Has a Hurricane Damaged Your Property?
US residents file hundreds of thousands of hurricane damage claims in years with multiple bad storms. In 2024 alone, NOAA says there were 27 individual weather and climate disasters across the country with at least $1 billion in damages, totaling $182.7 billion. The southeast United States is famous for being a hotbed for tropical activity, and residents living here are no strangers to packing up, evacuating, and hoping for the best when it comes to their homes. That’s what makes hurricane damage insurance so crucial to any community prone to these storms. However, in recent years, insurance companies have begun pulling out of susceptible areas or only offering minimal coverage to residents. This leaves countless homeowners scared and uncertain of where to turn in the event of a storm.
The hurricane damage claims lawyers at Kanner & Pintaluga are here to help. Recovering after a storm is challenging enough. From fixing property damage to restoring power, replacing spoiled food, and ensuring the structural integrity of a home, residents face countless obstacles. Getting the compensation you deserve from your homeowner’s insurance policy shouldn’t be one of them.
Catastrophic damage from high sustained winds, flooding, and historic rainfall levels drench coastlines each year. Tornadoes, storm surges, and inland flooding are common occurrences during these massive storms. The result is downed power lines, flooded homes, and ruined property. In the worst cases, human fatalities reach the double digits. Hurricane season lasts from June 1 until November 30, a terrifying time for residents and homeowners. Many count on their insurance policies to have their backs when a nightmare storm occurs. But what happens when the insurance companies fight back, leaving policyholders to hang in the wind?
You’re not alone if you have a property damage claim related to a hurricane. The sooner you act, the better your chances of receiving full and fair compensation. With so many people filing property damage claims simultaneously following a storm, speed is of the essence.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. If you’re not receiving the service you deserve or your claim is being unfairly denied or undervalued, the team at Kanner & Pintaluga is ready to help. Contact our hurricane damage lawyers as soon as possible by filling out our form or calling us at 800.586.5555.
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Kanner & Pintaluga Property Damage Attorneys Are Ready to Help
With over 100 years of combined experience, our expert trial team at Kanner & Pintaluga’s law firm is dedicated to resolving Property Insurance claims for our clients aggressively and efficiently. We handle and litigate residential and commercial property claims arising from Wind, Water, Storm, Mold, Hail, Roof Leaks, Vandalism, Marine Damage, Fire, Tornado, Plumbing Leaks, Sinkhole, Hurricanes, and other causes. Our attorneys are seasoned litigators with the resources to go head to head with any insurance company.
Damage to your home, business, boat, or any other property from natural disasters can create hazardous living conditions that demand immediate attention. Often, insurance companies are more concerned with preserving their bottom line than providing the policyholders the benefits they bargained for. The First Party team at Kanner & Pintaluga is here to provide aggressive representation to ensure that insurance companies remain true to the terms of their policies.
When Insurance companies deny or underpay claims, we will help you through the process of your hurricane property damage claim and recover all the money owed to you quickly. The statue of limitations on property claims could be 3 years depending on the event.
In the aftermath of a hurricane or other disaster, dealing with your insurance company can be confusing and frustrating. At Kanner & Pintaluga, we are committed to helping you through the process, educating, communicating, and protecting you from liability.
Kanner & Pintaluga has offices throughout Florida and will come to you to fight for your rights. There is absolutely no cost to our clients unless we win your case. Call us for a free consultation 1-800-586-5555
Hurricane Damage Lawyers Ready to Fight for You
For centuries, hurricanes have impacted the United States, with coastal areas along the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico being the most frequently affected. Since the start of official tracking in 1851, the U.S. has experienced hundreds of hurricanes — many of them causing substantial economic loss and catastrophic property damage. While certain states experience a larger portion of categorized landfalls than others, no region is immune to the potential devastation of a major storm.
In recent years, damage has not been limited to the coast. Inland communities in states like Louisiana, North Carolina, and even parts of the Northeast and Midwest have experienced significant impacts from high winds, flooding, and tornadoes spawned by hurricanes. Cities hundreds of miles from the coast can still face destructive conditions and prolonged recovery efforts.
