hurricane damage

Preparing for the 2024 Hurricane Season*

Hurricane Season Starts June 1st through November 30th!

The best time to prepare for a hurricane is before hurricane season begins!

Hurricane Kits

It is essential to create a kit of supplies that you could take in the event you are forced to evacuate however, this will also be useful if you are able to stay in your home. Preparing ahead will eliminate the widespread panic by waiting until the last minute. Some recommended items to include in your kit are:

  • Non-perishable food and water (enough to last at least 3 days)
  • Personal hygiene items and sanitation items
  • First-aid kit (include any prescription medication you may need)
  • A plan for evacuation and for if family members are separated.
  • Flashlights and a battery operated radio
  • Waterproof container with cash and important documents including insurance papers, phone numbers of family and friends as well as Horizon Public Adjusters.
  • Manual can opener
  • Special needs items: pet supplies and baby supplies if applicable
  • Cooler and ice packs
  • Lighter or matches.
  • Books, magazines, games for entertainment

Securing Your Home

  • Cover all of your windows, either with hurricane shutters or wood.
  • Although tape can prevent glass from shattering everywhere, be warned that tape does not prevent the window from breaking.
  •  If possible, secure straps or clips to securely fasten your roof to the structure of your home.
  • Make sure all trees and shrubs are trimmed and clear rain gutters.
  • Reinforce your garage doors.
  • Bring in all outdoor furniture, garbage cans, decorations, and anything else that is not tied down.
  • If winds become strong, stay away from windows and doors and close, secure and brace internal doors.

Power Outages

  •  Gas: Make sure your tank is full far in advance of an approaching storm. Most people wait until the last minute, rush to get extra gas for cars and generators, and subsequently gas stations can run out early.
  • ATMS: Have extra cash on hand in the event no ATMS in your area are accessible or working.
  • Cell Phones: Charge your cell phone and limit use after power is out.
  • A/C: This can be the most uncomfortable side effect of losing power during a storm. Try to prevent as much light from entering and warming the house by covering up your windows on the inside. If you have back-up or battery operated fans, don’t run them unless you are in the room. Fans create a difference in perceived temperature but do not cool the room; instead they create a cooling effect by dispersing the heat off your skin. It is said they can actually add heat to a room just by running.
  • Water: Fill bathtub and large containers with water for washing and flushing only.
  • Food: Turn your fridge temperature down and/or freeze any food or drinking water that can be frozen if you expect a power outage. Here is a guide on freezing food: Freezing and Food Safety. Have a cooler with ice packs prepared to cool your drinks and snacks after power has been out for more than 4 hours. And importantly, check out this food safety guide for when to discard your perishable food: http://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/charts/refridg_food.html

*Most of this information provided by https://www.stateofflorida.com/articles/hurricane-preparedness-guide/

 

marchbloginventory

How to Make a Home Inventory for Insurance Claims

Imagine that all your belongings are destroyed in a house fire or a major catastrophe like a hurricane. Fortunately, you have insurance. Now it is time to file a claim and get reimbursed, you have to make a list of everything you lost. How many of your belongings would you be able to remember? It is the homeowners responsibility to provide your insurance company with a list of items and their condition that was destroyed from water, wind, fire or even theft. Relying on your ability to remember every single piece can be a tragedy on top of tragedy during an emotional and difficult loss.

The time to do it is when you first take out your policy but if you already have your policy in place, it is a perfect time to start. Once it is completed and you obtain the approximate dollar amount, you will also be able to assess if you have enough coverage for your personal property or if you are over insured.

How to create a home inventory

Start by taking a video and pictures that can easily be done with your smart phone. Be sure to zoom in on high- value items and to open drawers. There are many home inventory apps available to upload your images and record details such as serial numbers. Receipts are also very important. As you put together your inventory, it is important to include details to maximize your settlement.

The List

Begin your list by documenting each room separately, ie, Living Room, Bedroom, etc, You can do this with a pen and paper but there are many great excel templates and resources available.

Once it is complete and checked, be sure to keep it safe and accessible in a storage platform such as iCloud, or Dropbox. Your list should be updated every year with the renewal of your policy or on June 1st which is the start of hurricane season. You will also want to update it with any major purchase or remodel.

