Denied Hurricane Damage Claim: 8 Powerful Reasons & Fixes 2025
When Hurricane Claim Denials Hit Home
The letter arrives, and your heart sinks. After weathering the literal storm, you’re now facing a figurative one: your insurance company has denied your hurricane damage claim. That sinking feeling in your stomach is all too common for Florida homeowners, especially after recent disasters like Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
A denied hurricane damage claim isn’t just paperwork—it’s a threat to your family’s recovery and financial stability. You’re not alone in this struggle. In Florida alone, over 37,000 homeowners received denial letters following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Even more troubling, industry data shows nearly half of all hurricane claims end up denied or significantly underpaid each year.
But here’s the truth that insurance companies don’t want you to know: a denial is often just the beginning of the conversation, not the end.
Here’s your immediate action plan:
First, request a detailed written explanation of why your claim was denied. Insurance companies must provide this by law, and it’s your roadmap for what comes next.
Next, carefully review your policy documents with fresh eyes. Focus on coverage limits, exclusions, and deadlines—the fine print matters tremendously here.
Then, gather additional supporting evidence that addresses the specific reason for denial. This might include more detailed photos, videos, contractor estimates, or expert opinions.
Be sure to file your formal appeal within the policy’s deadline. Missing this timeline can permanently close the door to recovery.
Finally, consider whether it’s time to bring in professional help. Many homeowners find that public adjusters or attorneys specialized in insurance claims can level the playing field.
“A denied claim, however, does not mean the end of your road to recovery.” – Insurance Law Experts
Most denials fall into predictable categories: disputes over what caused the damage (wind versus flood), policy exclusions you might not have realized existed, documentation they claim is insufficient, or allegations of pre-existing damage. Understanding exactly why your claim was denied is crucial to formulating your response.
As Scott Friedson, CEO of Insurance Claim Recovery Support puts it: “Let’s take that frustration and turn it into action.” That’s precisely what we’ll help you do.
With the right approach and proper guidance, many homeowners successfully overturn these initial denials. The key is knowing exactly how the system works and refusing to take “no” for an answer when your claim is legitimate.
Denied Hurricane Damage Claim: 8 Common Reasons
When the insurance company says “no” to your denied hurricane damage claim, it feels like being hit by a second storm. Understanding why they rejected your claim is your first step toward fighting back. Let’s look at the eight most common reasons insurers use to deny hurricane claims:
Denial Reason | Explanation | How to Address |
---|---|---|
Wind vs. Flood Damage | Standard policies cover wind but exclude flood damage | Demonstrate wind caused the damage; obtain separate flood policy |
Policy Exclusions | Specific perils not covered in your policy | Review policy carefully; obtain appropriate endorsements |
Missed Filing Deadlines | Claims filed outside the required timeframe | Document when damage was finded; prove timely filing |
Insufficient Documentation | Lack of photos, videos, or evidence of damage | Gather comprehensive documentation and expert opinions |
Unpaid Premiums | Coverage lapsed due to missed payments | Provide proof of payment; check for grace period provisions |
Pre-existing Damage | Insurer claims damage existed before the hurricane | Provide pre-storm photos/documentation of property condition |
Failure to Mitigate | Not taking reasonable steps to prevent further damage | Document all mitigation efforts with receipts and photos |
Under-deductible Losses | Damage costs less than your hurricane deductible | Obtain multiple repair estimates; challenge low valuations |
Your insurance policy is a contract, and you have rights as a policyholder. Insurance companies must treat you fairly and honestly when evaluating your claim – even though it sometimes doesn’t feel that way!
Most Frequent Denied Hurricane Damage Claim Scenarios
The numbers tell a troubling story. After Hurricanes Milton and Helene hit Florida, recent data from the Office of Insurance Regulation showed that as of October 23, 2023, a staggering 84.2% of Hurricane Milton claims and 68.2% of Hurricane Helene claims remained unresolved—either awaiting payment or heading toward denial.
