what to do if a hurricane causes water damage and need a lawyer

by Sunny Donnelly 10 min read

What to do if you have water damage to your property?

Aug 31, 2021 · If you have sustained damages from Hurricane Ida, contact our hurricane attorneys today for a consultation regarding your claim by calling us at (844) 252-4684 or click here to fill out our quick contact form. Insurance Claim HQ 3540 S I-10 Service Rd W Suite 300, Metairie, LA 70001 (844) 252-4684

Can I make a water damage claim for damages from a neighbor?

To ensure a reasonable and fair settlement is possible, the policyholder usually requires the services of a lawyer for communication and assistance. Lower offers or denials of valid claims may increase the need to hire a lawyer early on and pursue the just compensation the property owner should receive after a hurricane. Provided by HG.org

Do I need a lawyer if I have a water damage problem?

Apr 29, 2021 · If a neighbor’s negligence causes water damage to a person’s property, the person can sue the neighbor for property water damage. The person could recover money damages for the following items: The cost of repairs or replacement of damaged property; Loss of use, i.e., the cost of staying in a hotel until the person’s property is repaired;

What should I do if my neighbor’s house flooded?

The Houghtaling Law Firm, LLC is a hurricane lawyer in the state of Louisiana that may be able to assist you with your insurance claim if it has been denied, delayed, or if the settlement amount insurance adjusters are offering you is lower than the value of your damages (in some circumstances). Insurance companies have an obligation to honor your policy.

What is water damage?

Water Damage to Property. Heavy rain, flooding and other events can do serious damage to a person’s home; the cost to repair the damage can run to the thousands of dollars. The law may offer protection against some types of water damage depending on the source of the damage and whether a homeowner has homeowners’ insurance. ...

What are natural disasters?

A natural disaster may include: Earthquakes; Floods; Thunderstorms; Tornadoes; Hurricanes.

Does homeowner's insurance cover water leaks?

from a water heater, or slightly cracked pipe or leaking hose connected to an appliance, is not covered by homeowner’s insurance. So, even if a person’s homeowner’s policy covers water damage, it does not cover damage caused by slow, gradual leaking. Rather an insurance policy covers damage caused by ...

What happens if a neighbor is careless?

If a neighbor’s careless act results in the artificial diversion of water to a person’s property, the person may recover damages from the neighbor for the resulting harm. In general, again, a neighbor will not be responsible for damage to a person’s property caused by runoff from naturally occurring land and drainage conditions.

Can a neighbor be liable for water damage?

However, a neighbor can be liable if the neighbor’s negligence caused damage. If the neighbor’s negligence results in an event that directs water to a person’s property causing damage, the person can make a water damage claim for damages.

Can I sue my neighbor for water damage?

A water damage lawsuit against a neighbor would not be helpful for damage caused by these natural disasters. A property owner can get natural disaster insurance to cover damages caused by these “acts of god,” such as floods and earthquakes. Natural disaster insurance can cover: Mold damage; Walls and insulation;

Is water damage covered by insurance?

There are several types of water damage that may or may not be covered by a person’s insurance, such as: Sudden or accidental discharge from pipes or hoses in the home; Sewer backup and overflow or water backup; Overflow or leaking from a home appliance, e.g. malfunctioning washing machine or dishwasher;

1. Protect yourself

Always be careful when entering a damaged building. If there is serious structural damage, contact local officials before entering. Report downed power lines or gas leaks. Keep electricity turned off if the building has been flooded.

2. Clean up safely

When starting the cleanup process, be careful, and use protective eyewear and gloves if available.

3. Protect your property

Shingles can be easily damaged in hurricane winds. This can lead to water getting into your home. Be sure to check your attic for evidence of water or standing water.

4. Report losses as soon as possible

Contact your insurance agent or insurer as soon as you can. Provide a general description of the damage and have your policy number handy if possible. Write down the adjuster’s name, phone number and work schedule as soon as you have them.

5. Document damage

Document or keep damaged items. Be sure to enable geotagging (turn on location services) when taking photographs or video, which may help ease your claims process because it verifies the location of your items.

6. Keep receipts

If you need to relocate, keep records and receipts for all additional expenses. Most insurance policies cover emergency living arrangements.

7. Return claim forms

After your insurance company has been notified of your claim, they must send you the necessary claim forms within a certain number of days (time period varies by state). Fill out and return the forms as soon as possible. If you do not understand the process, be sure to ask questions and write down the explanation.

How to deal with water damage in a house?

It’s never easy to deal with residential water damage. It seems even harder when you have to address liability issues. Keep the lines of communication open between on-site management, your HOA and the neighbor upstairs. Stay in close touch with your insurance agent too.

What is the Illinois Condominium Property Act?

The Illinois Condominium Property Act spells out specifics that apply to HOAs and condo owners.

Is water damage covered by insurance?

In most cases, accidental water damage from the unit above yours is covered by your homeowners insurance on your condo and belongings. If it’s possible to prove the damage was preventable, your insurance company may pursue further action with the neighbor’s insurance carrier.