Putting together a home inventory is an investment of time that seems daunting but ask anyone who has been through a major claim and they are sure to say that they wish they had done it beforehand.

 

 

rejecteclaim

Common Practices Insurance Companies use to Delay, Underpay or Deny your Claim!

* Delay the Claim Process
*Offer Low- Ball Settlements
*Deny Claims
*Tricking you to Admit Fault
*Policy Loopholes
*Requesting Unnecessary Documentation

WHAT CAN YOU DO?
HIRE A HORIZON PUBLIC ADJUSTERS!

The professional, licensed loss consultants at Horizon Public Adjusters will successfully represent you and your interest to maximize your recovery. After a property loss, we understand how difficult it can be to face the emotions of reality and to deal with the insurance company at that time. Today’s insurance companies have made it even more difficult to handle a claim on your own; often underestimating the loss or even denying coverage. Even the filing of an insurance claim can be daunting, and can result in compromising the value of your loss.

water damage

Start 2024 off with a Quick Check for Water Damage

Here are a few telltale sign of kitchen cabinet water damage

  •  Discoloration of kitchen cabinets
  •  Kitchen cabinet external laminate peeling off
  • Mold development on parts of your cabinet
  • The wood of the cabinet beginning to warp
  • Cabinet doors not closing or opening properly

Is this Water Damage?

Identifying water damage on the ceiling can be glaring but there are also other less obvious signs such as:

  •  Sagging, bowed ceilings
  • Musty smells
  • Mold growth
  • Peeling or flaking paint
  • Hairline cracks
  • Mold or mildew

roofpicdecblog

Have You Been Underpaid for Your Insurance Claim?

Here’s What to do now:

#1 Understand your rights as a policyholder.

#2 Keep a copy of all documents related to the claim, such as emails discussing payment amounts or other correspondence between yourself and your insurance company.

#3 The best thing you can do to ensure you are getting the full amount you’re owed is to hire a licensed public adjuster.

At Horizon Public Adjusters, we will review your policy, inspect your damages free of charge, and help you with every step of the claim process.
For more information on what to do when you’re underpaid for your insurance claim, contact us today. We will work tirelessly to ensure you get paid properly for your insurance claim.

3 Most Important Things to Do Immediately If You Experience Water Damage in Your Home

Take These Steps if You Have Water Damage in Your Home

The most important thing is to act fast. Here are the steps to take as soon as possible after a flood or any other type of plumbing or water issue.

#1 Stop Additional Damage

It is important to turn off your water supply and utilities as soon as you suspect that there has been a water-related accident. This will help prevent further damage to your property and belongings. Then contact a plumber (or the necessary professional, depending on the issue at hand) to assess the damage, help you clean up the mess, and prevent further damage.

#2 Call Horizon Public Adjusters

Once you’ve assessed the situation, it’s time to call a licensed public adjuster. The first thing they’ll likely do is  come out to inspect your property and determine the extent of your damages. If you aren’t familiar with the term “public adjuster,”  they are professionals who help property owners get the money they’re owed from their insurance company when there has been damage to their property. They are not affiliated with any insurance company, rather they are there to look out for your best interests and ensure you get a fair payout from your insurance company.

While a public adjuster will help you get the money you’re owed for your claim, they’re not required by law. If you’re not sure whether your particular situation warrants hiring a public adjuster, ask yourself these questions: Do I have time for this? Would I rather be spending my time doing other things than dealing with my insurance company? Do I even know what needs to be done next?

Based on your answers to these questions, hiring a public adjuster may be the best thing you can do so that you can ensure everything is getting done properly and that the entire insurance claim process will be as stress-free as possible for you.

#3 Document the Damage

It is vital to document all the damage that occurred in your home. Take photos and videos of all damage and keep all receipts and invoices of any work that was necessary by the plumber or other professionals needed to fix the source of the problem and stop further damage from occurring.
This is important because it will potentially help you get your insurance claim paid, not only quicker, but hopefully in full. If your insurance company does not know the full extent of the damage to your home, they might pay you less than you are owed, but if you have clear documentation of the loss through photos or videos, it will be extremely helpful with getting the full amount of your claim.