The wind versus flood distinction tops the list of denied hurricane damage claim scenarios. After Hurricane Ian, thousands of Florida homeowners heard the same frustrating words: “Sorry, that’s flood damage, not wind damage.” Since standard homeowners policies exclude flooding, these claims were promptly rejected.
Hurricane deductibles create another common heartbreak scenario. Unlike your regular $500 or $1,000 deductible, hurricane deductibles in Florida typically range from 2% to 10% of your home’s insured value. For a $300,000 home, that means you’re looking at $6,000 to $30,000 out of pocket before your coverage kicks in.
I recently spoke with a homeowner from Pensacola who learned this the hard way after Hurricane Sally: “My adjuster said the damage was $12,000, but my hurricane deductible was $15,000. They denied my claim entirely, even though my roof was clearly damaged by the storm.”
How Policy Exclusions Trigger Denials
Policy exclusions are the fine print that can leave you high and dry—sometimes literally—after a hurricane. Understanding these exclusions before disaster strikes can help you avoid a denied hurricane damage claim.
The flood exclusion is the biggest culprit. Your standard homeowners policy explicitly excludes damage from:
– Rising water
– Storm surge
– Overflow of bodies of water
– Surface water runoff
To protect against flood damage, you need a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. Shockingly, the Insurance Information Institute reports that only 4% of U.S. households have flood insurance. That leaves millions of homeowners vulnerable to claim denials.
As Mark Friedlander of the Insurance Information Institute points out: “If you don’t have flood insurance, the windstorm coverage in your standard property insurance policy will not cover the loss.” He adds a crucial warning: “You don’t need to live in a designated flood plain to suffer a catastrophic flood loss.”
Another sneaky exclusion involves how your property is valued. Many policies pay “Actual Cash Value” (ACV) instead of “Replacement Cost Value” (RCV). With ACV, depreciation gets subtracted from your payout. Imagine your 10-year-old roof originally cost $12,500. With depreciation, the insurer might value it at only $7,500—even though replacing it today costs $15,000. That gap comes straight out of your pocket.
Understanding these common denial reasons puts you in a stronger position to fight back. And remember, you don’t have to face this battle alone. Sometimes having an experienced professional in your corner makes all the difference.
First 72 Hours After Denial: Critical Moves
The first 72 hours after receiving a denied hurricane damage claim are crucial. These initial days can make or break your chances of successfully overturning the denial. Think of this period as your window of opportunity—a time when quick, strategic action can set the stage for everything that follows.
First things first—take a deep breath. It’s normal to feel frustrated or even angry when your claim is denied, especially after experiencing the trauma of a hurricane. But now’s the time for clear-headed action, not emotion.
Request that detailed denial letter if you haven’t received one already. Florida insurers are legally required to explain exactly why they’re denying your claim, with specific references to your policy. Don’t settle for vague explanations or verbal denials—get it in writing.
Next, pull out your insurance policy and brew a strong cup of coffee. I know, insurance policies aren’t exactly beach reading, but understanding your coverage is your best defense. Pay close attention to the sections mentioned in your denial letter, focusing on covered perils, exclusions, deductibles, and appeal deadlines.
While the denial is still fresh, gather additional evidence that directly addresses the reasons for rejection. Take new, detailed photos of all damage from multiple angles. Get written estimates from licensed contractors who can confirm the hurricane caused your damage. If you’ve made temporary repairs, keep those receipts and document everything with before-and-after photos.
One smart move many homeowners overlook is starting a claim journal. This simple notebook (or digital document) becomes your command center—record every phone call with your insurer, including who you spoke with, when, and what was discussed. Note weather data from the hurricane, when you finded damage, and every expense related to repairs or mitigation.
“My claim journal was my saving grace,” shared Maria from Tampa after Hurricane Irma. “When the insurance company claimed they never received my documentation, I had dated records of exactly when I sent everything and who confirmed receipt.”
