Florida Hurricane Season: Prepare, Document and Find Claim Help

Before a storm: prepare the records you will need

Keep your policy, endorsements, claims-reporting contacts and a room-by-room inventory somewhere you can reach after an evacuation. Record major belongings with photos, purchase information and serial numbers. Save copies separately from the property.

Review deductibles and which policy addresses wind or flood with your insurance agent before a storm threatens. Do not assume a homeowners policy covers rising floodwater. Use Florida DFS preparation guidance and FEMA’s inventory checklist, then follow the home preparation guide.

After a storm: safety, notice and a clear record

Follow local emergency instructions and stay away from damaged roofs, floodwater and unsafe structures. When it is safe, record what you observed and when. Report damage promptly to the insurer using its instructions; do not wait for every photograph or a consultation to give required notice.

Use qualified help for protective repairs and retain receipts. Document before and after temporary work when safe. DFS explains protecting your property after a disaster. Read what to do after a storm and how to organize damage evidence.

Match the damage to the right claim guidance

• Hurricane and wind: roof, exterior and rain-entry questions related to a reported storm.
• Roof damage: the condition, repair scope and damage beneath the roof.
• Water damage: where water came from, when it appeared and which policy may apply.
• Mold damage: moisture source, documentation and policy limits.
• Fire and smoke damage: separate fire-related loss and restoration documentation.

Several causes may affect one property. Record observations separately instead of labeling every loss as hurricane damage. For ground-movement concerns outside this storm pathway, see sinkhole claim guidance; that page does not establish that a hurricane caused the condition.

If you have already filed, choose your next question

• How long does a Florida claim take? Understand insurer response and decision clocks.
• My roof claim was denied. What now? Organize the decision and roof evidence.
• How much does a public adjuster cost? Review fee caps and written terms.
• Public adjuster, attorney or appraisal? Match the help to the disagreement.
• What are my notice requirements? Keep reporting and legal deadlines distinct.

For a denied or incomplete payment on another type of loss, visit denied and underpaid claim guidance. Free DFS consumer assistance and eligible mediation are also available.

Choose the Care Claims entry point that fits

• Recent property damage: start with the location, what happened and your immediate claim question.
• Denied or underpaid claim: bring the insurer’s letter or estimate if you have it.
• Policy questions before a loss: organize what you want to understand about your existing policy.

The initial review is free. We review and reply within one business day. Contacting us does not create representation; any services and fees require a written agreement. Care Claims does not provide emergency response or guarantee coverage.

Can I ask for help before I have every document?

Yes. Begin with what happened, the property location and the documents you have. Identify missing records without guessing. Continue following insurer notice requirements and safety instructions while your inquiry is reviewed.

Does hurricane damage automatically mean the 10% fee cap applies?

The rule depends on a Governor-declared emergency and claims made during the year after its declaration; it is not simply a label for every storm. Other fee restrictions can apply. Check the Florida fee guide and statute before signing.