We are Here to Help

Water damage can be devastating and is often overwhelming for homeowners. But with a little preparation, you can minimize the damage, understand your rights and responsibilities as an insured homeowner, and get back on track quickly.

At Horizon Public Adjusters, we are here to help you get the full amount of your water damage claim or any other insurance claim. We will carefully review your claim and work tirelessly to expedite the claim process and help you get the full amount you are entitled to. Give us a call or visit our website today to get started with a free inspection.

 

roof damage

Understanding the Fine Print About Wear and Tear in Property Insurance Policies

When it comes to filing an insurance claim, policyholders often encounter the term “wear and tear.” While insurance policies are designed to protect against unexpected damage or losses, they typically exclude coverage for regular wear and tear.

This exclusion is crucial for insurance companies to maintain the balance between providing financial protection and preventing abuse of policies. Here is everything you need to know about what wear and tear and some examples of situations where it is not covered by insurance.

Defining Wear and Tear

Wear and tear refers to the gradual deterioration or damage that occurs over time due to normal use, aging, or exposure to elements. It is an expected outcome of regular usage and is considered a part of the natural life cycle of a property. Insurance policies are primarily intended to cover sudden and accidental damage rather than the natural wear and tear that occurs with the passage of time.

Examples of Wear and Tear Not Covered by Insurance

Here are just a few examples of types of wear and tear that are likely not covered under your property insurance policy.

Faded Paint

Over time, exposure to sunlight and weather conditions can cause paint to fade. While repainting may be necessary to maintain the aesthetics of your home, it is considered a maintenance cost and not covered by insurance.

Roof Maintenance

Roofs are subject to wear and tear, with the need for periodic repairs or replacement. Insurance typically excludes coverage for roof repairs resulting from age-related deterioration, such as cracked shingles or general wear caused by long-term exposure to the elements.

Gradual Plumbing Issues

Slow leaks, rusted pipes, or plumbing problems that develop over time due to aging are not usually covered. Insurance companies expect homeowners to regularly maintain their plumbing systems and address issues as they arise.

Deteriorating Building Structures

The gradual deterioration of a building’s structure, including cracks in walls, foundation issues, or rotting wood due to aging, falls under wear and tear. These are considered maintenance-related expenses and not covered by insurance.

Filing an Insurance Claim for Wear and Tear

Understanding the concept of wear and tear is crucial when filing insurance claims. While insurance policies aim to protect policyholders against unexpected damage, it is essential to recognize that regular wear and tear is a part of the natural life cycle of any property.

By familiarizing yourself with what constitutes wear and tear, you can better manage your expectations and take proactive steps to maintain your assets, preventing costly repairs and disappointments when insurance claims are not applicable.

Remember, insurance coverage is primarily designed for unforeseen events, not the expected wear and tear that comes with normal use and time.

Not sure if something qualifies as wear and tear? Contact Horizon Public Adjusters today for a free evaluation of your property.

hurricane flooding

Why Hiring a Public Adjuster is Crucial for Hurricane Damage Claims

Hurricanes are powerful natural disasters that can cause widespread devastation, leaving homes and businesses in ruins. Dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane can be an overwhelming and complex process, especially when it comes to insurance claims.

This is where a public adjuster can be your greatest ally. In this blog post, we will explore why hiring a public adjuster is crucial for hurricane damage claims and how they can help you navigate the often-challenging insurance process.

Expert Knowledge and Experience

One of the primary reasons to hire a public adjuster for hurricane damage claims is their expert knowledge and experience in dealing with insurance companies. Public adjusters are licensed professionals who specialize in assessing, documenting, and negotiating insurance claims on behalf of policyholders. They understand the intricacies of insurance policies and can accurately evaluate the extent of the damage caused by a hurricane.

Most public adjusters have handled numerous hurricane-related claims, giving them a deep understanding of the unique challenges and nuances associated with these types of claims. Their expertise allows them to navigate the complex insurance landscape and advocate for your best interests.