Don’t dispose of damaged items until your claim is fully resolved. If something must be removed for safety reasons, document it thoroughly first with photos and videos. This physical evidence can be crucial if your case goes to mediation or court.
Your policy requires you to continue mitigation efforts even after a denial. Keep protecting your property from further damage, and document these efforts carefully. This demonstrates you’re fulfilling your contractual obligations even as you fight the denial.
Denied Hurricane Damage Claim Notice: Reading the Fine Print
When that denied hurricane damage claim letter arrives, what’s not said can be as important as what is. Insurance companies use specific language that often contains clues for your appeal strategy.
Start by identifying the exact policy clauses cited in the denial. These references aren’t just formalities—they’re your roadmap for challenging the decision. If the denial doesn’t reference specific policy provisions, that’s actually good news and possibly grounds for appeal.
The stated reason for denial should be crystal clear, not vague. If your letter says something general like “damage not covered” without specifics, the insurer may be on shaky ground. Demand clarification.
Circle that appeal deadline with a bright red marker. Most policies specify a time limit ranging from 30 to 180 days. Missing this deadline can permanently forfeit your right to appeal, so mark it on every calendar you have.
Pay attention to any mentions of “required documentation” in the denial. This tells you exactly what evidence was lacking in your initial claim—and what you need to provide now. If the letter mentions policy exclusions, verify that these exclusions genuinely apply to your situation. Many homeowners successfully appeal by demonstrating that the cited exclusion doesn’t actually apply to their specific damage.
“Insurance carriers must act fairly and honestly when dealing with people making claims against their policies.” – Florida Statutes §624.155
This statute is more than just words—it’s legal protection that requires insurers to handle claims in good faith. If your denial contains misrepresentations or fails to provide a clear explanation, you may have grounds for a bad faith claim in addition to your appeal.
James from Fort Myers shared: “After Hurricane Ian, my denial letter claimed I had pre-existing roof damage, but they couldn’t provide any evidence of this. When I pointed out in my appeal that they had the burden of proving pre-existing conditions—not me—they quickly changed their tune.”
A denial is often just the opening move in a negotiation. How you respond in these first 72 hours sets the tone for everything that follows.
Building a Bulletproof Appeal
After receiving a denied hurricane damage claim, your next step is building a comprehensive appeal that addresses every reason for denial. A strong appeal can overturn the initial decision and secure the compensation you deserve.
Think of your appeal as telling the complete story of your damage. Begin with a formal letter that addresses each denial reason specifically. This isn’t the time for emotional pleas—stick to facts and policy provisions that support your case. Your tone should be professional but firm.
The heart of your appeal is supplemental evidence. If your insurer claims the damage existed before the hurricane, pull out those pre-storm photos showing your home in good condition. For those frustrating wind versus flood disputes, consider hiring a meteorologist to document the wind speeds in your area during the storm. When the insurance company says the damage isn’t significant enough, multiple contractor estimates can prove otherwise.
A sworn proof of loss adds serious weight to your claim. This notarized document details all damaged items and their value. It shows you’re willing to legally attest to the accuracy of your claim—something that makes insurance companies take notice.
Expert opinions can be game-changers. A structural engineer can confirm that your home’s damage patterns match those caused by hurricane winds. Roofing specialists can identify telltale signs of wind damage that adjusters might miss. Water remediation experts can help distinguish between storm-driven rain (usually covered) and flooding (typically excluded).
Don’t overlook the power of comparison. If your neighbors with similar damage had their claims approved, document this inconsistency. Insurance companies should treat similar claims consistently, and highlighting these discrepancies can strengthen your case.
One Pensacola property owner shared this success story: “After Hurricane Sally, my claim was denied because the insurer said my roof damage was due to age, not wind. I hired a structural engineer who documented the wind uplift patterns and compared them to neighboring properties. I included this report with contractor estimates and photos in my appeal. The insurer reversed their decision and paid my claim in full.”
