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Offices4608 Rye St Metairie, LA 70006
PRACTICE AREASStorm Damage Attorney – Slidell & Metairie
Severe storms can cause extensive damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, and other property. High winds, hail, heavy rain, flooding, fallen trees, and other storm-related conditions can leave property owners facing costly repairs and significant financial losses. When an insurance company denies, delays, or undervalues a legitimate storm damage claim, you may have legal options to protect your interests. At Frank D’Amico, Jr., we help property owners navigate storm damage and insurance disputes, investigate the extent of their losses, review their insurance coverage, and pursue the compensation they may be entitled to receive.
Common Causes of Storm Damage
- High Winds – Strong winds can damage roofs, siding, windows, doors, fences, and other structures.
- Hail Damage – Hail can damage roofing materials, vehicles, windows, siding, and other exterior property.
- Heavy Rain – Excessive rainfall can result in roof leaks, water intrusion, flooding, and damage to the interior of a property.
- Flooding – Storm-related flooding can damage foundations, flooring, walls, electrical systems, furniture, and personal belongings.
- Fallen Trees and Branches – Strong winds and saturated ground can cause trees or large branches to fall onto homes, vehicles, and other structures.
- Roof Damage – Storms can loosen, crack, or remove roofing materials, allowing water to enter a property.
- Lightning Damage – Lightning strikes can cause fires, electrical damage, and damage to appliances and other systems.
- Tornado Damage – Tornadoes can cause severe structural damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, and surrounding property.
- Water Intrusion – Damaged roofs, windows, doors, and other openings can allow stormwater to enter a building.
- Debris Damage – Objects carried by strong winds can strike and damage buildings, vehicles, and other property.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after my property is damaged by a storm?
Document the damage with photographs and video, report the damage to your insurance company as required by your policy, and take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage when it is safe to do so. Keep receipts for temporary repairs and other expenses related to the loss.
What if my insurance company denies my storm damage claim?
A denied claim does not necessarily mean you are not entitled to coverage. An attorney can review your insurance policy, the reason for the denial, and the evidence related to the damage to determine whether the insurance company properly handled your claim.
What if my insurance company says the damage was caused by something other than the storm?
Insurance companies may dispute the cause of property damage, particularly when a property has pre-existing conditions or when multiple causes may have contributed to the loss. Photographs, inspections, repair estimates, weather information, and other evidence may help establish the cause and extent of the damage.
What if the insurance company's estimate is too low?
You do not necessarily have to accept an insurance company’s estimate if it does not adequately reflect the cost of repairing or replacing your damaged property. An attorney can review the estimate, policy provisions, contractor estimates, and other evidence to help determine whether additional compensation may be available.
What types of storm damage may be covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on the specific terms, exclusions, and conditions of your insurance policy. Depending on the policy, covered losses may include certain damage caused by wind, hail, lightning, falling objects, or other covered storm-related events.
Can I make a claim for water damage after a storm?
Potentially. Coverage for water damage depends on how the water entered the property and the terms of your insurance policy. For example, damage caused by wind-driven rain or a storm-damaged roof may be treated differently from damage caused by flooding.
What compensation can I recover for storm damage?
Depending on your insurance coverage and the circumstances of your claim, you may be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacement of damaged property, personal belongings, additional living expenses, and other covered losses.
How long do I have to file a storm damage claim?
The applicable deadline depends on your insurance policy and the law governing your claim. Some policies may also require prompt notice of a loss. It is important to review your policy and seek legal advice as soon as possible after significant storm damage.
Do I need an attorney for a storm damage claim?
An attorney can be helpful when an insurance company denies, delays, or undervalues your claim or disputes the cause or extent of the damage. Frank D’Amico, Jr. can review your insurance coverage, investigate your losses, communicate with the insurance company, and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to receive.