Tampa Property Damage Attorney
Residential and commercial properties can become damaged in a number of different ways. As a property owner, you may feel some reassurance that you have insurance and that your provider will offer the compensation you need to repair the damage. Unfortunately, insurance companies prioritize their own profits over your rights. They may offer a settlement that is not enough to cover the damage, or they may deny your claim outright. In these instances, you need legal help. Our Tampa property damage attorney can provide it and help you obtain the most favorable outcome.
Common Types of Damage to a Property
Properties become damaged in a number of ways, but there are some types of damage that are more common than others. These include:
- Storm damage: Tampa is home to many hurricanes, thunderstorms, and high winds. Storms are often unpredictable and you may not be able to anticipate the amount of damage that will ensue. Storm damage can be catastrophic for a home or business owner and result in the total loss of the property.
- Water damage: The most common type of property damage claim in Tampa, and throughout Florida, involves water damage. Insurance may or may not cover water damage depending on negligence, maintenance, the type of damage, normal wear, and the water source.
- Fire and lightning: Of all the different destructive occurrences a property can experience, fire and lightning are the most devastating. Florida also holds the top spot for lightning-related insurance claims, followed by California and Texas.
- Theft: Property damage caused by theft can be significant. In most cases, valuable possessions such as jewelry and electronics are typically targeted. However, other possessions that are harder to determine a value for, such as family heirlooms, are also a target of theft.
Steps to Take After Property Damage
After suffering significant property damage, you may not know the next steps to take. In Tampa, there are two important steps to take and they are as follows:
- Mitigate the damage: In Florida, you must try to mitigate the damage caused, which means making sure the damage does not become worse. This may involve laying tarps, draining flooded areas, or boarding up windows. If you fail to mitigate the damage, it could result in a reduction or denial of damages.
- Contact your insurer: Your insurance policy likely requires you to notify your insurance company about any damage to your property. If you fail to do this, it could result in a cancellation of your policy. Before speaking to your insurer, speak to an attorney who can contact the insurer on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected.
Our Property Damage Attorney in Tampa Can Negotiate a Fair Settlement
If your property has been damaged, do not try to file a claim on your own. At BBDG Law, our Tampa property damage attorney can negotiate with the insurer on your behalf and make sure your rights are upheld so you obtain the full and fair settlement you deserve. Call us today at (813) 221-3759 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.