Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Panama City experiences the occasional wrath of hurricanes and tropical storms. Most recently in 2018, Hurricane Michael devastated many homes and businesses in our community, leaving thousands with tough property damage claim fights.

These natural events, as well as other unforeseen disasters like flooding from plumbing leaks and home fires, bring forth a myriad of challenges for homeowners, ranging from structural damages to the complexities of navigating insurance claims.

At Kanner & Pintaluga, we stand by homeowners, fighting for their rights and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve in the aftermath of hurricanes and other types of property damage.

Tropical Storms and Hurricanes: Common Home Damages

Tropical storms and hurricanes often leave a trail of destruction in their wake. Homes face various types of damage, including wind damage, roof leaks, flooding and even foundational damage that compromises the safety and stability of structures. Understanding the nuances of these types of damage is crucial when pursuing an insurance claim.

Unfortunately, homeowners frequently encounter challenges as they grapple with insurance companies, who will typically look for any excuse to deny fair compensation for the losses incurred.

Why Insurance Companies Drop the Ball After Hurricanes in Panama City

In the aftermath of a hurricane, insurance companies are inundated with property damage claims. The surge in claim volume can lead to overwhelmed claims adjusters, resulting in delays and inadequate responses.

Insurance companies may bring in poorly trained temporary help with inadequate oversight. These insurance “professionals” may struggle to accurately assess the extent of damages or wrongly exclude damage from named perils.

Moreover, there can be an inherent conflict of interest during damage inspections, as insurance company employees may have incentives to find ways to deny or reduce the value of claims. These challenges underscore the importance of having a dedicated advocate on your side, ensuring your rights are protected.

Other Types of Property Damage Common in Florida

Beyond the realm of hurricanes and tropical storms, Florida homeowners face various other property damage risks. Home fires, often caused by the all too common lightning strikes in Florida, can lead to extensive water and smoke damage due to firefighting efforts. Plumbing leaks, a common issue in many homes, can result in water damage that may compromise the structural integrity of a property and cause tens of thousands of dollars in personal property damage. Instances of vandalism also contribute to property damage concerns for homeowners in Panama City.

Challenges Families Often Face When Dealing With the Insurance Company on Property Damage Claims

The aftermath of a storm or other property damage can be overwhelming for families. Beyond the immediate concerns of safety and shelter, dealing with insurance companies presents its own set of challenges. Families may encounter delays, inadequate assessments of damages or disputes over the value of the claimed losses. Having a knowledgeable and experienced legal team can make a significant difference in navigating these challenges and securing fair compensation.