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High winds can strike anytime of the year. While some areas of the country are more prone to gusty conditions than others, destructive winds may occur whenever there is a dramatic shift in temperature and barometric pressure. Property damage from wind can be catastrophic, including destruction of the following roofs, windows, trees, fences, landscaping and outbuildings. Broken glass and other sharp debris may also litter the ground after a windstorm. Homeowners seeking compensation for property damage due to high winds may face obstacles.
The following tips can help property owners seeking compensation for wind damage:
- Assess the damage carefully. Property damage due to high winds may go beyond that which meets the eye. If windows are broken or a roof is compromised, additional problems may arise, including:
- Water damage
- Structural damage
- Damage to plumbing and electrical systems
- Gas leaks
If it is safe to do so, take photos of current damage. Gather property photos taken prior to the storm to provide evidence that the wind caused the current damage. Be very careful when assessing your property after a storm as there may be broken glass or other sharp debris on the ground. Make a list of all personal items missing or destroyed.
Contact a lawyer. Insurance companies often attempt to avoid a full settlement, even though policyholders have been faithfully paying expensive premiums for years. Some of the reasons cited for denying maximum compensation include:
- Policy limitations or exclusions
- Prior wear-and-tear of property
- Delays in processing claims
Read your homeowners policy and contact your insurance company. Property damage due to wind should be covered, although this can vary by state and location. In addition to a deductible, your policy may include ambiguous limitations or exclusions, which might reduce the value of your claim. Your policy may also include an anti-concurrent causation clause. If it does, you may not be covered if the damage is the result of two causes. For example, if you do not have flood insurance and the high winds caused flooding, the insurance company may argue that it will not pay for water damage.
Your insurance company is in business to make money. It is in their best interest to pay you as little as possible. However, you have the right to contact a property damage lawyer if you believe you deserve more than the insurance company is offering.
Why Hire a Lawyer to Obtain Compensation?
You should hire a lawyer to represent your interests if your insurance company is not fulfilling its obligation to repair or replace damaged property. Insurance law can be complex, and a qualified Los Angeles property damage lawyer can read through your insurance policy and clarify the ambiguities for you. An experienced attorney can also perform the following valuable services:
- Explain the legal process involved in obtaining full compensation
- Answer any questions you may have about your policy
- Help you collect evidence to support your claim
- Manage interactions with the insurance company
- Work to ensure that your insurance company does not take advantage of you
LA Property Damage Lawyers at Abir Cohen Treyzon Salo, LLP Maximize Compensation for Wind Damage Claims
If your home or business was damaged in a storm, you may be eligible for financial compensation to repair or replace your affected property. Our LA property damage lawyers at Abir Cohen Treyzon Salo, LLP understand the difficulties of coping after a severe storm, and we are dedicated to helping you fully recover from your loss. Call 833-ACTS-LAW or fill out our convenient online form for a free evaluation of your claim. Located in San Diego and Los Angeles, we serve clients throughout Orange County and Los Angeles County, including Beverly Hills, Calabasas, Malibu, Santa Monica, Long Beach, Hidden Hills, Pasadena, San Marino, Brentwood, Encino, Newport Beach, and Foresthill.