Dealing with property damage, whether it is from a storm, accident, or another catastrophe, can be very stressful. If your property is damaged, your main priority would be to get it repaired as quickly as possible.
However, dealing with the process of submitting a claim for your damaged property can be complex. It is also fraught with complexities, which could make a big difference in the payout you receive. The understanding of potential pitfalls, coupled with knowledge of how to avoid them, can make the claims process smoother.
Many think that submitting a claim is quite simple: all they need to do is report the damages caused by their insurance company. Reality is different, actually.
The procedure for filing a claim involves some important steps, and missing one can result in trouble or a lower payout. This is where property damage attorneys come in. An attorney who is experienced in dealing with insurance claims and possesses good negotiation skills will be able to represent your case well.
Some of the common mistakes in property damage claims, as well as how a lawyer can help, are discussed below.
1. Not Documenting the Damage Properly
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In every property damage case, failure to take full documentation of the damage is the most common mistake. Most people will take a few photos and walk away thinking that is sufficient evidence, which ends up proving inadequate for a proper claim.
A detailed photographic record with supportive, well-written notes, as well as third-party opinions, can set a solid foundation for a case. This is because insurance companies always look for gaps in proof to lower the value of claims. Extensive proof of the damage can help prevent this.
A property damage attorney can also help gather and organize all the evidence needed, ensuring that nothing will be left unexplored while adding further strength to your claim by facilitating professional evaluations or additional assessments.
2. Underestimating the Cost of Repairs
One of the common errors is that they undervalue the cost of repairs. Many individuals accept the initial estimates quoted or solely rely on the assessment by the insurance adjuster, which may not encompass all the repair needs or hidden damages.
Other added expenses, such as structural damage or future repairs, are overlooked and lead to a settlement that does not fully restore the property.
In the company of an experienced lawyer, you can obtain a proper estimate for repairing costs so that nothing related to damages is missed. Property damage attorneys often collaborate with repair experts to create accurate cost assessments, helping you receive the compensation you truly need.
3. Accepting a Quick Settlement
One of the tactics an insurance company uses to settle claims is making a quick offer, especially for cases involving large settlement amounts. While it sounds convenient, this method may lead you to accept an amount that doesn’t meet your requirements.
Many times, quick settlements are based on the initial estimates that would not include all of the costs. Once you accept the amount, trying to reopen the claim or asking for more money is very difficult.
A property damage attorney will negotiate with your insurance company to ensure you get the appropriate amount of damages before you accept a settlement. Lawyers know how to deal with insurance companies and will present a strong case to them to compel them into satisfactory compensation.
Conclusion
Some of the common mistakes made in property damage claims include poor documentation, cost underestimations, and rushing into a settlement. With the help of the best property damage attorneys, you will be able to avoid such pitfalls. You can relax as they go through all the technicalities involved in your case.
