Florida's storm season often brings hurricanes, heavy rains, and wind damage that can leave homeowners with costly repairs. After storms like Hurricanes Milton and Helene in 2024, thousands of Florida residents scrambled to file insurance claims. But many homeowners wonder, "How long do I have to file a claim after a storm?"
The answer depends on Florida's legal requirements and the specific details of your insurance policy. This article will explain Florida's storm claim deadlines, state-of-emergency rules, and steps to ensure you file your claim on time.
Florida’s Time Limits for Filing a Storm Claim
In Florida, the time you have to file an insurance claim after a storm is dictated by state law. As of 2021, Florida Statute 627.70132 sets the following limits:
Initial Insurance Claims:You must file your claim within 2 years from the date of the storm.
Supplemental Claims:For additional damages discovered later, you have up to 3 years from the date of the storm to file a supplemental claim.
These deadlines apply to most storm-related claims, including damage caused by hurricanes, tropical storms, and windstorms.
Important Note:
If a state of emergency is declared, as it often is during hurricanes in Florida, your claim must still adhere to these time limits. Hurricanes Milton and Helene both triggered states of emergency, meaning homeowners had 2 years to submit initial claims and 3 years for supplemental claims.
Source: You can read more about Florida’s insurance deadlines here: Florida Statute 627.70132.
Why Are There Time Limits on Filing Storm Claims?
Insurance companies enforce deadlines for storm claims to ensure timely processing and proper evaluation of damages. Filing sooner rather than later helps you:
Avoid disputes about whether damages were storm-related.
Ensure repairs are covered before additional damage occurs.
Comply with Florida’s legal deadlines, so you don’t lose your right to file.
Steps to File a Storm Claim in Florida
If your home was damaged in a storm like Hurricanes Milton or Helene, follow these steps to ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time:
1. Document the Damage Immediately
Take photos and videos of all affected areas, including the roof, windows, and interior damage. This evidence will be crucial when filing your claim.
2. Review Your Insurance Policy
Understand your policy’s coverage, deductibles, and exclusions. Most policies cover wind, rain, and hurricane damage, but wear and tear or neglect are typically excluded.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurer of the damage as soon as possible. Even if you’re still assessing the full extent of the damage, initiating the claim early ensures you meet Florida’s deadlines.
4. Hire a Public Adjuster
Navigating the claims process can be challenging, especially after a hurricane when insurance companies are handling a surge of claims. A public adjuster can:
Assess your damage thoroughly.
Handle communication with your insurance company.
Maximize your payout and ensure you meet all deadlines.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you fail to file your storm claim within the 2-year window in Florida, your insurance company is legally allowed to deny the claim—even if the damage is clearly related to the storm. Missing the deadline for supplemental claims means you won’t be reimbursed for additional damages discovered later.
To avoid this, it’s crucial to:
File your initial claim as soon as possible.
Stay vigilant for hidden damages (e.g., mold, structural issues) and file supplemental claims promptly.
How Does a State of Emergency Affect Filing Deadlines?
When a state of emergency is declared in Florida, as it was for Hurricanes Milton and Helene, some aspects of the claims process may change, but the 2-year and 3-year deadlines remain in effect.
The state of emergency can provide additional resources for homeowners, such as disaster recovery centers and guidance from agencies like FEMA. However, it’s important to remember that insurance companies won’t extend filing deadlines simply because of an emergency declaration.
Tip: Don’t wait for the storm recovery process to wind down—file your claim as soon as possible to avoid missing critical deadlines.
Why Hire a Public Adjuster for Storm Claims?
Florida homeowners filing claims after major storms often face hurdles like delayed responses, underpaid settlements, or denied claims. This is where a public adjuster can make all the difference.
Benefits of Hiring a Public Adjuster:
Expert Evaluation: Public adjusters provide a thorough assessment of your property to ensure no damages are overlooked.
Maximized Payout: They negotiate with your insurance company to get you the full compensation you’re entitled to.
Time Savings: Handling claims can be overwhelming—especially after a storm. A public adjuster manages the process so you can focus on rebuilding.
At Base Claims Public Adjusters, we specialize in hurricane-related claims, offering:
A 5-star Google rating for trusted service.
An A+ BBB rating for reliability.
A 10% fee for state-of-emergency claims, making us an affordable option for Florida homeowners.
FAQs About Storm Claim Filing
1. How long do I have to file a claim after a hurricane in Florida? You have 2 years to file an initial claim and 3 years to file a supplemental claim for hurricane-related damages.
2. Can I file a claim after the deadline? No, Florida law prohibits claims filed after the legal deadline. Contact a public adjuster to ensure you file on time.
3. Does a state of emergency change the filing deadline? No, the 2-year and 3-year deadlines remain in effect, even during a state of emergency.
4. What should I do if my claim is denied? You can appeal the decision, reopen the claim, or file a supplemental claim if new damages are found. Hiring a public adjuster can help strengthen your case.
Final Thoughts
Filing a storm damage claim in Florida requires quick action to meet strict deadlines. Whether you’re dealing with roof damage from hurricanes like Milton or Helene or filing a supplemental claim for hidden issues, understanding Florida’s time limits is crucial.
Don’t let the process overwhelm you—hire a trusted public adjuster to guide you every step of the way. Base Claims Public Adjusters can help you file your claim on time, maximize your payout, and rebuild with peace of mind.
Need help with a storm insurance claim? Contact Base Claims Public Adjusters today for a free consultation and get back on track with your repairs.
Don’t let your insurance company shortchange you. Contact Base Claims today for a free consultation and virtual damage evaluation. We’re here to help you navigate the process and fight back the right way.
Remember, when it comes to storm-related claims, the right public adjuster with a 5-star rating on Google and an A+ BBB rating like Base Claims can make all the difference!
Let's connect and see how we can help you navigate your claims effectively. Contact us today for a consultation regarding your New, Denied, or Underpaid Claim and maximize your compensation.
Benjamin Licht 954-589-8710
Office 954-466-5730
Don’t wait until it’s too late.
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