Hurricanes Milton and Helene caused catastrophic damage during the 2024 hurricane season, leaving countless homes in need of major repairs. Yet, many homeowners are finding their initial insurance payouts far too small to cover the cost of rebuilding. If you’re in the same boat, you’re not alone—and there’s a solution: filing a supplemental insurance claim.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about filing a supplemental claim, especially in Florida, and explain how a public adjuster can help you secure the money you need to get your home back to normal.
What is a Supplemental Insurance Claim?
A supplemental insurance claim is essentially a follow-up to your original claim. It’s filed when:
The initial insurance payout isn’t enough to cover the full cost of repairs.
New damages are discovered after the initial claim has been settled.
In other words, even if your insurance company has already issued a check and “closed” the claim, you can reopen it by filing a supplemental claim. Many homeowners impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene are turning to this option to address overlooked damages or underestimated repair costs.
Sound familiar? Unfortunately, this isn’t unusual after major hurricanes. With a large number of claims pouring in, some insurance companies prioritize their bottom line over your recovery.
To make matters worse, rumors circulated that FEMA lacked sufficient funds to assist those impacted by Helene. However, FEMA has debunked this misinformation here > FEMA Hurricane Helene. Still, these unfounded rumors might have discouraged some homeowners from seeking proper support.
Why Are So Many Homeowners Filing Supplemental Claims?
It’s no secret that insurance companies are notorious for underpaying claims. After Hurricanes Milton and Helene, thousands of policyholders in Florida are facing this harsh reality. Here’s why:
Insufficient payouts: Many initial claims only cover a portion of the damage, leaving homeowners to foot the rest of the bill.
Overwhelmed insurance companies: With so many claims filed after the storms, some companies are rushing assessments and undervaluing damages.
Complex policies: Insurance jargon and policy exclusions often result in homeowners missing out on the full coverage they’re entitled to.
If you feel like your payout wasn’t enough, it’s time to take action.
Steps to File a Supplemental Insurance Claim
Filing a supplemental claim may sound daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Follow these steps to ensure your claim is handled effectively:
1. Review Your Insurance Policy
Start by revisiting your policy to understand what’s covered and what isn’t. This will help you determine whether you have grounds for a supplemental claim.
2. Document the Damage
Take detailed photos and videos of any damages that weren’t addressed in the initial claim. Be sure to include:
Areas missed by the original adjuster.
New damages discovered after repairs began.
Repairs that cost more than anticipated.
3. Obtain Repair Estimates
Get updated estimates from contractors or specialists to demonstrate the true cost of the necessary repairs. This is crucial for proving that your initial payout was insufficient.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurer that you’d like to file a supplemental claim. Be prepared to provide documentation and explain why additional funds are needed.
5. Hire a Public Adjuster
This step can make all the difference. A public adjuster is a licensed professional who works on your behalf to maximize your insurance payout.
Why Hire a Public Adjuster for a Supplemental Claim?
Let’s face it: dealing with insurance companies is stressful. They’re often slow to respond, difficult to negotiate with, and quick to deny additional payouts. That’s where a public adjuster steps in.
Here’s how they can help:
Expertise: Public adjusters understand the fine print of insurance policies and know how to identify coverage you might not realize you have.
Documentation: They’ll thoroughly document all damages, ensuring nothing is missed.
Negotiation: They handle the back-and-forth with your insurer, saving you time and frustration.
Faster Results: Public adjusters can expedite the claims process, which is especially helpful after hurricanes, when insurers are overwhelmed.
At Base Claims, our public adjusters are a trusted choice for homeowners in Florida. With a 5-star rating on Google and an A+ BBB rating, we’ve helped countless clients secure the compensation they deserve. Plus, during a state of emergency, we only charge a 10% fee—a far better deal than hiring a lawyer.
Can I Reopen a Claim After Accepting an Initial Payout?
Absolutely! Many homeowners think that once they’ve accepted a payout, their claim is closed for good. This simply isn’t true.
You can reopen your claim if:
New damages are discovered.
You believe the initial payout was insufficient.
Don’t take “this claim is already settled” as the final word. You have the right to challenge an underpaid claim, and a public adjuster can help you do it effectively
Filing a Supplemental Claim in Florida
If you live in Florida, the process for filing a supplemental insurance claim is similar to what we’ve outlined above, but there are a few key points to keep in mind:
Strict deadlines: Florida law typically requires supplemental claims to be filed within a certain timeframe (usually 3 years from the date of the loss). Don’t wait too long to take action.
Hurricane-specific coverage: Florida policies often include special clauses for hurricane damages. Review these carefully to maximize your claim.
State regulations: Florida has strict regulations to protect homeowners from bad-faith insurance practices. If your insurer is dragging their feet, consider filing a complaint with the Florida Department of Financial Services.
Tips to Maximize Your Supplemental Claim
Act quickly: The sooner you file, the better your chances of securing additional funds.
Stay organized: Keep all documents, receipts, and correspondence related to your claim.
Leverage expertise: Hiring a reputable public adjuster like Base Claims ensures you’ll have an advocate fighting for your best interests.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a supplemental insurance claim? A supplemental claim is a follow-up to your original insurance claim, filed when the initial payout isn’t enough to cover the full cost of repairs or new damages are discovered.
2. Can I file a supplemental claim after a hurricane? Yes, you can file a supplemental claim for hurricane damages, even if your original claim has been closed.
3. How much does a public adjuster charge? During a state of emergency, public adjusters like Base Claims only charge a 10% fee for their services, making them an affordable alternative to hiring a lawyer.
4. What happens if my supplemental claim is denied? If your claim is denied, a public adjuster can help you appeal the decision. You can also file a complaint with your state’s insurance department.
Final Thoughts
If your initial insurance payout isn’t enough to cover hurricane damages, filing a supplemental claim is the best way to secure the funds you need. With the help of a knowledgeable public adjuster, the process becomes much easier—and far more likely to succeed.
At Base Claims, we’re dedicated to helping homeowners in Florida rebuild after disasters like Hurricanes Milton and Helene. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
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 hurricane 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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