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The damage caused by a hurricane can be devastating. Most recently, North Carolina found this to be true when Hurricane Florence ripped through the state after making landfall on September 14, 2018. While the storm eventually passed, the damage left behind was enormous. Widespread flooding was a major problem for much of the state, and tens of thousands of people were left without homes. As cleanup continues, there are many questions about post-hurricane insurance – what will be covered so people can start to rebuild their lives? Can anyone help with the claims process?
Insurance Coverage in a Hurricane State
Hurricane season is always a time of uncertainty in the Carolinas, as residents, particularly at the coast but also further inland, watch storm formation and paths with worried eyes. Carolina homeowners will benefit from reviewing the details of their disaster insurance policies. They should verify that they are covered for all potential storm damage. Reviewing a policy after a hurricane can lead to unpleasant surprises and leave the homeowner with little recourse to pursue coverage for storm-related damage.
The most robust hurricane damage insurance policies will cover:
- Damage caused by water, wind, hail, falling trees, and airborne debris, preferably to the full replacement value of all lost or damaged real and personal property.
- Flood damage, but you should understand that insurance companies often treat water damage and flood damage as different events. If you are unsure if your policy covers flood damage, your claim should state that your property was affected by “water damage.”
- Costs associated with evacuation and temporary housing while your residence is under reconstruction.
- Fire damage resulting from sparks or gas leaks in damaged property.
If you do not understand your policy’s coverage, contact a North Carolina hurricane insurance lawyer with experience with insurance policies.
North Carolina Insurance Law
North Carolina insurance law is covered under the North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 58. These statutes outline the requirements for handling claims and the rights of policyholders after a claim is made.
When it’s necessary to file a claim, you should inform the insurance company in writing or by email. Review your policy carefully to determine how quickly you must submit your claim. If you fail to submit it in a timely manner, an insurance company may decline coverage even for hurricane damage.
The adjusters and company should reply promptly and investigate as soon as possible. Keep copies and records of all communications with insurance companies as proof that your claim was submitted on time.
The insurance company’s investigation should include a thorough inspection of the damaged property. If the adjuster or investigator does not thoroughly inspect property damage, you should inform the insurance company in writing that the inspection was incomplete or inadequate.
In all cases, document how long the adjuster spent inspecting your property and what they did or didn’t do during that inspection. Keep notes of the inspection. If the agent is taking photos, as they likely will, take photos of your own. If the company decides that a claim is valid, the company should issue payments promptly. Document your wait times and keep track of the status of your claim with the insurance company. Ask for a date when the payment will be made and written explanations for denials of any reimbursements, as North Carolina requires written explanations of denials.
Steps to Take After a Hurricane
After a hurricane, you will need to take a few critical steps to start the insurance recovery process. This is not an exhaustive list of what you need to do to make a claim. Your policy will include further details on how to file and what you must submit to qualify for insurance reimbursement.
At a minimum, you will need to:
- Report hurricane damage to insurance companies as promptly as possible. Ensure your insurance company logs your claim and assigns a claim number or other identifier.
- Document all damage. You may be unable to do this in the immediate aftermath of a hurricane. Record as much as possible and track what you reported to your insurer. As you discover more damage, file supplemental reports.
- Review your property insurance policy carefully to understand the steps for obtaining insurance claim approval.
- Contact your insurer if you do not receive prompt acknowledgment or verification of coverage. If your insurer denies any part or all of your claim, contact a North Carolina hurricane insurance lawyer for help to challenge the denial.
In every hurricane insurance claim, be very wary of signing anything you receive from your insurer that releases the insurer from further liability. It’s wise not to sign a final release until you are satisfied that your insurer has paid all benefits it is obligated to pay under your policy, and you have no further claims to make.
Remember that some hurricane damage claims may involve emergency management agencies such as FEMA, so be alert to how your insurance and these agencies may interact. Again, feel free to contact a North Carolina hurricane insurance lawyer for help.
The Benefit of Legal Assistance and Representation
If your insurer denies your claim and does not give a reason for the denial or you believe that the company’s reason is invalid, contact a Wilmington hurricane lawyer for assistance in negotiations with the insurance company.
Insurance companies hire teams of lawyers and review thousands of claims after hurricanes sweep across the state. You will be at a disadvantage if you try to negotiate on your own. However, when represented by one of our lawyers, you will level the playing field and likely get a more favorable result after a hurricane.
Get Help Dealing With Insurance Companies in Wilmington
It’s important for homeowners to report any damage from a hurricane to their insurance company right away. The company will be busy after a natural disaster, so patience may be needed. Still, getting your claim in right away will ensure that the insurance company starts working on it as soon as possible.
In addition, it may help to speak to a local attorney. Unfortunately, insurance companies don’t always look out for the best interests of their policyholders. They are in the business of making money, and paying out on claims in the wake of a disaster, particularly large claims, does not increase their bottom line.
Having a lawyer on your side will ensure that you are treated fairly and paid for valid claims. We can also speak to the insurance company on your behalf. This can protect you, as attorneys are familiar with insurance companies and will not fall for their tactics, such as “delay, deny, and defend.”
Our Promise to You
Contact a Wilmington Lawyer After a Natural Disaster
Speaking to a lawyer is one of the best ways you can get back on your feet after a natural disaster. Rhine Law Firm, P.C., has extensive building and construction experience, and knows how to negotiate successfully with insurance companies. Call our Wilmington natural disaster attorneys at (910) 772-9960. We will walk you through the rebuilding process, and represent you so you are treated honestly and given full compensation.
Additional Information
- What to Do in Hurricane Florence’s Aftermath
- The Devastation of Hurricane Irma
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Although our primary office location is in Wilmington, North Carolina we represent clients nationally and across the state of North Carolina. Some of the many areas we serve are listed below.
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