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:
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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.
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Water and Freezing Damage
Florida homeowners may sometimes incur water damage from rain, flooding, plumbing defects, or melting ice – as well as from freezing rain. Most home insurance policies provide coverage against these types of damages.
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Fire Damage
Fire is extremely expensive, perhaps the most costly property insurance claim. Fires can do much damage quickly and typically have additional expenses, such as moving out and rebuilding the home. Fortunately, homeowners’ insurance was originally designed to cover fire damage claims.
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Other Property Damage
Other miscellaneous property damage claims that are frequently reported in Florida include:
- Tree falling damage
- Termite infestation
- Damage from falling objects
- Toxic mold damage
- Sinkhole damage
- Lightning damage
- Smoke damage
- Mildew damage
Ways to Prevent More Property Damage
Here are some tips to help prevent more property damage:
- Stay aware of your surroundings. If you see something coming that could cause property damage, be sure to warn others nearby.
- Make sure your property is secure. Keep your garden gates closed, and don’t leave anything valuable outside overnight. When camping, make sure to keep your food stored in a safe place and store firewood carefully, so it doesn’t fall onto the ground.
- Check for storm warnings. If there are severe thunderstorms in the area, be sure to stay inside until the storm has passed. Storms can cause wind and water damage, as well as power outages.
- Report any damages immediately. If you notice broken windows, flooding, or fallen trees, please call 911 so emergency personnel can respond and assess the damage. Reporting damages quickly will help ensure that insurance companies can cover the costs and will help protect your home through future damage.
- Have a plan in place before you leave. Make sure you can contact family members or loved ones if needed, and ensure that everyone has emergency phone numbers memorized. In addition, it’s important to have an emergency kit ready in case of travel delays or if someone needs help when they arrive at their destination.
Contact Us Today and Get Your Legal Needs Met
What types of property damage should Floridians know about? Following your knowledge of the many types of property damages, it is crucial that you are aware of your legal rights and contact the right professionals. At RRBH Law, we can help you understand your legal options and provide the support you need to get through this difficult time. Contact us today at 305-800-4663 to discuss your case in further detail.