homeowners insurance coverage Archives

How to Make a Successful Water Leak Insurance Claim

RRBHLAWZEN January 20, 2023Homeowners' Insurance

When it comes to unexpected home repairs, a water leak can be one of the most destructive and costly issues to deal with. But did you know that your homeowners insurance may cover some or all of the damage caused by a water leak? The key to receiving the coverage you are entitled to is knowing how to make a successful water leak insurance claim. In this blog, we have provided 10 tips to help you make a successful water leak insurance claim. From determining the source of the leak, to documenting the damage and hiring a professional to fix the mess, these tips will guide you through the process and increase your chances of receiving a fair settlement from your insurance company. How to Make a Successful Water Leak Insurance Claim The key to receiving the coverage you are entitled to is knowing how to make a successful water leak insurance claim. Making a water leak insurance claim can be complex, but following these steps and tips can increase your chances of a successful claim. 10 Water Damage Insurance Claim Tips Determine the Source of Water and Stop the Flow: The first step in making a successful water leak …

What To Do When Your Home Insurance Claim Is Denied Or Delayed?

RRBHLAWZEN December 20, 2022Homeowners' Insurance

Home insurance claims can be a complex and stressful process, especially if your claim is denied or delayed. There are several reasons why this might happen, and it’s important to understand why so you can take the appropriate steps to resolve the issue. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the reasons why your home insurance claim is denied, and provide you with tips on what to do if you find yourself in that situation. Why Your Home Insurance Claim Is Denied Or Delayed? There are several reasons why your home insurance claim may have been denied or delayed. Here are a few common ones: Your Insurance Made a Mistake Sometimes, insurance companies make mistakes. It’s important to carefully review your policy’s terms to ensure that you’re covered for the damages you’re claiming. If you believe your insurance company made a mistake in denying or delaying your claim, it’s important to contact them and ask for a review. Be sure to provide any documentation or evidence that supports your claim. You Missed Your Chance to File Most home insurance policies have strict deadlines for filing a claim. If you miss this deadline, your claim may be denied. Be sure to …

When Does Hurricane Season End?

RRBHLAWZEN November 22, 2022Hurricane damage, Hurricane Preparation

The Florida hurricane season is a six-month period from June 1st to November 30th of each year. The peak of the season is mid-August through late October. During this time, there is an increased chance for tropical storms and hurricanes to form in the Atlantic and Caribbean Sea and then move toward Florida. Find out when does hurricane season end and what to do after it! What Contributes To The Formation Of Hurricanes During The Season? The first is the warm ocean water temperatures. These waters need at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit for a hurricane to form. The second ingredient is moist air. This air rises and condenses into thunderstorms which can turn into hurricanes. Lastly, there needs to be low wind shear. This is when the upper-level winds are at different speeds or directions than the lower-level winds. If wind shear is too high, it can prevent thunderstorms from organizing into a hurricane. During the hurricane season, it is important to be prepared. This means having a plan in place in case of evacuations, stocking up on supplies, and knowing your insurance coverage. It is also important to stay informed by following the National Hurricane Center and local news …

Why Insurance Companies Will Underpay Hurricane Ian Victims

RRBHLAWZEN November 2, 2022Homeowners' Insurance, Hurricane damage, Insurance Litigation

Why will insurance companies underpay hurricane Ian victims? With Hurricane Ian ripping through Florida, there are huge consequences for real estate. One week after Hurricane Ian struck, tens of thousands of Floridians have property damage and are turning to their insurance companies hoping they’ll pay up. Hurricane Ian has left a trail of destruction in its wake after it made its way across Florida. In the aftermath, there’s been a lot of talk about how insurance companies are unfair to hurricane victims. We’ll explore what’s going on and why this is happening in this article! What is Hurricane Insurance? Hurricane insurance is a type of insurance that protects homeowners and businesses from damages caused by hurricanes. FEMA will only cover damage to the first 3 feet of your property if you have a total loss due to Hurricane Ian. After that, you’ll need to seek coverage from your hurricane insurance. What is Concurrent Causation? Concurrent causation is a mechanism used in insurance claims to handle losses that arise from more than one cause. For instance, Hurricane Ian caused both wind damage and storm surge. Depending on the circumstances and the policy, damages from both causes may be covered even if …

What Types Of Property Damage Should Floridians Know About?

