For many homeowners, water damage is one of the most devastating disasters that can happen. That fear is not limited to the initial impact of the event but also extends to how you should handle it and what can be done to rectify it.
A report in 2020 stated that Miami-Dade County is one of the most vulnerable coastal cities in the country. It experiences regular flooding in the areas near shores.
In the worst-case scenario, you sustain severe damages and need to file a claim with your insurance provider. Since claims can be tricky to process, you need a public adjuster Miami to help you.
Causes of Water Damage
Water damage occurs when an unwanted or unexpected intrusion of water into your property causes harm. The most common reason is a break of some kind, whether in your water main, plumbing system, or appliance.
The second most common type of water damage occurs when the surface of your property becomes wet or moist after flooding, resulting in unsightly stains and odors that are dangerous to you and your loved ones.
For most people, the first inclination after a water damage event is to call a plumber or a contractor. While that’s often a good start, it is only half the picture and vital to engage a Miami adjuster to protect your interests and fully document the extent of your loss. Per the Florida Statutes, the adjuster needs to provide you a written estimate of loss within 60 days from the contract date.
Tips for Handling Water Damage
Shut Off Your Utilities
This should be done before any water is removed from the property to protect you and your property. At a minimum, you should shut off the water supply to any appliances or fixtures affected by the damage. If it’s not clear which appliances are at risk, err on the side of caution and turn them all off.
Dry out as much as you can before removing anything from your home.
Document it All
Even if you are not working with a water damage adjuster, document everything. Take photographs of all surrounding areas, including any additional damaged property or personal belongings affected by the event.
Also, please take careful note of where anything was located before you start removing it from your home. Taking a video is even better.
Consult an Adjuster
An adjuster will be able to provide you with best practices to protect your interests.
You can also contact an experienced Miami water damage claim lawyer to help you on the best way forward and protect any interest that insurance policies may not fully cover.
How Can a Public Adjuster in Miami Help?
Hurricane season in Miami lasts for half the year, and the city experiences around 80 days of thunderstorms every year, leaving your property vulnerable to water-related damages. If it happens, you should know that the insurance companies aren’t always out to help you.
That means that your company may not offer full coverage for all types of damage or property loss. They might try to settle for partial payment, telling you that you’ll receive more money this way than filing a full claim. But if your home is seriously damaged, you might be making a mistake by not filing for the maximum amount of compensation.
For example, major water damage can quickly lead to mold growth and structural damage that the naked eye cannot see. A public adjuster in Miami can help you file a claim and get the total amount your policy covers.
Don’t let your insurance company take undue advantage of you. Don’t settle for partial payment when you could receive more by filing a comprehensive claim. Contact a public adjuster in Miami to help you.
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