Accurate Assessment of Damages

After a hurricane, accurately assessing the damages to your property is crucial for filing a comprehensive insurance claim. Public adjusters have the skills and experience to thoroughly inspect and evaluate the extent of the damage caused by the hurricane. They understand the various factors that insurance companies consider when determining the value of a claim, such as structural damage, water intrusion, contents damage, and additional living expenses.

By engaging a public adjuster, you can ensure that all damages are properly documented and included in your claim, maximizing your chances of receiving fair compensation for your losses.

Efficient and Timely Claim Process

Dealing with an insurance claim after a hurricane can be a time-consuming process, requiring extensive paperwork, documentation, and communication with the insurance company. Public adjusters alleviate this burden by handling all aspects of the claim on your behalf. They know the specific requirements and deadlines set by insurance companies and can ensure that your claim is filed correctly and within the designated timeframe.

Public adjusters have established relationships with insurance companies and their adjusters, which can help expedite the claim process. Their expertise allows them to effectively negotiate with insurance companies, ensuring that you receive a prompt and fair settlement.

Maximizing Your Settlement

Insurance companies are businesses, and their primary goal is to minimize costs. Unfortunately, this can sometimes result in policyholders receiving inadequate settlements for their hurricane damage claims. Public adjusters work exclusively for the policyholder and are committed to maximizing your settlement.

By thoroughly assessing the damages, understanding the terms and conditions of your policy, and utilizing their negotiation skills, public adjusters can help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. They are familiar with the tactics insurance companies employ to undervalue claims and can counteract those strategies on your behalf.

Hiring a Public Adjuster for Your Hurricane Claim

Navigating the insurance claims process after a hurricane can be a daunting task. A public adjuster can provide invaluable support during this challenging time. With their expert knowledge, experience, and dedication to your best interests, public adjusters can accurately assess damages, streamline the claim process, and maximize your settlement. When it comes to hurricane damage claims, entrusting your case to a public adjuster is a crucial step toward securing fair compensation for your losses and rebuilding your life after the storm.

If you or someone you know has suffered from hurricane damage, don’t hesitate to reach out to Horizon Public Adjusters today. Take the necessary steps to protect your rights and ensure a fair settlement. By hiring a public adjuster, you can have peace of mind knowing that a qualified professional is fighting for your best interests and working to maximize your insurance claim.

Advantage of using a Public adjuster

The Advantages of Engaging a Public Adjuster for Large-Scale Commercial Claims

When it comes to large-scale commercial insurance claims, navigating the intricate process can be a daunting task. The stakes are high, and the complexity of the claims process can be overwhelming for business owners and executives.

That’s where a public adjuster comes in. In this blog post, we will explore the advantages of engaging a public adjuster for large-scale commercial claims and how we can help businesses maximize their insurance settlements while minimizing stress and ensuring a smoother claims process.

Expertise and Experience

Advantage of using a Public adjusterOne of the primary advantages of hiring a public adjuster for large-scale commercial claims is our expertise and experience in handling complex insurance claims. Public adjusters are licensed professionals who specialize in representing policyholders in the insurance claims process. We possess in-depth knowledge of insurance policies, coverage terms, and the intricacies of the claims process.

With our expertise, we can thoroughly review your insurance policy, assess the damage or loss, and accurately determine the value of your claim. We understand the tactics used by insurance companies to minimize payouts and can effectively negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair and just compensation.

Time-Saving and Stress Reduction

Large-scale commercial claims require significant time and effort to prepare and manage effectively. As a business owner or executive, your time and resources are better spent focusing on running and rebuilding your business. By engaging a public adjuster, you can offload the burden of dealing with the claims process and focus on what matters most—your business.

Public adjusters handle all aspects of the claim, from documenting and gathering evidence to negotiating with the insurance company. We are skilled in the art of claim preparation and can compile a comprehensive and persuasive claim package that maximizes your chances of a successful outcome. By allowing a public adjuster to handle your claim, you can reduce stress and ensure a smoother claims process.