The statistics are encouraging—approximately 40% of initially denied claims are approved upon appeal when properly documented. Persistence truly pays off when fighting a denied hurricane damage claim.
For more comprehensive guidance, check out our 9 Tips for Filing Hurricane Damage Claim in Florida.
Denied Hurricane Damage Claim Appeal Checklist
When appealing a denied hurricane damage claim, organization is key. Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure your appeal covers all bases:
Before submitting your appeal, gather all the essential pieces. Start with the denial letter—understand exactly why they’re saying no. Pull together your policy documents, including that declarations page with all your coverage details. Compile every email, letter, and note from conversations with the insurance company.
Your evidence collection should be thorough. Those photos and videos you took right after the storm? Gather them all. Statements from witnesses who saw the damage happen? Add those too. Get multiple repair estimates—not just one—from licensed contractors who can detail exactly what needs fixing and why.
When crafting your appeal letter, include all the basics: policy number, claim number, date of loss, and date of denial. Then systematically address each reason they gave for denying your claim. Reference specific policy provisions that support your position. List all the supporting documents you’re including. Be clear about what you want—approval of your claim, a reinspection, or whatever specific action you’re seeking.
The submission process matters too. Send everything via certified mail so you have proof it was received. Keep copies of absolutely everything. Follow up within a week to confirm they got your appeal. Document every conversation about your appeal—date, time, who you spoke with, and what was said.
One Orlando client told us: “Following the appeal checklist from Global Public Adjusters saved my claim after Hurricane Irma. My initial claim was denied because the adjuster claimed the water damage came from a pre-existing roof leak. I followed the checklist, gathered contractor statements proving the damage was from wind-driven rain through hurricane-damaged roof vents, and submitted a comprehensive appeal. My $42,000 claim was approved within three weeks.”
Documentation Homeowners Should Compile
Proper documentation is your strongest weapon when fighting a denied hurricane damage claim. The more evidence you have, the harder it is for insurance companies to maintain their denial.
Visual evidence tells a story that’s hard to dispute. If you can find photos of your property before the hurricane, these establish your home’s pre-storm condition. After the storm, take photos and videos from multiple angles—wide shots showing overall damage, close-ups of specific problems, interior and exterior views, water lines, and damaged personal belongings. Consider drone photography for roof damage that’s hard to see from the ground. Don’t forget to document similar damage to neighboring properties—this helps establish the storm as the cause.
Professional assessments add credibility to your claim. Get at least three detailed repair estimates from licensed contractors. Have a structural engineer evaluate and document the cause of damage. Depending on your situation, you might need specialized inspections from roofing experts or mold specialists. Weather data showing wind speeds, rainfall amounts, and storm surge levels in your area can help prove the storm was capable of causing the damage you’re claiming.
Keep meticulous financial records. Save receipts for every emergency repair—tarps, water extraction, board-ups, generators. If you had to stay elsewhere, track those temporary housing expenses. Create a detailed inventory of damaged personal items, including descriptions, age, condition before the hurricane, replacement cost, and photos of the damaged items.
Communication records protect you from “he said, she said” situations. Maintain a chronological log of all contacts with your insurer. Document every adjuster visit and conversation. Keep proof of when you first reported the claim.
A Florida homeowner shared this success story: “After my Hurricane Irma claim was denied, I created a three-inch binder with tabbed sections for each type of documentation. When I met with my public adjuster, he said it was the most organized claim he’d ever seen. The insurance company reversed their denial within two weeks after receiving our appeal with this documentation.”
Organization isn’t just helpful—it’s persuasive. When you present your evidence in a clear, systematic way, you’re showing the insurance company you’re serious about your claim and prepared to fight for what you deserve.
Bad Faith & Florida Deadlines: Know Your Rights
When your denied hurricane damage claim leaves you feeling helpless, Florida law offers significant protections for policyholders. Insurance companies must play by the rules – and when they don’t, you have recourse.
