Hurricane Milton wreaked havoc on homes, businesses, and communities across Florida. If you or a loved one were left with property damage in the aftermath, you must know how to document damages. The documentation process is crucial for insurance claims and disputes that may arise. Recommended steps to follow include:

Step 1. Stay Safe

It is important to prioritize your safety before documenting any damage. Hurricane Milton was responsible for causing downed power lines, flooding, and debris, which could pose a danger to you and your family. Assess whether it is safe to enter your property before doing so. If you have any concerns about structural integrity or hazards, contact local authorities or a professional for help.

Step 2. Take Photos and Videos of the Damage

Photographs and videos are among the most valuable evidence to support a hurricane damage claim. Visual documentation can give your insurers a clearer picture of the damage that occurred and its severity. Be thorough when documenting damage from Hurricane Milton, and pay attention to the following:

  • Exterior damage: Take photos of damage to your roof, windows, siding, fences, and other exterior areas. This may include garages, sheds, or carports. Pay attention to areas that have sustained wind or water damage.
  • Interior damage: Photograph every room in your home or business—document damage to walls, ceilings, flooring, and personal belongings. Be sure to capture water damage, mold, broken windows, and signs of flooding.

It is also helpful to take a video of your property. Walk through your home or business, inside and outside, and create a real-time record of the damage.

Step 3. Create An Inventory of Damaged Items

Creating an inventory of personal belongings damaged or destroyed during Hurricane Milton is important. This list will be critical for any insurance adjusters reviewing your claim and determining compensation. Be sure to provide the following:

  • A description of the item: List the make, model, brand, and other identifying details of the item.
  • The condition of the item before the storm: Note the item’s condition before Hurricane Milton and whether it was new, lightly used, or worn.
  • An estimated valuation: Provide an estimated value for the item based on its age and condition. Support your valuation with any receipts, invoices, or appraisals you may have.
  • Photos of the item: Take photos of your belongings that show the extent of the damage.

This inventory will increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for damaged property.

Step 4. Save Receipts for Repairs

You may need to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage to your property after Hurricane Milton. Temporary repairs include covering broken windows, tarping damaged roofs, or clearing debris. Save receipts and invoices related to these repairs in case the expenses are reimbursable by your insurance company.

You may also need to stay in temporary housing while repairs are being made. If you were required to relocate due to Hurricane Milton, keep receipts for hotel stays, meals, and other expenses. These costs may be covered under your homeowner’s insurance policy.

Step 5. Promptly Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process. The sooner you file your claim, the faster your insurance company can send an adjuster to assess the damage. Provide your insurance adjuster with all the documentation you have gathered related to Hurricane Milton, including photos and videos, your damage inventory, and receipts for any repairs.

Be sure to maintain a record of all communication with your insurance company, including the names of representatives you speak with and summaries of what you discussed. This information can be invaluable if you need to dispute a denial or low settlement offer.

Step 6. Consider Hiring A Public Adjuster or Attorney

Consider hiring a public adjuster or attorney in Port St. Lucie if you believe your insurance company is denying your claim or not offering a fair settlement. They can work on your behalf to negotiate with the insurance company and fight for fair compensation, especially if your insurance carrier is acting in bad faith. A Florida attorney experienced in property damage claims can review your case and take legal action, if necessary, to help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Contact A  Port St. Lucie Attorney For Help

Properly documenting damage after Hurricane Milton is an important step toward financial recovery. Take the time to carefully document everything so you are prepared to file an insurance claim and recover compensation for your losses. If you encounter difficulties with the claims process, an attorney in Port St. Lucie may be able to help.

Contact Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers For Help Today

For more information, please contact the StuartPort St. Lucie, or Palm Beach Gardens personal injury law firm of Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

We proudly serve Martin County,  St. Lucie CountyPalm Beach County, and its surrounding areas in Florida:

Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers
73 SW Flagler Ave
Stuart, FL 34994

(772) 444-7000

Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Port St. Lucie
1100 SW St. Lucie West Blvd. Ste 202
Port St Lucie, FL 34986

(772) 247-3374

Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Palm Beach Gardens
300 Avenue of the Champions Ste 220
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418

(561) 944-4000