Maximizing Insurance Settlements

Insurance companies are profit-driven entities and may attempt to settle claims for the lowest possible amount. Without proper representation, policyholders may accept settlements that do not fully compensate them for their losses. A public adjuster, on the other hand, works solely on your behalf and has a vested interest in maximizing your insurance settlement.

Public adjusters thoroughly analyze your policy, accurately estimate the value of your claim, and gather all necessary documentation and evidence to support your case. Armed with this information, we negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. By leveraging our expertise and negotiation skills, we can help you achieve a more favorable outcome and a higher insurance settlement.

Advocacy and Claims Assistance

Advantage of using a Public adjusterDealing with insurance companies can be a frustrating and intimidating process. Insurance policies are often filled with complex jargon, and understanding your rights and entitlements can be challenging. Public adjusters act as your advocate throughout the claims process, guiding you through each step and ensuring your rights are protected.

From the initial claim filing to the final settlement, public adjusters provide invaluable assistance. We handle all communications with the insurance company, including claim correspondence, meetings, and negotiations. This level of support ensures that your interests are prioritized and that you receive fair treatment and prompt attention from the insurance company.

Engaging a Public Adjuster

Engaging a public adjuster offers numerous advantages to businesses facing the complexities of the insurance claims process. Our expertise, experience, and dedication to advocating for policyholders makes us invaluable allies in ensuring you receive fair and just compensation for your claim.

By hiring Horizon Public Adjusters, we can help you can navigate the claims process more effectively, save time and stress, and ultimately maximize your insurance settlement. Don’t face your claim alone—call us today to secure your rightful compensation.

4 Common Misconceptions About Public Adjusters Debunked

4 Common Misconceptions About Public Adjusters Debunked

When it comes to navigating the complex world of insurance claims, many policyholders find themselves overwhelmed and confused. In these situations, hiring a public adjuster is always a smart move.

However, there are several misconceptions surrounding the role of public adjusters that often deter people from seeking their assistance.

Here are some of the most common misconceptions about public adjusters and the truth about the valuable services we provide.

#1 Public Adjusters are Unnecessary Middlemen

4 Common Misconceptions About Public Adjusters Debunked

One of the most prevalent misconceptions about public adjusters is that they are merely intermediaries who add an unnecessary layer of complexity to the insurance claim process.

However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Public adjusters are licensed professionals who work exclusively for policyholders, not insurance companies. Their primary goal is to advocate for the policyholder’s best interests, ensuring that they receive fair and accurate compensation for their losses.

#2 Public Adjusters Delay the Claims Process

Some people worry that involving a public adjuster will slow down the claims process and cause unnecessary delays.

On the contrary, public adjusters are well-versed in the intricate details of insurance policies and claims procedures. They have the knowledge and experience to navigate the paperwork efficiently, ensuring that the claim is properly documented and submitted promptly. By handling the intricacies of the process, public adjusters can expedite the claim settlement, helping policyholders receive their compensation in a timely manner.

#3 Public Adjusters are Only Useful for Large-Scale Disasters

Another misconception is that public adjusters are only beneficial for major catastrophes like hurricanes or wildfires.

While public adjusters certainly play a crucial role in such situations, their expertise extends beyond those scenarios. Public adjusters can assist policyholders wit

4 Common Misconceptions About Public Adjusters Debunked

h a wide range of claims, including property damage from water leaks, fire incidents, vandalism, and even minor accidents. Whether it’s a small-scale incident or a major disaster, public adjusters can help policyholders maximize their insurance coverage.

#4 Public Adjusters Charge Exorbitant Fees

There is a common belief that public adjusters charge high fees, making their services unaffordable for the average policyholder.

It’s important to note that most public adjusters work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if the policyholder receives a settlement. Additionally, the value they bring by maximizing your compensation often outweighs the cost of their services.

How a Public Adjuster Can Help You

Public adjusters play a vital role in ensuring policyholders receive fair and adequate compensation for their insurance claims. By debunking these common misconceptions, we hope to shed light on the valuable services public adjusters provide. Whether it’s debunking complex policy jargon, expediting the claims process, or maximizing the settlement amount, public adjusters are dedicated advocates for policyholders.

When dealing with an insurance claim of any size or type, call Horizon Public Adjusters to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.