On the morning of December 24th, Fort Myers was the site of severe storms including a tornado. As such, many in the area experienced considerable damage to their homes and business. Strong and swirling winds can uproot trees and blow roof tiles. Additionally, the debris that wind from tornados picks up can cause significant damage. The Fort Myers tornado was large.
As you are aware, the cost related to tornado damage can be considerable. While you likely have insurance coverage, you should not rely on the insurance company alone to categorize your damage. You see, quite often, insurance companies leverage the services of out-of-state catastrophe “cat“ adjusters who do not necessarily understand that Florida is a matching and continuation-controlled state when paying claims. Additionally, insurance companies are businesses whose loyalties are to their own bottom line, not to the customers. As someone who is facing costly tornado damage repairs, the assistance of a qualified public adjuster is critical.
But, not all local public adjusters have the experience necessary to appropriately scope tornado damage. You want to ensure that you carefully research the firm with which you engage. You want to ensure that the company with whom you work is well-versed in managing tornado damage cases in Florida.
Damage Not Always Visible
As a homeowner, It is important to realize that tornado damage is not always visible to the naked eye. In fact, your property may have sustained damage and you may not even be aware. When a professional engineering firm like Florida’s Best Public Adjusters inspects your damage they can help with accurately qualifying and qualifying the damage a tornado did to your home.
One important and costly mistake made by “cat” adjusters is damage from downed trees. Most carriers limit the cost of downed trees to $500. Our professionals know that insurance companies must pay the actual cost of removal of trees against your premises, your outbuildings, or on your fences. In some cases, you can get paid the actual cost to “ chop and drop” trees from your premises, fences, or other structures. That said before you remove trees it is imperative that you take videos and pictures to show what the trees were laying on or against.
Other frequent omissions by insurance company inspectors include scrapes or scratches of the facia, roof, or stucco on your property. Repairing these “smaller” damages caused by flying debris can really add up.
Claims Process can be Stressful
The professionals at Florida’s Best Public Adjusters understand and appreciate the stress associated with tornadoes. Often the damage is extensive and in some cases even catastrophic. The claims process can be time-consuming. Documenting and pricing the personal property and organizing damage estimates can be confusing and overwhelming
The right firm will manage the entire claims process on your behalf, emphatically communicating with you, and aggressively fighting for the best possible settlement on your behalf. In addition to interviewing companies to help, make sure to check their references. The most accurate reviews come not from the company itself, but from past clients. And, remember you want to work with BBB A+ rated public adjusters.
Florida’s Best Public Adjusters has been serving all 67 counties in Florida for 11 years. Our staff includes confirmed experts for the scope and pricing of tornado claims. If you have experienced damage, reach out to us and learn exactly how we can help. Additionally, if your claim has been denied and underpaid, contact us immediately. We have a proven record of success in managing insurance appeals.
