Flood Damage Attorney

If your home or business has been impacted by flooding, you don’t have to face the insurance claims process alone. At Vishio Watkins & Forry, PLLC, we understand how frustrating it can be when insurance companies delay, undervalue, or deny valid claims. We also understand that flood claims are governed by different laws and can be more complex than wind claims.

Our team of lawyers for flood damage is here to advocate on your behalf, working to pursue fair compensation for damage to your property, appliances, equipment, and personal belongings.

What to Do After a Flood Damages Your Property

Experiencing a flood can be incredibly traumatic. The onslaught of food waters can be incredibly fearful and devastating. But taking quick, thoughtful action is crucial to mitigate your losses and protect any future storm surge claim. If you are the victim of an unpredictable severe weather event, follow these steps.

1. Prioritize your safety. Floodwaters can conceal dangerous hazards like downed power lines or structural damage, so do not assess the area or walk into flood waters until authorities declare your property safe.
2. Record the damage: Document the affected areas with photos or video before making any repairs. These details are vital for filing your flood insurance claim and may also be required for assistance from agencies like FEMA.
3. Avoid immediate repairs. Refrain from making repairs until an insurance adjuster has assessed the damage. Premature repairs can complicate the claims process and invite coverage disputes.​
4. Consult an attorney. Contact a flood damage attorney to help you navigate complex insurance policies and protect your interests when insurers delay, underpay, or deny valid claims. Your flood damage attorney will review your policy, assist with documentation, and advocate on your behalf.
5. Contact your insurance provider. Notify your insurance company to initiate the claims process. Be prepared to provide detailed information about the damage and any immediate actions you’ve​ Follow the guidance of your flood damage claim attorney when communicating with your insurer.

What Kinds of Damage Does Flood Insurance Cover?

FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program defines a covered flood as a temporary and widespread condition where normally dry land is partially or fully submerged. The flooding must affect two adjacent properties or at least two acres of land to qualify.

Overflowing inland or tidal waters, heavy rainfall, mudslides, or erosion near bodies of water can cause flooding. If your situation meets these criteria, your flood insurance may cover various types of resulting damage.

Structural Damage

Flood insurance typically covers physical damage to the structural components of your home, including the foundation, walls, flooring, and roof. This can also include damage to built-in appliances, electrical and plumbing systems, staircases, and attached garages. Because structural integrity is critical to the safety of your home, documenting this type of damage thoroughly is an essential part of the claims process.

Personal Property

Flood insurance may also cover personal belongings damaged or destroyed by floodwaters. This can include furniture, clothing, electronics, and kitchen appliances that are not built in. However, coverage limits and conditions often apply, so it’s important to review your policy and inventory your losses in detail.

Basements

Although flood insurance offers limited coverage for basements, certain items may still be included, such as structural elements, water heaters, furnaces, and electrical systems. Depending on the policy, personal property stored in basements, like rugs, electronics, or furniture, may not be covered. Because basement coverage is more restrictive, clarifying what is and isn’t included with your insurer is important.

Common Bad Faith Tactics Insurance Companies Use to Deny Flood Insurance Claims

Insurance companies often use tactics to reduce the amount they pay on flood insurance claims.

They might delay the claims process to pressure homeowners into accepting a lower settlement. In some cases, insurers undervalue the damage by assigning figures that do not reflect the actual cost of repairs or replacement.

Others may rely on vague or technical language to justify denying coverage altogether. If you believe your claim has been mishandled or denied unfairly, speak with a flood damage attorney to evaluate your options and take informed next steps.

How An Experienced Flood Damage Attorney Can Help You

An experienced flood damage attorney can assist you in several ways.

• Policy review: Examining your insurance policy to identify coverage and potential exclusions.​
• Claims assistance: Guiding you through the claims process to ensure all necessary documentation is submitted.​
• Coordination of claims: If you have both wind and flood claims, this can be a delicate process.
• Negotiation: Engaging with your insurance company to negotiate a fair settlement.​
• Legal action: Representing you in legal proceedings for undervalued or denied flood insurance claims.

At Vishio Watkins & Forry, we support homeowners and business owners who have experienced the devastation of flood damage. Our skilled and caring legal team works closely with you to navigate the insurance claim process, address disputes, and pursue a resolution that accurately reflects the losses you have experienced.

If you are dealing with damage to your home or business after a hurricane or storm surge, we invite you to request a consultation to discuss your situation and learn how we can assist with your commercial or residential property claim. We help clients across Florida and the Gulf Coast States.