If your hurricane damage claim is underpaid, you should request a detailed explanation from the insurance company, compare the payment to actual repair estimates, gather supporting evidence, and consider disputing the decision through formal channels.
A claim that doesn’t fully cover your losses can stall your recovery and place an unexpected financial burden on your household. Underpaid claims can happen for many reasons, including adjuster oversight, incomplete inspections, or misinterpretation of policy terms.
By understanding the steps to take after receiving a low settlement offer and working with a Louisiana hurricane damage lawyer, homeowners can better position themselves to secure the full compensation they’re entitled to.
Review the Settlement Breakdown Carefully
When we meet with clients after a storm, the first thing we do is ask for the insurance company’s payment explanation. Every homeowner has the right to understand how their settlement was calculated.
We look for red flags such as:
- Missing repairs: Important areas like roofing, framing, or electrical damage may be left out of the insurer’s estimate.
- Lowball pricing: Some insurers use outdated or national averages that don’t reflect current labor and materials costs in Louisiana.
- Questionable deductions: Items might be depreciated or excluded based on vague policy language that needs further review.
It’s also important to verify that all components of your home are accounted for—sometimes, entire rooms or features like fencing, garages, or outdoor units are left out of the adjuster’s notes. Overlooking these details can significantly reduce your final payout.
A Louisiana insurance claim lawyer can help protect you from reduced settlements.
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.
ClientCompare the Offer to Actual Repair Costs
A surprising number of policyholders assume the insurance company’s offer reflects true costs. In reality, the first estimate is often far too low.
To verify the value of your claim:
- Get independent estimates: Local contractors can provide updated pricing that reflects the actual cost of labor and materials in your area.
- Include hidden or secondary damage: Mold, electrical problems, and foundational issues may not be immediately visible but are often related to the storm.
- Cross–reference with the insurer’s list: Identify exactly where the numbers don’t align.
You may also want to consult specialists in roofing, HVAC, or structural engineering, especially if your home sustained heavy wind or water intrusion. These experts can uncover damage that general contractors or adjusters might miss entirely.
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 | ClientGather Additional Documentation
Insurers often base their decisions on incomplete inspections or limited information. Submitting additional evidence can help strengthen your claim.
We advise homeowners to:
- Retake photos and videos: Updated images can show damage that has worsened or wasn’t visible at first.
- Save all receipts and invoices: These documents support reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses.
- Create a damage timeline: Record when issues were first noticed, what steps were taken, and how the insurer responded.
Documentation should also include copies of prior inspections or maintenance reports if they help prove the home was in good condition before the storm. This can prevent insurers from blaming damage on “pre-existing conditions.”
The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.
ClientFile a Formal Dispute With the Insurer
If the insurance company won’t make changes after informal discussions, we often help clients file a formal dispute. This usually involves written communication that outlines exactly why the payout is insufficient.
A dispute should include:
- A detailed letter outlining discrepancies
- Policy sections that support your claim
- Supporting documents like expert estimates or inspection reports
It’s helpful to request a second inspection if major issues were missed the first time. You also have the option to request an appraisal, which involves each side hiring an appraiser and, if needed, a neutral umpire to resolve the dispute. This process can lead to a fairer outcome without going to court.
They treated us like no other people would. Whenever we needed something they were there for us. I put my trust in them and I don’t regret it.
ClientDon’t Sign Anything Too Quickly
After a storm, it’s tempting to cash the check and move on, but doing so could permanently limit your options.
We caution homeowners to review all paperwork carefully:
- Watch for settlement language: Signing or depositing a check may legally signal that you’ve accepted the amount as final.
- Hold off on waivers: Don’t sign any waiver of rights or releases unless the terms are fully understood.
- Check for dispute clauses: Some documents include hidden language that restricts your ability to take legal action.
Taking the time to read every clause—even the fine print—can make all the difference if new damage is discovered or if repairs cost more than expected.
Know When to Involve Legal Support
Unfortunately, some insurers delay, deflect, or deny payment even when the evidence clearly supports a higher payout. That’s when legal guidance becomes essential.
At Laborde Earles, we work with clients whose claims were unfairly reduced or undervalued. We handle:
- Policy reviews and interpretation
- Claim appeals and settlement negotiations
- Bad faith insurance claims, when applicable
If you’ve already submitted evidence and followed the dispute process but still haven’t received a fair amount, an attorney can step in to escalate the claim and apply legal pressure. Insurance companies are more likely to take the claim seriously when they know you’re represented.
Talk to a Hurricane Damage Claim Lawyer Today
You paid for hurricane insurance to protect your home, not to fight an uphill battle after the storm. If your hurricane damage claim is underpaid, don’t settle for less than what it will take to restore your property and your peace of mind.
At Laborde Earles, we help Louisiana families stand up to unfair insurance tactics. Let us review your claim, gather additional evidence, and push for the compensation you truly deserve.
Reach out today to speak with a hurricane damage claim lawyer and take the next step toward getting your home and life back on track.
