ve seen cases where unclear details led to lower settlement offers or full denials.

When speaking with insurers:

• Be specific: Describe what happened and when with as much detail as possible.
• Avoid guessing: If you’re unsure about something, it’s better to say so than to provide incorrect information.
• Use written communication when possible: Emails and letters create a paper trail that’s easy to reference later.

Staying consistent and factual protects your credibility and strengthens your position.

Misunderstanding What the Policy Covers

It’s common for homeowners to assume their policy covers all types of storm damage, but exclusions and special clauses are often hidden in the fine print.

Here’s what to double-check:

• Exclusions: Look for language excluding flood, mold, or wind-driven rain damage.
• Special deductibles: Some policies have higher deductibles for named storms or hurricane events.
• Additional steps: Certain policies require using specific contractors or filing through online portals.

If the language is confusing or unclear, we can review it and explain your coverage options in plain terms.

Cleaning Up Too Quickly

We understand the urge to clear out debris and move on, but doing so before documenting everything can seriously hurt your claim.

To protect your evidence:

• Don’t discard damaged items: Keep them until they’ve been inspected or clearly photographed.
• Photograph before repairs: Even if you need to make emergency fixes, capture images of the damage beforehand.
• Save repair estimates and invoices: These documents help demonstrate the value of the loss.

In short, treat your property like a crime scene—preserve it until your claim is fully underway.

Accepting the First Settlement Offer

Insurance companies may offer quick settlements that don’t fully account for long-term repair costs or hidden damage. We often see people accept low payouts just to move forward, only to regret it later.

Before accepting an offer:

• Compare it to actual repair costs: Don’t assume the insurer’s valuation is accurate.
• Look for potential future damage: Issues like mold or structural weakness may not show up right away.
• Consult a professional: A hurricane damage claim lawyer can assess the offer and negotiate for more if it’s unfair.

Once a settlement is accepted, it’s usually final. Make sure it reflects the true scope of the damage.

Need Help With a Hurricane Claim?

At Laborde Earles, we’ve helped families across Louisiana handle the insurance process after devastating storms. We know how to push back when insurers undervalue or delay legitimate claims, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

If you’re dealing with hurricane damage, don’t risk your recovery by going it alone. Contact us to speak with a hurricane damage claim lawyer and get the support you need—because you deserve more than just a payout. You deserve peace of mind.