Hurricane Damage Claims Lawyers | Keller Swan Property Damage Attorneys
Hurricanes are one of the most powerful forces of nature, causing billions in damage each year, especially in storm prone states. Insurance companies often deny or underpay hurricane damage claims, leaving homeowners and businesses with a huge financial burden. Keller Swan Property Damage Attorneys can help clients nationwide with claim disputes or lawsuits.
Why Keller Swan Property Damage Attorneys for Hurricane Damage Claims?
Keller Swan Property Damage Attorneys have been helping clients for decades with hurricane damage claims. We know the tricks insurance companies use to deny or minimize claims and we will fight to get our clients the compensation they are entitled to for property damage, repair costs and extra expenses.
Hurricanes and Property and Insurance Claims
Hurricanes in the US: A Growing Problem
The most hurricane prone states are Florida, Texas, Louisiana, North Carolina and South Carolina. With increasing storm intensity and frequency, homeowners and businesses are facing unprecedented damage risks including roof and structural damage, flooding, electrical issues and more. In recent years these damages have led to some of the biggest insurance disputes and lawsuits.
Recent Hurricane Insurance Lawsuits
Here are some of the biggest hurricane related insurance claim lawsuits in the last 10 years:
1. Hurricane Harvey Claims (2017)
After Hurricane Harvey flooded Texas, many homeowners had their claims denied or underpaid. Insurers claimed the flood damage wasn’t covered and litigation ensued. One big class action settlement was over $40 million for policyholders, proving the importance of clear policy language and insurer accountability.
2. Hurricane Michael Claims (2018)
Hurricane Michael ravaged the Florida Panhandle, leaving thousands of homeowners with significant property damage. Many policyholders had their claims denied or underpaid and multiple lawsuits ensued. In one case a court ordered an insurance company to pay $15 million to policyholders for intentionally lowballing claims.
3. Hurricane Laura Class Action Lawsuit (2020)
Hurricane Laura hit Louisiana and Texas causing billions in damage. Many claims were delayed or underpaid and a class action lawsuit ensued. The settlement included over $30 million in compensation with insurers forced to address claims.
4. Louisiana Hurricane Settlement (2022)
A recent settlement in Louisiana involved thousands of policyholders who had their claims underpaid or denied after multiple hurricanes including Hurricanes Delta and Zeta. Policyholders received a total of $50 million in compensation, proving the need for aggressive legal advocacy when faced with large scale denials.
2023 and 2024 Hurricane Insurance Lawsuits
1. Texas Hurricane Lawsuit (2023)
In 2023 a big hurricane hit Texas and many policyholders had their claims delayed or denied citing unclear language on wind and flood damage. A big lawsuit ensued and a judge ordered insurers to pay a record $55 million to policyholders.
2. Florida Hurricane Insurance Case (2024)
After the recent Florida hurricane season, thousands of homeowners had their claims delayed or underpaid. One of the biggest cases was a class action where the court awarded over $60 million in damages, the largest ever for a hurricane related claim.
Hurricane Damage Claims
What is Covered in a Typical Hurricane Claim?
Hurricane damage policies differ but a standard policy may cover:
- Wind Damage: Roof damage, window breakage and other structural issues from high winds.
- Flooding: Only if specified in the policy or if a separate flood policy is held.
- Water Damage: Water damage from rain entering due to storm related damage.
- Fire Damage: If fires result from electrical or gas line issues caused by the hurricane.
Important Note: Insurers will often deny claims for flooding or wind driven rain. An attorney can help you interpret your policy and determine if the denial is valid.
States Hit by Hurricane Damage
Hurricanes can hit any coastal state but the most affected are:
- Florida – Most hit state, especially Gulf Coast and southern regions.
- Texas – Most vulnerable in the Gulf area where hurricanes make landfall.
- Louisiana – Severe hurricane damage from hurricanes Katrina, Ida and Laura.
- North Carolina and South Carolina – Both states get hit along their coastlines.
- Virginia – Less frequent but can cause significant damage along the coast.
Knowing the regional risks and how it affects insurance can help you prepare for claim issues and have adequate coverage.
Hurricane Insurance Claim Challenges
Insurers will deny or undervalue hurricane claims because:
- Policy Exclusions: Flooding is often excluded from standard policies and requires a separate flood policy.
- Ambiguous Language: Insurers use unclear policy language to avoid paying full claims.
- Delay Tactics: Insurers will delay claims hoping policyholders will settle for less.
- Undervaluing Damages: Claims adjusters will estimate repair costs below actual cost and leave homeowners underpaid.
Keller Swan Property Damage Attorneys have experience with these challenges and will make sure policyholders get what they are owed.
Hurricane Damage Claim FAQs
1. What if my hurricane claim is denied?
If denied, ask your insurer for a written explanation. Review your policy and consider hiring a hurricane damage attorney to dispute the denial.
2. Can I appeal a denied hurricane insurance claim?
Yes, you can appeal. The appeals process varies by insurer but typically involves providing additional evidence or documentation. An attorney can help gather documents and build your case for appeal.
3. Does my policy cover flood damage from hurricanes?
Most standard policies don’t cover flood damage but may if you have a separate flood policy. Review your policy to see what’s covered and what’s not.
4. How long do I have to file a claim after a hurricane?
Timeframe varies by state and insurer but is usually 30-90 days. File as soon as possible to avoid delays.
5. What if my insurer undervalues my claim?
If you feel your claim is undervalued, ask for a breakdown of how they calculated the amount. Hire an attorney and have an independent adjuster inspect your damages to strengthen your case for fair compensation.
6. Can I sue my insurer for denying my hurricane damage claim?
Yes, if your insurer wrongfully denied your claim you may have a case. An attorney can help you determine if litigation is the way to go for your situation.
7. What documentation should I collect?
Collect everything—take photos and videos of all damage, save receipts for repairs and get estimates from contractors. This will help support your claim.
8. Why do insurers deny hurricane claims?
Insurers deny claims due to policy exclusions, ambiguous language or delay tactics to minimize payouts. Legal representation can counter these tactics and get you fair compensation.
9. How can Keller Swan Property Damage Attorneys help with my hurricane claim?
We will review your policy, negotiate with your insurer and litigate if necessary to get you what you’re owed.
10. What if my claim is partially approved but underpaid?
If underpaid, hire an attorney to calculate the true damage costs and negotiate or litigate for full compensation.
Why Keller Swan Property Damage Attorneys for Hurricane Damage Claims?
Keller Swan Property Damage Attorneys have experience, passion and a results oriented approach to every case. We have a history of getting fair compensation for clients with denied or undervalued hurricane damage claims. We will walk you through the appeals process, help document damages, negotiate with insurers and if needed, represent you in court to get you what you’re owed.
Get in Touch
Your hurricane damage claim was denied, delayed or undervalued? Don’t go it alone. Contact us today for a free consultation. Let’s get started.