Hurricane Damage Prone Areas in the Gulf Coast Region
The Gulf Coast — including parts of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida — is one of the most well-known hurricane hot spots in the U.S. Rising temperatures in the Gulf waters contribute to the intensity of storms, making this region particularly susceptible. Notable storms such as Hurricane Katrina (2005), Hurricane Harvey (2017), and Hurricane Ida (2021) all caused widespread devastation in different parts of the region.
The residents in this region are all too familiar with filing hurricane damage claims, with many affected counties throughout the Gulf Coast enduring volatile seasons each year. Some of the most hit include:
- Harris County, TX
- Orleans Parish, LA
- Mobile County, AL
- Harrison County, MS
- Escambia County, FL
Southeastern United States Hurricane Damages
The Southeast — including states like Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina — frequently experiences hurricane activity, often with significant wind damage and dangerous flooding. The Atlantic hurricane season regularly brings storms that move inland after making landfall along the southeastern coast.
Major hurricanes such as Hurricane Hugo (1989), Hurricane Matthew (2016), and Hurricane Helene (2024) have outlined the increased vulnerability of this region as storms continue to get stronger.
Many homeowners, renters, and business owners throughout the Southeast are affected by these storms, including residents in:
- Charleston County, SC
- Chatham County, GA
- New Hanover County, NC
Hurricane Activity in the Eastern Seaboard and Inland Regions
Even areas not typically known for direct hurricane landfalls — such as parts of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania — can suffer immense damage from remnants of tropical systems. Superstorm Sandy (2012) was a powerful reminder of how far inland hurricane effects can reach.
Storm-related losses can occur in both coastal and inland areas, including:
- Nassau County, NY
- Monmouth County, NJ
- Philadelphia County, PA
Hurricane Resources in the United States
Preparation is key when it comes to hurricane safety, but even the best preventative plans can be upended by shifting storm paths and stronger systems than expected. Whether you’re dealing with a direct hit, outer bands, or unexpected storm damage from flooding or tornadoes, it’s crucial to know where to turn for help.
The hurricane claim attorneys at Kanner & Pintaluga are here to guide you through the recovery process. For additional resources and emergency assistance, you may contact:
- FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)
- The American Red Cross
- National Weather Service (NWS)
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Disaster Resources
- Operation Blue Roof – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
- Your local and state emergency management agencies
Please visit the official website of your local government or emergency management agency for more detailed and location-specific support.
Hurricane Property Damage Includes
Water Damage
Water can cause serious damage to property and promote the growth of toxic mold that render the premises unusable. Insurance policies routinely cover water damage, but often exempt flood damage from coverage.
Roof Damage
Roof Damage can be caused by several factors. For example, poor maintenance can cause a minor damage to become a major problem. Strong winds can severely damage a poorly maintained roof. Make sure to check that the tiles are securely attached.
Flooding
A flood is a natural event where a piece of land that is usually dry, suddenly gets submerged under water. Flooding can occur from excessive rainfall; this leads to an overflow of water from rivers or lakes causing property and home damage.
Hurricane Property Damage Lawyers: Frequently Asked Questions
After a storm, families are often left reeling from the trauma. The cleanup can be daunting, and recovery may seem out of reach. The hurricane damage claims lawyers at Kanner & Pintaluga are here to help. From answering your questions to seeking the compensation you deserve, we fight for our clients every step of the way. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we hear following a hurricane.
How long do I have to file an insurance claim after a hurricane?
The deadline to file a hurricane damage insurance claim will vary by state. In Florida, it’s one year from the date of the hurricane. This is in accordance with each state’s statute of limitations for filing a property damage claim.
However, your specific insurance policy may have its own time limits for filing a claim or reporting damage. It’s best to report property damage and loss as soon as possible to avoid potential issues with your claim.
When do you need help from an attorney to file a hurricane insurance claim?
You likely require the help of a hurricane damage lawyer if your insurance company denies your claim or offers an underpayment on your claim. If your insurance claim is denied, a hurricane damage lawyer can help you understand why it was rejected and whether it was unjust. They can assist in appealing the decision or even take legal action if needed.
If your insurance company offers compensation that is less than the value of your total damages, an attorney can help negotiate a better offer.
What factors can affect a hurricane insurance payout?