RRBHLAWZEN September 20, 2022Homeowners' Insurance, Property Insurance

Have you ever wondered what types of property damage should Floridians know about? You may have considered hurricane or tornado damage, but did you know there are other ways your home could be damaged? Read on to learn about some of the most common property damages and how to prepare for them. What Types of Property Damage Are Most Likely in Florida? In Florida, property damage can include anything from broken windows to structural damage. Knowing what to look for in a property damage claim can help you get the compensation you deserve. Here are some common types of property damage in Florida: Wind and Hail Damage Florida’s weather is hazardous and accounts for a large number of insurance claims. Hail and wind damage are the most frequent types of weather-related insurance claims. The leading causes of wind and hail damage to property in Florida are windstorms, hailstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. To cover wind and hail damage, one may occasionally need to acquire a different policy, so be sure you know what your current policy covers. Water and Freezing Damage Florida homeowners may sometimes incur water damage from rain, flooding, plumbing defects, or melting ice – as well as from …

Does Renters Insurance Cover Water Damage?

RRBHLAWZEN July 17, 2022Homeowners' Insurance, Property Insurance

If you’ve ever been without renters insurance and then experienced a flood, hurricane, or other natural disasters, you know that it can be a hassle to find out if your insurance will cover the cost of the damages. With so many multiple companies selling plans and so many other things, it might be difficult to keep track of the considerations that impact what is included in an insurance contract. This article answers the most common question: does renters insurance cover water damage? Does Renters Insurance Cover Water Damage? Renters insurance covers water damage in many scenarios but does not protect you in every situation. For example, incidents like a clogged toilet or a burst pipe are likely to be covered. However, most renter’s insurance policies do not cover damage caused by backed-up sewage or flooding or if the damage was caused by negligence (acting irrationally or recklessly). Furthermore, renters insurance only protects your personal property. Your landlord is responsible for the building’s regular maintenance, but renters insurance can help you protect your possessions. This means you don’t have to replace things like pipes if your plumbing fails; however, you may require insurance to replace damaged personal items. Water Damage From …

Does Home Insurance Cover Cast Iron Pipes?

RRBHLAWZEN June 6, 2022Homeowners' Insurance

One of the most common questions we receive from homeowners is: does home insurance cover cast iron pipes? Some things seem obvious to the point that it’s hard to believe many people don’t think about them. This is the case when it comes to insurance. While we all know your homeowners’ policy covers you if someone accidentally breaks your window, many homeowners probably don’t know if their home insurance will cover leaking pipes from broken cast iron pipes! Use this article to decide where other types of coverage might be necessary for your home and get yourself insured before tragedy strikes! What Are Cast Iron Pipes? Cast iron pipes are made of metal that is treated with a silicone or varnish coating. They are used for water, gas, and oil pipelines, and their outside surface is generally smooth. The inside of cast iron pipes is also coated so that the metal does not rust. They have several disadvantages over other materials for pipelines. They are heavy, expensive to repair if they break, and take a long time to heat up to their operating temperature. Does Home Insurance Cover Cast Iron Pipes? Here are some things to remember when researching whether …

How Long Does a Home Insurance Claim Take in Florida?

RRBHLAWZENblog April 25, 2022Homeowners' Insurance, Hurricane damage, Insurance Litigation, Property Insurance

How long does a home insurance claim take in Florida? When you file a homeowners insurance claim in the Sunshine State, you might expect immediate relief. Here’s why that’s a mistake. While it is practically impossible to pinpoint how long an insurance claim will take to pay out, there are a few milestones you can rely on to get an idea about what to expect. It can take days, weeks, or even months—sometimes even years—before you see a single cent from your insurance provider. It all depends on the circumstances surrounding your claim. Here are some things to keep in mind as you wait for the insurance company to cut you a check. How long does a home insurance claim take in Florida? In Florida, insurance companies have 90 days to notify you whether they have accepted or denied your claim. If your insurance provider approves your claim, the Florida Statues state that they must pay you within 20 days of their decision. If they do not pay your approved claim within this timeframe, the payout will accrue an interest rate of 12% per year. The larger the claim, the more likely your provider is to use the whole …

Injured? Suing a Landlord for Negligence May Be Your Best Option

RRBHLAWZEN April 15, 2022Personal Injury Lawyer Florida

If you are injured in your rental, suing a landlord for negligence may be your best option to cover your bills. Here’s what to know. For a tenant to succeed in their suit against a landlord, they must first demonstrate that the landlord’s actions (or inaction) were naturally and foreseeably responsible for the tenant’s injury. There is no automatic liability for landlords in situations of injury suffered by tenants while renting from them. A landlord is typically liable for tenants’ injuries only if their actions (or inaction) caused the injuries or contributed to them. Renters who sustain personal injuries may be able to recover damages from their landlords. Tenant personal injuries can cause both physical and emotional harm. The tenant can turn to the court for a personal injury lawsuit if they were injured because of a variety of reasons, including a fire in the building, a fall that occurred because of deteriorated steps, insect infestations, lead, mold, faulty repairs, carbon monoxide, vermin, and criminal offenses, including rape, assault, and robbery. In the event of landlords being unresponsive, ignoring, or unconcerned about the safety of their properties, tenants may be in danger of getting injured. Despite your lease …

How Much Does Mold Remediation Cost?

