Homeowners insurance is one of the most important types of insurance in Florida. As a homeowner in Florida, you should have an understanding of the most common types of claims so you can be prepared if they occur at your home.
#1 Wind Damage
Wind damage is the most common type of homeowners insurance claim in Florida. Wind damage is typically caused by hurricanes, which can bring high winds that break windows and cause roof and siding damage.
This type of damage is especially common during hurricane season—between June 1 and November 30 each year.
Wind damage can also be caused by tornadoes, which are less common but still happen often enough to be considered a serious threat in Florida. Tornadoes are rare, but they can cause extensive damage to your home and property.
If you have had wind damage caused by a hurricane or other weather-related event, you should call a public adjuster immediately to help you file an insurance claim with your insurance company.
#2 Water Damage
Water damage is another common type of homeowners insurance claim. It can be caused by a leaking roof, burst pipes, or flooding.
For example, if your toilet overflowed and your house flooded, this would be considered water damage. Another example is if your roof started leaking and caused damage to your ceiling or floors.
If you have water damage to your home, you should start by calling a public adjuster as soon as possible. They will come out and do a full inspection of your home, take photos and videos of the damage, and write up an estimate for the cost to repair it, which would then be submitted to your insurance company.
#3 Lightning Damage
Lightning strikes are one of the most common types of damage seen in Florida, especially during hurricane season. In fact, according to data from the Insurance Information Institute (III), more than half of all claims for homeowners insurance relate to weather events, and lightning is one of the most common causes of these claims.
The key thing to remember when filing a claim after a lightning strike is that it’s important to call your public adjuster right away. The sooner you call them after a strike happens, the more likely they will be able to help you get the funds you’re owed from your insurance company and get your home back into shape quickly—and they’ll also be able to help with any other problems that may arise.
#4 Fire Damage
When you have a fire at home, it can be devastating. You not only have to deal with the loss of your belongings and the destruction of your home, but there can also be other issues that come up as a result of the fire.
The most common type of fire damage occurs when an electrical or gas appliance malfunctions and causes flames to spread throughout your home. A fire can also be caused by careless smoking, unattended open flames like candles or incense, or even arson. In all cases, make sure you don’t put yourself in harm’s way when trying to put out the fire—call 911 immediately.
It’s important that you call a public adjuster as soon as possible, if you’ve experienced a fire in your home. A public adjuster can help you get the money you need to rebuild or repair your home.
Working with a Florida Public Adjuster
It’s important to work with a public adjuster, a licensed professional who works on your behalf to help you get the money you’re owed for your insurance claim. A public adjuster can help you navigate the claims process and maximize your insurance payout.
Although we’ve listed the most common types of home insurance claims in Florida, there are also many other types of insurance claims. If you have questions about your policy or need help filing any type of homeowners insurance claim, contact Horizon Public Adjusters today. We’re here for you!