Hurricane Damage Insurance Claim Attorneys

If you were referred by a trusted friend or found us through HurricaneAttorney.com, it’s probably because you have been let down by your insurance company during a hurricane insurance claim.

When a hurricane strikes, it can leave a path of devastation that turns your life upside down. As you survey the wreckage of your home or business, the last thing you need is an insurance company that refuses to honor your claim. Especially in the Gulf Coast region where our law offices are, the potential for wind damage, hail and hurricane damage is a yearly cause for concern. In the Galveston area alone, countless homeowners and commercial property owners have had to arrange for significant repairs at least once. Some have rebuilt using more storm-resistant materials and designs after major losses. We can see the results when we drive through town and witness how many properties along the coastline are now built on stilts, out of the range of floods.

Many properties have permanent storm shutters attached to them to protect windows during hailstorms and derechos (strong straight-line winds). However, even with these precautions, properties are often damaged by powerful winds and destructive hail.

At The Hodge Law Firm, PLLC, we understand the overwhelming stress and uncertainty you’re facing. From our base in Galveston, Texas, a city all too familiar with hurricane devastation, we’ve helped countless clients nationwide navigate the complex world of hurricane damage claims. With over 150 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys are ready to advocate for your rights and pursue the compensation available under your policy. 

If your claim has been delayed or denied, speaking with an attorney early can make a significant difference.

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Our Hurricane Claim Process

We work closely with our clients to build strong cases against insurance companies that attempt to minimize or deny hurricane damage claims. Understanding the insurance claims process can also help property owners know what to expect as a claim moves from initial documentation and investigation through the insurer’s coverage decision. Our attorneys are experienced in addressing a wide range of hurricane-related issues, including: 

• Wind damage to roofs and structures
• Storm surge and flooding
• Impact from flying debris
• Structural damage to walls, foundations, and other building components 
• Extended power outage consequences
• Evacuation-related losses

Whether you’re a homeowner facing a destroyed roof or a business owner dealing with inventory loss and extended closures, we’re here to help you pursue fair compensation.

Common Disputes Involving Hurricane Insurance Claims 

Insurance providers often employ various strategies to minimize payouts on hurricane damage claims. Some of these tactics include:

• Attributing damage to preexisting conditions to justify a denied hurricane insurance claim
• Separating wind and flood damage to reduce coverage
• Underestimating repair or replacement costs, resulting in underpaid hurricane insurance claims
• Delaying claim processing to frustrate policyholders
• Misinterpreting policy language to limit coverage

Our attorneys are well-versed in these strategies and work diligently to counter them, ensuring your claim receives fair consideration.

How An Attorney Strengthens Your Claim

Dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane is challenging enough without battling your insurance company. Here’s how our firm can make a crucial difference:

1. We understand the complexities of hurricane insurance claims.
2. We can accurately assess the full extent of your losses in a property damage claim.
3. We’re skilled in negotiating with insurance adjusters.
4. We can identify and pursue all available avenues of compensation.
5. We’re prepared to litigate if a fair settlement can’t be reached.

With our experience and knowledge, we work to pursue the full recovery available under your policy and help you move forward after a significant property loss. 

We Work With Experienced Damage Professionals 

The Hodge Law Firm works with engineers, damage consultants, contractors, builders and other professionals when appropriate to help document property damage claims. These professionals may use technology and inspection techniques such as 3-D imaging software, moisture detection meters, thermal imaging cameras, drones and satellite imagery to help assess the extent of the damage and properly document the loss. 

What To Do If You Have Hurricane Damage

After a hurricane, it is critically important to document everything you can. For a more detailed breakdown of what to do after hurricane damage, including steps to protect your property and preserve your insurance claim, review our guide for property owners. 

1. Immediately file a claim with your insurance company (get a claim number from your insurance)
2. Take photographs before you begin to clean up after the storm. If there are any downed trees or other debris on your property take photographs before you start to clean up and remove the debris.
3. Review your insurance policy for coverage. If your home is uninhabitable (no power, damage, no water) many insurance policies provide for Additional Living Expenses (ALE) or Loss of Use coverage which will pay for temporary housing.
4. Do not throw away any damaged items or contents (personal property) until the insurance company has had an opportunity to photograph the damaged property. For example, if you have wet carpeting or drywall you may need to remove it from the house to mitigate further damages from occurring, however, make sure you do not put those items out in the trash or to be hauled away until after the insurance company has inspected them.
5. After a hurricane, it is critically important to document everything you can about the claim process and your damages. Make a timeline of all phone calls with your insurance adjuster and a log of all communications you have had with the insurance company. Make notes of each conversation you have with an adjuster.
6. If you have damaged contents (personal property) you will need to make a list of all damaged items and the value of each item.
7. Hire a reputable local contractor. Get recommendations for contractors from family or friends. Research the contractor and check their reviews.

When Should You Hire A Hurricane Damage Attorney? 

After a major storm, dealing with property loss can be stressful and financially draining. Many homeowners expect their insurance company to provide prompt and fair consideration of their claim, but disputes can arise over coverage, the cause of the damage and the amount of the loss. That is why working with a property damage claim attorney can make a difference. 

Hire an attorney if:

• Your claim was denied or underpaid, leaving you with a denied insurance claim: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, leaving you with less than you need for repairs.
• The process is delayed: If your insurer is not responding or continues pushing back deadlines, an attorney can apply legal pressure.
• Your damages are severe: Large losses often bring disputes over coverage. An attorney can help prove the extent of your damages and protect your financial recovery.
• You feel overwhelmed by paperwork and legal terms: Insurance policies are complex. Having a legal professional review and negotiate helps ensure you are not taken advantage of. 

Working with our attorneys gives you an advocate who can review your policy, evaluate the insurer’s handling of the claim and protect your rights throughout the insurance dispute. 

Frequently Asked Questions On Hurricane Damage

Below are answers that may help you understand your next steps.

How long do I have to file a hurricane damage claim?

Deadlines for reporting and filing hurricane damage claims can vary depending on the insurance policy, applicable law and the circumstances of the loss. Property owners should review their policy carefully and report hurricane damage promptly to help preserve their rights under the policy. 

How do I know if I have a valid hurricane damage claim?

A valid claim usually requires proof that the hurricane caused direct damage to your property. Photos, receipts and professional inspections can help support your case.

An attorney can review your situation to confirm if your losses meet the standard for a claim.

Why should I work with an attorney after hurricane damage?

Insurance companies have adjusters, attorneys and other professionals involved in evaluating significant property claims. Hiring an insurance dispute attorney can help you understand your policy, document your losses and protect your interests when a dispute arises. 

Don’t Weather This Alone: Reach Out Today

Acting promptly after a hurricane can help preserve evidence and protect your rights under your insurance policy. If you’re struggling with a hurricane damage insurance claim, we’re here to help. Contact The Hodge Law Firm today for a free consultation. Call us at 409-762-5000 or visit our online contact page to schedule your appointment.