RRBHLAWZEN February 20, 2022Homeowners' Insurance, Property Insurance

When water, dirt, or other materials get into your home through a broken pipe or leaky roof and cause mold to grow, it can be frustrating. How much does mold remediation cost? Discover the main factors that can make the cost of mold remediation vary in this article! It might seem like a simple thing: just remove the mold from your house and go on with your day. However, there is much more to the mold remediation process than that. How much it costs and what you can do to prevent it are two critical questions that homeowners need to answer. We answer these questions in this article. How much does mold remediation cost? Mold remediation costs vary depending on factors such as the type of water damage, the severity and extent of the mold, and the amount of required cleanup. The average cost of mold remediation is about $2,300, though it often ranges between $1,300 and $3,300. High-cost jobs can cost as much as $6,000. There are many monetary costs associated with mold remediation, but the cost that is most important is the cost of living in a contaminated home or office. Molds and mildew can cause respiratory problems, …

What Is the Average Value of a Bodily Injury Claim Settlement

RRBHLAWZEN February 5, 2022Personal Injury Lawyer Florida, Vehicle Accidents

What is the average value of a bodily injury claim settlement? Injuries are a common occurrence in life, and when they happen, you might be wondering what the average bodily injury claim settlement is worth. Find out how to answer this question with this blog post. Injury claims are a costly type of monetary settlement that most people will go through at some point in their life. With the rise of self-driving cars and rideshare services as well as the continuous increase of drivers, it is increasingly likely that you will be in an accident at some point. This article breaks down the average value of a bodily injury claim settlement so you can be prepared. The Value of Bodily Injury Claim Settlement Between 2010 and 2019, the average value of a bodily injury claim settlement ranged from $14,406 to $18,417, increasing steadily each year. Some bodily injury claims, such as lost wages, can be quantified. Other types of personal injury claims, such as pain and suffering, are not easily measured in monetary terms. In order to get a better understanding of the value of a bodily injury claim, it is best to find out what some general guidelines are …

What Is Insurance Litigation? A Quick-Reference Guide

RRBHLAWZEN December 10, 2021Insurance Litigation

What is insurance litigation? If you are coming across this term for the first time, you might need an attorney to help you get the compensation you deserve. You have many insurance policies to protect you against a wide variety of unlucky circumstances. Your car insurance protects you in case someone crashes into you. Your homeowners’ insurance pays out when your home is damaged in a storm, or someone gets hurt on your property. The reason you pay your premiums–which can be quite expensive–in full and on time is that you expect the insurance company to hold up their end of the bargain. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen, and without legal action against unfair practices, you could be looking at massive costs. Insurance litigation can help you fight back. What is insurance litigation? Insurance litigation is the legal process by which insurers and policyholders dispute the meaning and interpretation of an insurance policy. From the policyholder’s perspective, insurance litigation is an avenue to dispute a denied claim, an underpaid claim, or bad faith insurance practices designed to limit the amount of a settlement. Insurance providers owe their policyholders a certain standard of care. Most policyholders expect …

How to Identify Roof Wind Damage and Get Your Claim Settled

RRBHLAWZEN September 22, 2021Homeowners' Insurance, Hurricane damage, Insurance Litigation

Worried that your roof might have been damaged by high winds? In this article, we break down how to identify roof wind damage so you can start the claim process. The next time you are outside, take a look at your roof. Do you notice anything…off? Do the shingles look worn? Does anything seem to be missing? Some indications that high winds have damaged your roof are easy to spot—you may even be able to see them from the street. Others may require a closer inspection. Either way, it’s critical to know how to identify roof wind damage to prevent serious issues like leaking ceilings and mold. If you are even slightly concerned about the state of your roof, these tips will help you identify problems so you can notify your insurance. When to Look for Roof Wind Damage When winds reach 45 mph or higher in your area, you should take some steps to ensure that your roof is still in good shape. At this speed, dead tree limbs can fall onto your roof and damage the shingles. At higher speeds, the wind can even rip shingles completely off their nails. Wind speeds of 75 mph and higher are …

storm surge - the most dangerous part of a hurricane

The Most Dangerous Part of a Hurricane Can Leave Your Home in Ruin

RRBHLAWZEN June 23, 2021Homeowners' Insurance, Hurricane damage, Insurance Litigation