Insurance is a two-way street. While you have obligations to report damage promptly and pay premiums, your insurer has legal duties too. Under Florida Statutes §624.155, insurance companies must handle claims fairly, honestly, and in good faith. When they fail to meet these standards, you can take action.
What exactly constitutes “bad faith”? Think of it as your insurer breaking its promises to you. This happens when they unreasonably delay processing your claim, deny it without proper investigation, offer ridiculously low settlements, or misrepresent what your policy covers. Each of these actions violates the trust at the heart of your insurance contract.
“After Hurricane Ian, my insurer kept ‘losing’ my documentation and changed adjusters three times,” shares Tampa homeowner Maria. “Each new adjuster would request the same information again. It took filing a Civil Remedy Notice for them to suddenly find all my paperwork and process my claim properly.”
Florida’s timeline requirements are strict, so keep these critical deadlines in mind:
First notice of loss: Most policies require you to report damage within 24-72 hours of finding it. Even if you’re dealing with post-hurricane chaos, prioritize making this initial report.
Proof of loss submission: You typically have 60 days after the insurer requests it to submit your formal proof of loss – a detailed inventory of damaged items and their value.
Civil Remedy Notice: Before filing a bad faith lawsuit, Florida requires you to file this notice with the Department of Financial Services and give your insurer 60 days to fix the problem. It’s like a final warning shot.
Statute of limitations: You have 5 years from your date of loss to file a breach of contract lawsuit. This might seem like plenty of time, but hurricane claim disputes can drag on, so stay vigilant about this deadline.
Appraisal demands: If your policy includes an appraisal clause (many do), there may be specific timeframes for invoking this process.
Keeping detailed records becomes your best friend in these situations. Document every phone call, email, and in-person meeting with your insurer. Note the date, time, who you spoke with, and what was discussed. These records create a paper trail that can prove invaluable if you need to demonstrate bad faith.
Signs Your Insurer Is Acting in Bad Faith
Sometimes it’s hard to tell if your denied hurricane damage claim reflects legitimate policy interpretation or if your insurer is treating you unfairly. Here are the red flags that suggest your insurance company has crossed the line:
Superficial investigations speak volumes about an insurer’s intentions. If your adjuster spent just minutes at your property, didn’t examine all damaged areas, failed to take measurements or photos, or dismissed complex damage without expert consultation, they’re likely building a case for denial rather than truly assessing your loss.
“The adjuster never even climbed onto my roof after Hurricane Michael,” recalls Jacksonville homeowner David. “He glanced up from the driveway, took two photos, and declared there was no storm damage – just ‘normal wear and tear.’ My roofer was shocked when I told him.”
Mysteriously disappearing paperwork is another troubling sign. When your insurer repeatedly claims they never received documents you’ve sent multiple times, they’re likely stalling. Legitimate document loss is rare – repeated “losses” suggest intentional delays.
Endless delays without explanation shouldn’t be tolerated. Weeks or months passing without updates, unanswered calls and emails, constantly changing adjusters, or perpetually postponed decisions all point to bad faith practices designed to wear you down until you accept less than you deserve.
Policy misrepresentations happen when your insurer cites exclusions that don’t exist or don’t apply to your situation, incorrectly states your coverage limits, improperly calculates deductibles, or interprets policy language in ways that contradict standard industry practices.
Lowball offers that dramatically undervalue your damage without explanation show bad faith. When your settlement offer is a fraction of legitimate contractor estimates, includes excessive depreciation, arbitrarily excludes certain damages, or comes without any calculation explanation, your insurer isn’t negotiating honestly.
“Denied claims are far more common than most people realize, often due to technicalities, vague policy language, or insurers acting in bad faith.”
If you recognize these patterns, start documenting every instance immediately. This evidence becomes crucial if you need to pursue a bad faith claim or Civil Remedy Notice.
