910-772-9960
Follow Us
Many property owners in North Carolina experience wind damage from severe weather events like hurricanes, tornadoes, and powerful storms, which can leave a trail of destruction. You may have major damage to roofs and siding, broken windows, or uprooted trees. Repairs are often expensive, and dealing with uncooperative insurance companies only adds to the stress.
When you need to make a significant disaster claim under your property and casualty insurance policy, a North Carolina property damage lawyer from Rhine Law Firm in Wilmington can help you get the largest reimbursements available–according to your policy’s terms and conditions. We challenge low offers from claims adjusters and pursue every dollar a property owner is entitled to recover to rebuild damaged property. Contact our firm to discuss your case with a qualified North Carolina wind damage claims attorney today.
An Overview of Wind Damage in North Carolina
Wind damage in North Carolina can significantly impact properties, particularly due to the state’s vulnerability to hurricanes, tropical storms, and severe thunderstorms. High winds can cause a wide range of damage, from minor issues like broken windows and roof shingles to more severe structural damage, including collapsed roofs, downed trees, and destroyed outbuildings. Coastal areas are particularly susceptible, but as we unfortunately saw with Hurricane Helene, inland regions also experience devastating damage.
In addition to direct damage to homes and buildings, windstorms often lead to power outages, damage to vehicles, and the disruption of essential services. Property owners may face costly repairs and lengthy recovery times, and insurance claims can be complex, particularly when determining coverage for wind versus water damage. The economic and emotional toll on homeowners can be substantial, requiring immediate emergency responses and long-term rebuilding efforts.
Understanding Wind Damage Insurance Claims
In North Carolina, homeowners’ insurance typically covers wind damage, but the extent of coverage depends on the specific terms of your policy. Most standard policies cover damage caused by windstorms, including hurricanes and tornadoes, to the structure of your home, such as the roof, walls, and windows. Detached structures like garages and sheds are also often included. Personal property inside the home, such as furniture, electronics, and clothing, may be covered if damaged by wind-driven debris or rain entering through openings caused by wind.
However, there are limitations. Windstorm deductibles, particularly in coastal areas, may be higher than standard deductibles. Additionally, while wind damage is generally covered, flood damage from storm surges or heavy rains often requires a separate flood insurance policy. It’s essential to review your policy closely to understand coverage specifics, including exclusions or additional riders for wind or hurricane damage.
Property owners must immediately file a detailed claim with their insurance company, providing supporting documentation when such damage occurs. The insurer will then assign an adjuster to evaluate the claim and determine the payout. However, it is common for disputes to arise during this phase, often regarding the cause of the damage or the amount needed for repairs.
If your claim is substantial, an experienced attorney may be needed — and can help you understand your rights and ensure your claim is handled fairly.
What to Do After Wind Damage
After experiencing wind damage in North Carolina, the first step is to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Avoid entering any unstable structures or areas with fallen power lines. Taking immediate action after a storm can protect your property and insurance claim. Here is what to do:
- Make Temporary Repairs: Cover broken windows, patch roof leaks, and take other steps to prevent further damage, but avoid permanent fixes until approved. Keep all receipts, as these costs may be reimbursed.
- Document the Damage: Take clear photos and videos of the damage, both inside and outside your property. The more detailed, the better.
- Create an Inventory: Make a detailed list of damaged areas and personal items, noting their condition and value. This can help ensure your claim is comprehensive and lessen the chance that some important aspects of your claim are left off.
How a Wind Damage Claims Attorney Can Help
A wind damage attorney can help with your insurance claim in North Carolina by guiding you when you run into difficulties with the often complex claims process. We can ensure your rights are protected. Here is how we can make a difference in your insurance claim:
Advocating on Your Behalf with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies prioritize their bottom line, often attempting to offer lowball settlements or dragging out the claims process. We are skilled negotiators, well-versed in countering insurers’ tactics to minimize your damage or delay your payout. We build strong cases that accurately reflect the full extent of your losses.
Maximizing Your Claim
An insurance policy is a complex contract, often consisting of riders, exclusions, and limitations. We can work to maximize your insurance payout after wind damage in North Carolina by utilizing our expertise in insurance law to effectively navigate the claims process. We will thoroughly review your insurance policy to identify all potential coverage, ensuring no benefits are overlooked.
Gathering and Presenting Strong Evidence
The strength of your claim also hinges on the evidence you provide. We help you compile and present all the necessary documentation, leaving little room for dispute. Key evidence includes:
- Detailed photographs and videos capturing the damage right after the storm, preserving the scene for the claim.
- Independent assessments from contractors or third-party adjusters provide objective evaluations, challenging any unfair estimates from your insurer. These independent evaluations can expose discrepancies in the insurance company’s estimate and provide powerful evidence in negotiations.
- Records of repairs and mitigation efforts to prevent further damage, showing that you acted responsibly to protect your property.
Our team is here to provide guidance. If your claim has been denied or you suspect bad faith from the insurance company, we can help you navigate the next steps.
Contact Rhine Law Firm to Maximize Your Wind Damage Compensation
The property damage lawyers at Rhine Law Firm offer representation and assistance to North Carolina property owners whose homes have been damaged by wind and other severe weather events. Please call or visit our Wilmington office as soon as you can after a disaster strikes. If you retain our firm and we accept your case, we will take over and manage all communications with your property and casualty insurer and fight tirelessly to get you the full insurance payments you need. Since we work on a contingency fee basis, you will not pay attorney’s fees unless we win compensation for your losses.
We are proud to serve the people of North Carolina.
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.
Our Promise to You
Get the Legal Help You Need
Working with our firm means your needs will be met and your questions answered by someone who knows your name and the details of your case — every time you call.
Contact Rhine Law Firm, P.C., at (910) 772-9960 for a free initial consultation. Evening and weekend appointments upon request. Office hours 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Evening and weekend appointments also available. We also offer Spanish interpretation and translation services.
Contact our Firm
Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation
