Back-to-back storms are more than just rare weather events. They can be a nightmare for homeowners and property owners trying to navigate the complex hurricane insurance claims process. In recent history, we’ve seen storms like Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton hit Florida’s west coast within just two weeks of each other, compounding damage and confusion.
So, what happens when your property is damaged by multiple storms in a short period of time? Do you file one insurance claim or two? And how does your deductible come into play?
Our Managing Partner, Mordechai Breier, explains exactly what you need to do if your property is impacted by two hurricanes in quick succession:
Filing a Second Hurricane Claim: When Is It Necessary?
Let’s say you filed Hurricane Helene insurance claim after it caused wind damage to your roof. Then, before your claim is even resolved, Hurricane Milton sweeps through, adding new or different damage, perhaps flooding or additional structural issues. In this case, it’s very likely that you’ll need to open a second Hurricane Milton insurance claim.
But not always. There are policy-specific nuances that determine whether a second claim is necessary or if you can proceed with the first one alone. That’s why it’s critical to have experienced property claim attorneys review your policy and help you navigate the best course of action.
The Deductible Question
One of the most common concerns in multiple-storm situations is the deductible. Many policies have a “calendar-year hurricane deductible,” which means you might only have to pay one deductible per year, even if two hurricanes strike. But not every policy is structured this way. There are key subtleties in the policy language, and understanding those details can make a significant difference in your recovery and out-of-pocket expenses.
At Insurance Litigation Group (ILG), we dig into those policy details and advise you on how to move forward to maximize your compensation and minimize your stress. Our team of experienced property damage attorneys, loss assessors, and former adjusters is here to give you clarity when the situation is anything but clear. We assess whether a second claim is needed, determine the impact on your deductible, and guide you every step of the way.
If you’ve been impacted by multiple storms, whether it’s Helene, Milton, or any future hurricanes, don’t guess. Get expert legal advice so you don’t leave money on the table or risk denial due to a procedural mistake.
Need help with your hurricane damage claims? Call ILG at 888.454.4254 today!