Insurance companies count on most policyholders giving up when faced with resistance. Your persistence and knowledge of your rights can turn the tables when dealing with a denied hurricane damage claim.
Professional Help & FAQs
When you’re staring at a denied hurricane damage claim letter, it can feel like you’re fighting an uphill battle alone. The good news? You don’t have to tackle this challenge by yourself. Knowing when and how to bring in the professionals can transform your claim from a denial to a fair settlement.
When to Hire a Public Adjuster or Attorney
Think of public adjusters and attorneys as different specialists in your claim recovery team. Each brings unique skills to the table at different stages of your fight.
A public adjuster becomes your advocate when your claim hits roadblocks. They’re particularly valuable when your claim involves complex damage, when the insurance company’s offer doesn’t come close to covering repairs, or when you simply don’t have the time or expertise to document everything properly.
Public adjusters typically charge 10-15% of your final settlement, but don’t let that percentage scare you. Studies consistently show they often secure settlements 40-350% higher than insurance companies’ initial offers. That math works strongly in your favor!
“After my roof was damaged in Hurricane Ian, the insurance company offered me $12,000,” shares Maria from Tampa. “It wouldn’t even cover half the repairs. My public adjuster documented everything properly and got me $38,000 – even after their fee, I came out $18,000 ahead.”
Attorneys become necessary when you face more serious obstacles. Consider legal help when your appeal has been repeatedly denied, when you suspect bad faith practices, or when you’re dealing with ambiguous policy language that the insurer is twisting to their advantage. Attorneys typically work on contingency fees of 33-40%, but for substantial claims, their expertise can be well worth it.
Many policies also contain mediation or arbitration provisions that can provide alternatives to litigation. These options often resolve disputes faster and with less expense than going to court.
Where to File Complaints & Find Help
Beyond hiring professionals, several resources can support your fight against a denied hurricane damage claim:
The Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) can be your first stop for help. Their Insurance Consumer Helpline (1-877-693-5236) connects you with specialists who understand the nuances of Florida insurance law. They can investigate complaints and sometimes even mediate between you and your insurer.
United Policyholders is a fantastic non-profit organization that offers free claim help libraries, webinars, and sample appeal letters. They’re consumer advocates who truly understand the challenges you’re facing.
If you’re dealing with flood insurance issues, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides a specific appeals process and technical assistance for documenting flood damage. After major disasters, FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers offer in-person guidance on both insurance and federal assistance options.
Professional organizations like the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) can help you find reputable public adjusters in your area, while state bar associations can connect you with experienced insurance attorneys.
“The combination of hiring Global Public Adjusters and filing a complaint with Florida’s DFS completely turned my claim around,” explains Robert from Orlando. “After being denied twice following Hurricane Irma, my claim was approved within three weeks once I had the right help.”
Frequently Asked Questions about Denied Hurricane Damage Claims
What deadlines apply to appealing a denial in Florida?
Time is not your friend when dealing with a denied hurricane damage claim in Florida. Several critical deadlines can make or break your case:
Your policy appeal deadline typically ranges from 30 to 180 days after denial. This information should appear in your denial letter and policy documents. Missing this deadline can permanently forfeit your right to appeal.
Florida law generally gives you 3 years from the hurricane date to submit claims for additional damage finded after your initial claim. This is crucial for hidden damage that might not be immediately apparent.
For lawsuits against your insurer, Florida has a 5-year statute of limitations for breach of contract claims. However, before filing a bad faith lawsuit, you must file a Civil Remedy Notice and give the insurer 60 days to respond.
James from Pensacola learned this lesson the hard way: “I missed my policy’s 60-day appeal deadline after Hurricane Sally. When I finded additional damage months later, the insurer refused to consider it. I ended up paying $15,000 out-of-pocket for repairs that should have been covered.”
Does filing a denied hurricane damage claim raise my rates?
