Tropical Storm Debby Damage Claims

Once Tropical Storm Debby finally roars out of Florida, residents and businesses throughout the state will begin the slow and tedious work of recovery. Many will have to file claims with their insurance companies for their wind damage and other personal and business losses. Unfortunately, experience has shown that insurance companies don’t always deal fairly with Florida hurricane and tropical storm victims.

Debbie cut a wide swath of destruction throughout the state, especially in the following counties:

• Bay County,
• Calhoun County,
• Charlotte County,
• Citrus County,
• Dixie County,
• Franklin County,
• Gulf County,
• Hernando County,

• Highland County,
• Hillsborough County,
• Jefferson County,
• Liberty County,
• Levy County,
• Manatee County,
• Okaloosa County,
• Pasco County,

• Pinellas County,
• Sarasota County,
• Suwannee County,
• Taylor County,
• Wakulla County, and
• Walton County.

The term “tropical storm” hardly does justice to the damage Tropical Storm Debby left in its wake. Massive flooding from upwards of two feet of rain caused the evacuation of tens of thousands of people living in low-lying areas and near rivers, creeks and streams. Tornadoes and wind damaged and destroyed homes, and in one case, took the life of one young mother. Power outages from the storm could take weeks to resolve, and business losses could be staggering.

Thousands of Florida residents and businesses will soon be filing all manner of claims with their insurance companies, and in some cases, multiple claims. Generally speaking, claims following a hurricane or tropical storm are related to:

• Storm surge
• Wind damage
• Water penetration
• Roof damage
• Business interruption

The extent of the damage caused by the flooding and sinkholes from Tropical Storm Debby is still unfolding. In many cases, buildings will have to be knocked down and rebuilt. Not only can this be costly, the business interruption can be devastating for small business owners. View more pictures of damage from Tropical Storm Debby.

Insurance Coverage for Tropical Storm Damage

Most homeowners and businesses in Florida purchase insurance policies that cover hurricane and storm damage, and they expect their insurer will take care of them when they are in need. But insurers may deny your claim by stating that the damage was pre-existing, caused by flood not covered under the policy, the result of neglect of the property or a failure to mitigate, or that the damage was not reported immediately. When your claim is adjusted, you may find that your insurer has failed to accurately assess the severity of the actual damage and its associated costs for repair and restoration, providing you with only a portion of the coverage you need.

If your residence or business has suffered damage from Tropical Storm Debbie, it is best to have an attorney representing your interest. An experienced law firm will work with adjusters, roofers, contractors, structural engineers, and accountants to properly document and expedite your Tropical Storm Debbie claim. Your attorney can also ensure that you are treated fairly and promptly by your insurance carrier.

Legal Help for Property Damage from Tropical Storm Debby

Gilman Law LLP is a Florida law firm with more than 40 years of experience protecting the rights of consumers and businesses against insurance companies and other large corporations. Because our attorneys have lived and worked in Florida for decades, they understand what it takes to recover from a tropical storm like Debby. Our firm is ready right now to assist any individual or business seeking help with an insurance claim from Tropical Storm Debby.