Home & Business Insurance Claims

Practice Areas: Home & Business Insurance Claims

Florida is a uniquely difficult venue for handling property damage claims. The perils in Florida are as extensive as can be imagined. Our state has a seemingly growing number of hurricanes and is prone to hail storms, lightning strikes, high winds, floods, animal infestations, mold, and sinkholes. High winds can cause damage to roofs, screens, and fences. Residences and businesses can be afflicted by burst pipes, water overflows, and leaks. Sadly, crime rates have increased in most parts of the state and there are far too many incidents of arson and vandalism. As beautiful as Florida is, the state is a dangerous place for our homes and businesses. Deciding how damage from each of these perils fits into your insurance policy requires experience and planning.

Florida’s statutes and caselaw provide both powerful swords and dangerous pitfalls for both sides of a property damage claim. For the insurance carrier, Florida’s fee shifting statute and bad faith procedures can quickly dig a deep hole if the litigation is not handled purposefully and wisely. On the other hand, when used properly Florida’s proposal for settlement statute and rule provides a powerful sword. For the policy holder, the same fee shifting statute and bad faith procedures provide an avenue for the owner to fight for what she believes is correct. On the other hand, the proposal for settlement statute and rule can expose the policy holder to risk, if not handled properly.

Each claim is different and deserves to be handled accordingly. For each claim, we will diligently evaluate and collect evidence for the actual cause of loss and the true value of the covered damage. We have a number of engineers, roofers, contractors, water and mold mitigators, and other construction professionals on hand who will provide the opinions and services that each claim needs.