This is a common concern, and unfortunately, even denied hurricane damage claims can potentially affect your insurance rates. Claims typically remain on your insurance record for 3-7 years, regardless of whether they were approved or denied.
Multiple claims, even denied ones, may flag you as a higher risk to insurers. However, Florida law does offer some protection by prohibiting non-renewal based solely on a single claim. Rate increases after denied claims are also typically less significant than after paid claims.
Some insurers offer “claim-free” discounts that you might lose even with denied claims. However, this shouldn’t discourage you from filing legitimate claims. The financial impact of paying for major hurricane repairs out-of-pocket almost always exceeds any potential rate increase.
“I was worried about rate hikes after filing my Hurricane Irma claim,” says Lisa from Miami. “But even after my initially denied claim was approved on appeal for $42,000, my annual premium only went up by about $300. That’s a no-brainer compared to paying for repairs myself.”
How much does a public adjuster cost?
Public adjusters typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you get paid. In Florida, these fees are regulated by state law to protect consumers:
For standard claims, public adjusters can charge up to 10% of the claim settlement. During a declared state of emergency like a hurricane, fees are capped at 10% for the first $500,000 of your settlement and 5% for amounts exceeding $500,000.
While paying a percentage of your settlement might seem significant, the math often works strongly in your favor. Consider this real example from one of our clients: “After Hurricane Irma, my insurer offered $68,000 for my damaged property. Global Public Adjusters identified overlooked damage and negotiated a $215,000 settlement. Their 10% fee was $21,500, but I still walked away with $125,500 more than the original offer.”
Most reputable public adjusters, including Global Public Adjusters, offer free initial consultations to evaluate your claim before you commit to their services. This allows you to understand your options without any financial risk.
Conclusion
Fighting a denied hurricane damage claim can feel overwhelming, but it’s a battle worth waging. As we’ve seen throughout this guide, insurance companies deny claims for various reasons—some legitimate, others questionable. The key to success lies in understanding your policy, documenting your damage thoroughly, following proper procedures, and knowing when to seek professional help.
Remember these critical takeaways:
Act quickly after a denial. Those first 72 hours are crucial—request a detailed explanation in writing, dive into your policy details, and start gathering additional evidence immediately. Time is rarely on your side in these situations, so quick action pays dividends.
Documentation is your strongest ally. Those photos and videos you take, the contractor estimates you gather, the expert reports you commission—these aren’t just papers to file away. They’re your voice when the insurance company isn’t listening. Many of our clients have turned denials into approvals simply by presenting overwhelming evidence the insurer couldn’t ignore.
Know your rights and deadlines. Florida law offers significant protections for policyholders, but these protections vanish if you miss critical deadlines. Whether it’s the 60-day window for filing a Civil Remedy Notice or the 5-year statute of limitations, timing matters enormously in these cases.
Recognize bad faith practices. When your insurer drags their feet, denies your claim without proper investigation, or offers a settlement that wouldn’t cover half your repairs, they may be acting in bad faith. This isn’t just frustrating—it gives you additional legal options that could significantly increase your recovery.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help. The deck is often stacked against individual homeowners fighting massive insurance companies. Public adjusters and attorneys level the playing field, bringing expertise that frequently results in settlements many times higher than what homeowners secure on their own.
At Global Public Adjusters, we’ve helped thousands of Florida homeowners overturn denied hurricane claims. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team knows exactly how to document damage, interpret policy language, and negotiate with insurers to maximize your settlement. We work on a contingency basis, meaning we only get paid when you do.
“Fighting a denial is not just about recovering costs; it’s about securing your future.”
The aftermath of a hurricane is difficult enough without battling your insurance company. Let us handle the complex claim process while you focus on rebuilding your life. Whether you’re in Orlando, Pensacola, or anywhere in Florida, we’re here to help you fight back against unjust claim denials.
Contact Global Public Adjusters today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your denied hurricane damage claim. Together, we can turn that frustrating denial into the fair settlement you deserve.