Skilled Attorneys For Wind And Storm Damage Claims
When a powerful storm strikes your home, the disruption does not end when the weather clears. You still have to protect the property, arrange repairs and begin the insurance process, often before you understand the full scope of the loss.
When the carrier delays, denies or undervalues the claim, our attorneys at Buscemi Hallett LLP draw on more than 50 years of combined legal experience to determine what the policy requires and pursue the benefits available under its terms.
Types Of Covered Wind And Storm Damage
California homeowners policies typically cover damage caused by windstorms, subject to the terms and exclusions. Common covered losses include:
- Roof damage: Missing shingles, loosened flashing and compromised roof decking leave the home exposed to further loss during later rainfall.
- Broken windows and doors: Shattered glass and damaged frames allow rain and debris to enter the interior.
- Siding and exterior damage: Torn siding and cracked stucco expose the materials underneath to moisture.
- Water intrusion: Wind-driven rain that enters through a storm-created opening reaches walls, ceilings and floors.
- Fallen trees and debris: A fallen tree or windborne object often damages roofing, walls or attached structures.
- Fence and outdoor structures: Damage to fences, sheds and patio covers belongs in the assessment.
- HVAC and rooftop equipment: Displaced units and damaged connections sometimes affect how the system operates.
Some of the most serious effects remain out of view beneath roofing or behind walls, then appear weeks later as leaks, stains or mold. Photographs taken soon after the storm, repair records and a professional inspection help preserve evidence of when and how the loss occurred.
Common Insurance Company Tactics
Insurance companies sometimes dispute what caused the damage or how much the necessary repairs should cost. Common claim-handling tactics include:
- Outright claim denials
- Lowball settlement offers
- Delayed processing
- Blaming poor maintenance
- Misclassifying wind as flood
- Policy language manipulation
California regulations require insurers to investigate claims thoroughly, fairly and objectively. They also bar offers that unfairly lowball a loss. So, when your policy calls for payment, a denial or delay with no reasonable basis may support a bad faith claim.
Clarify Your Options After A Storm Damage Dispute
If you own property in Southern California, our attorneys help you understand where your claim stands and what steps remain available. Call 619-821-9163 or contact us online to schedule a free initial strategy consultation.