The dangers of a flood and how a public adjuster can help.
Everyone knows South Florida because of its beautiful coastline and all-year-long sunny weather. But Florida is no stranger to flash floods and the effects of flood damage. In fact, many highly populated areas reside within a declared flood zone.
A highly populated area within Downtown Fort Lauderdale experienced torrential downpours and powerful winds continuously for an extended period from April 9-12, 2023. Resulting in flash flooding, inaccessible streets, damage to cars, damaged city infrastructure, and of course, commercial and residential property damage.
These links can provide you with resources to view where your home or business lies within or outside of a flood zone.
The aftermath of a flood disaster and how a public adjuster can help.
Flash floods can occur with little to no warning and are usually the result of heavy rainfall from a powerful thunderstorm, tropical storm, or hurricane. Floods pose a risk to homes, businesses, and city infrastructure. The aftermath of a flood can be filled with a lengthy recovery process depending on how extensive the damage is.
Here is a list of damage commonly associated with a flood.
- Structural damage: Floods can cause severe structural damage to homes, including the foundation, walls, and roof. This damage can compromise the integrity of the building, making it unsafe for anyone to remain inside the property.
- Electrical hazards: Floodwaters can damage electrical systems, leading to short circuits and electrical fires. It’s essential to have a professional assess and repair any electrical damage before returning to your home or business.
- Loss of valuables: Flash floods can destroy valuable possessions, such as electronics, furniture, personal items, and business equipment.
- Mold and mildew: The presence of water and the increased humidity due to the water can lead to the growth of mold and mildew in your home or business. Addressing water damage in a timely manner is critical because the growth of mold and mildew can pose health risks for you and anyone inside the property.
Flood Insurance vs. Homeowners Insurance
Many homeowners mistakenly believe that their homeowners’ insurance policy will cover flood damage. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Flood insurance is a separate policy that must be purchased to provide coverage for flood-related damage to your property.
Here are some key differences to understand between flood insurance and homeowners insurance.
- Coverage: Homeowner’s insurance typically covers damage caused by events such as fire, theft, or wind – while flood insurance is specifically designed to cover damage resulting from flooding. Water damage and flood damage are different, and flood insurance is a policy used to address damages associated with a flood.
- Expected Payout: Homeowner’s insurance policies usually have a set limit for the amount they will pay for a single claim. Flood insurance policies have separate limits for building coverage and contents coverage. In some instances, a homeowner will need to file a claim with both their homeowner’s insurance policy and flood insurance policy to receive the compensation they need to restore their property to its pre-loss condition.
How a Florida Public Adjuster can help you with a flood damage claim.
After a flood, it’s important to first ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. The devastation experienced by a flood event caused by a storm or tropical system is usually on a grand scale that hundreds to thousands experience at the same time. The aftermath can be filled with an overwhelming sensation. Working with a Florida Public Adjuster after a flood can help relieve some of the burden from your shoulders.
Public adjusters are licensed professionals who can help homeowners navigate the insurance claims process while maximizing their expected payout.
Here are some ways a public adjuster can help you:
- Properly assessing the damage to your property: A public adjuster will evaluate the extent of the damage to your property and help you document it properly. This is crucial for submitting a comprehensive and accurate insurance claim.
- Negotiating with your insurance company: Public adjusters have experience dealing with insurance companies and can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive a proper settlement.
- Maximizing your claim: Public adjusters are knowledgeable about policy details and can help you identify any additional coverage that may be available to you.
- Save time and reduce stress: Handling a flood insurance claim can be time-consuming and confusing. A public adjuster can manage this process for you, allowing you to focus on recovering from the disaster.
If your home or business was damaged, contact Triumph Consulting.
Call 954-669-4935 now for a free claim review, or go to WeGetYouPaid.com