Several factors can affect the payout of a hurricane insurance claim. These include the terms of your insurance policy, the nature of the damage, and how the insurer handles the claim. Here are some key factors that could impact your payout:
- Policy Type & Coverage Levels. For example, homeowner’s insurance often covers wind damage but not flood damage. Homeowners typically need separate flood insurance to cover such water damage. In some areas, wind damage may be covered separately under a “windstorm” policy.
- Deductibles. Many homeowners’ insurance policies have a separate hurricane deductible for storm-related damage. These deductibles can be significantly higher than regular deductibles and may be calculated as a percentage of the policy’s coverage limit. Higher deductibles mean lower payouts.
- Policy Exclusions. Some policies exclude certain types of damage, which could affect your payout. For example, homeowners’ insurance typically doesn’t cover flood damage.
- Damage Assessment & Documentation. Your compensation will depend on the quality of your damage assessment and the documentation you provide. Insurance adjusters will assess the damage to determine the payout. Still, you’ll need to prove the extent of the damage with photos and video, repair estimates from contractors, and inventory lists for lost property.
- Property Value. Some policies provide payouts based on the Actual Cash Value of a home, which factors in depreciation. This means the payout will be lower for older items or structures as their value has decreased.
- Insurance Claim History. If you’ve made several claims in the past, your insurer might scrutinize your current claim more carefully or raise your rates in the future. If you’ve had disputes over past claims, your insurer might be more inclined to challenge or deny your current claim.
- Damage Mitigation. If you took steps to mitigate damage (such as installing storm shutters, reinforcing your roof, or elevating your property), the insurance company might factor that into the payout.
Do I need a hurricane damage claims lawyer if my insurance company offers compensation?
Yes, hiring a hurricane damage lawyer for representation after a storm is always best. Insurance companies receive many claims at once following major hurricanes, with losses totaling millions (or billions) of dollars per region. Due to the excessive claims, an insurance company may try to undervalue your damage and offer you a lesser claim than you deserve. An experienced property damage attorney can help fight your case and get the compensation you’re entitled to.
What types of damage are covered under hurricane claims?
Hurricane claims can cover a wide range of damages to your property, but the specific coverage depends on your insurance policy. Policies may cover damage, including:
- Wind Damage (damage to roofs, windows, doors, exterior siding, and more)
- Flooding (water intrusion, storm surge, leaking roofs)
- Tree and Fallen Debris Damage and Removal
- Damage to Vehicles
- Personal Property Damage
- Loss of Use and Additional Living Expenses
- And More
What happens if my insurance company denies my claim?
If your insurance company denies your hurricane damage claim, it can be frustrating and stressful, but there are several steps you can take to resolve the issue. Contacting a hurricane damage lawyer immediately is your best course of action.
We’ll evaluate your claim and review the reason for the denial. We’ll review your insurance policy and submit an appeal. This process may include submitting additional evidence, clarifying coverage, and requesting a formal review by the insurance company. We’ll help determine if the insurer’s actions were unreasonable and can assist in filing a bad-faith insurance lawsuit if necessary.
Can I file a lawsuit against my insurance company?
Yes, you can file a lawsuit against your insurance company if it wrongfully denies your hurricane damage claim or fails to provide fair compensation. Speak with a hurricane property damage lawyer as quickly as possible to:
- Determine the basis of your claim.
- Review your insurance policy.
- Attempt to resolve the dispute.
- Gather evidence for your lawsuit.
- File a formal complaint.
How much does a hurricane damage claims lawyer cost?
The hurricane insurance lawyers at Kanner & Pintaluga work on a contingency basis. That means we don’t take a penny if you don’t receive compensation. There is no fee for you if there is no financial recovery.
Operating on a contingency fee basis allows clients to focus on recovery and rebuilding after a storm. We know that repairs can be costly–legal fees are the last thing you should worry about right now.
Will my insurance premiums go up if I file a hurricane damage claim?
Yes, your insurance premiums may increase after filing a hurricane damage claim, but this depends on several factors. Your claim history, state regulations, local risk factors, and more will all play a role in the cost of your policy. Increases are more likely in the event of sizable claims and for those who live in hurricane-prone areas. Reviewing your policy and considering mitigation measures to help prevent significant premium increases is always a good idea.
Contact Kanner & Pintaluga for a free
consultation, and let us provide you and your family with dedicated
service and get you the compensation you deserve.
Call 800.586.5555
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