Though high winds can cause significant damage to your home, they are not the most dangerous part of a hurricane. Learn about the dangers of storm surge and how to protect your property. During a hurricane, storm surge is the most dangerous threat to life and property. About half of lives lost during hurricanes are due to storm surge, and billions of dollars in property damage is possible from a single storm. To help you understand the risk of storm surge as we make our way into hurricane season, here are some facts about this hazard and what you can do to protect yourself. The Most Dangerous Part of a Hurricane: What Is Storm Surge? Storm surge refers to the abnormal rising water levels near the coast caused by high hurricane winds. Water is displaced onto coastal land, causing flooding in low-lying areas. When combined with rough ocean waves, storm surge can not only cause water damage and mold infestation to at-risk homes but also structural damage. During especially destructive storms, these factors can make your home uninhabitable. Steps to Take to Protect Your Home If your home is located in an at-risk area, it is critical to be ready …

How to Prepare a Bad Faith Claim Against Your Homeowners Insurance

RRBHLAWZEN May 14, 2021Insurance Litigation, Property Insurance

Has your homeowners insurance used bad faith tactics to avoid paying out your full settlement or deny your claim outright? You may have recourse through a lawsuit for a bad faith claim. This article offers a strategy. Do you believe your home insurer has failed to investigate your claim properly? Were you denied coverage without explanation? Have they delayed your settlement payment for an unreasonable amount of time? You may be able to file a bad faith claim against your insurer to get the compensation you deserve under your policy. Your insurance provider has a duty to deal with you in good faith. If you feel you are being treated unfairly, here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of winning your case. Preparing for a Bad Faith Claim Speak to Your Attorney From day one, you should be communicating with an attorney about your homeowners insurance claim. Your lawyer understands how the process can and should play out, so having them there to guide you can keep you from making avoidable mistakes that could jeopardize your claim. Document Everything If your claim is denied, you then need to start documenting everything you can. Get all the …

Can I Sue My Insurance Company for a Better Settlement?

RRBHLAWZEN March 22, 2021Insurance Litigation

Can I sue my insurance company? Get the answers to your questions. Here’s what you need to know about suing your homeowners insurance company for a fair settlement. If you have ever filed a claim with your homeowners insurance provider and felt like you should have gotten more compensation when the check came, you are not alone. As profit-driven enterprises, insurance companies have gotten really good at paying out as little as possible for claims, even when they know that their offer is not even close to what it should be. So, the question is, can you do anything about it? Can you sue them for a fair settlement? The answer? Yes, You Can Sue Your Insurance Company In some cases, litigation is your only remedy when the insurance company does not hold up its end of the bargain. You may find yourself in many different situations where you need to file a lawsuit for your property damage claim. For instance, if you believe they are acting in bad faith, have wrongfully denied your claim, or are delaying your settlement, you may need to sue. When Can I Sue My Insurance Company? Just like people are expected to follow the …

Why Mold Insurance Claims Get Denied

RRBHLAWZEN February 12, 2021Homeowners' Insurance, Insurance Litigation, Property Insurance

Words are important, especially in the legal industry. Homeowners insurance policies are often vague in their wording when it comes to mold coverage. Insurance providers sometimes deny mold insurance claims because of how a policy lays out what it covers—for the homeowners who receive a denial, that can mean they are out thousands of dollars. In a typical mold coverage case, the fate of the claim often hinges on one thing—whether the mold is a result of covered damage. Here’s what you need to know about mold insurance claims. When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold? As mentioned above, in most homeowners insurance policies, mold removal is only covered when it is the result of a covered peril. Therefore, if a pipe bursts (or you experience other covered water damage) and the moisture causes mold to grow, you could file a claim for mold removal and the repair of anything permanently damaged by the mold, as well as any damage caused by the water. The primary stipulation to remember is this: if your homeowners insurance policy covers sudden, accidental water damage, you should be covered if any mold results from the water damage. Here are a few common examples of covered …

hands fixing a pipe for property insurance

Citizens Property Insurance Corporation’s Managed Repair Program Shortchanges Homeowners

RRBHLAWZENblog November 10, 2020Insurance Litigation, Property Insurance

Has your home been damaged by water? If you have a homeowners insurance policy under Citizens Property Insurance Corporation’s Managed Repair Program, you might not be able to choose who does repairs. Since 2017, Citizens Property Insurance Corporation has been encouraging its policyholders towards a new program designed to handle claims for water damage stemming from sources other than storms. The reason this program is necessary, the not-for-profit government entity claims, is that non-storm water damage claims are driving up insurance rates and claims abuses by independent contractors are to blame. While it is true that some claims abuses do occur, the Managed Repair Program takes power away from policyholders. Here’s what you should know. What Is a Managed Repair Program? Check Your Homeowners Insurance Policy To summarize, managed repair programs are special homeowners insurance programs that encourage policyholders to use a contractor chosen by the insurance company to make repairs. According to the Citizens website, their program “offers valuable services to customers with eligible policies whose homes have been damaged by water not caused by weather.” The services that the company offers to new and renewal homeowner (HO-3) and dwelling property 3 (DP-3) policyholders include emergency water removal and …

Page 2 of 3
←
1
2
3
→