The short answer
Document Everything First
Before you move anything or start cleaning, take photos and videos of every damaged area. Capture the water line on walls, soaked carpets, wet insulation, and any personal belongings that got wet. This visual record helps your insurer understand the scope of the loss.
Also write down a detailed list of damaged items, including approximate age and purchase price if you know it. Keep this list with your photos in a safe place. If you live in Daytona Beach, where hurricanes are a seasonal reality, having a digital backup of these records can save you headaches later.
Prevent Further Damage
Your policy likely requires you to take reasonable steps to protect your property after a loss. That means covering broken windows with plywood, tarping a damaged roof, and turning off the water if pipes are broken. These actions can also reduce the total damage and make the repair process simpler.
Save every receipt for materials you buy for temporary fixes. Your insurer may reimburse you for these costs, but only if you can prove what you spent. Do not throw away damaged items until your adjuster has seen them or given you permission to dispose of them.
- Take photos and videos of all damaged areas before cleanup
- List every damaged item with age and estimated value
- Cover broken windows and tarp holes in the roof
- Shut off water and electricity if it is safe to do so
- Keep all receipts for temporary repair materials
- Do not discard damaged belongings until your insurer approves
Contact Your Insurer Soon
Call your insurance company as soon as you can after securing your home. Have your policy number and the documentation you gathered ready. Ask what forms you need to submit and how long you have to file. The sooner you start, the sooner the process can move forward.
Be honest about what happened and what you see. Do not exaggerate damage or claim items that were not affected. Your insurer will send an adjuster to inspect the property, and the adjuster's report forms the basis for your settlement. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Understand Your Policy Limits
Read your policy carefully to know what is covered and what is not. Standard homeowners policies often exclude flood damage, which is separate. Hurricane wind damage may be covered, but floodwater from storm surge usually is not. Knowing these details helps you set realistic expectations.
If you have questions about your coverage, ask your insurer directly. Do not assume anything. Some policies have deductibles that are a percentage of your home's value, which can be significant after a hurricane. Your policy documents will list these numbers clearly.
- Check whether your policy covers wind, flood, or both
- Look for a separate hurricane deductible percentage
- Review coverage limits for your home and personal property
- Ask about additional living expenses if you cannot stay home
- Note any deadlines for filing a claim or submitting paperwork
Work with the Pros
After a hurricane, water damage can hide inside walls, under floors, and in attics. A professional water damage inspection can identify moisture that is not visible to the eye. Local water damage pros use moisture meters and thermal cameras to find hidden pockets of water.
If you need help with the insurance claim process, some restoration services can help you document damage and communicate with your insurer. Remember that the final decision on coverage rests with your insurance company. Choose a pro you trust and ask questions before signing anything.
Talk to someone now
Phones are answered 24/7 for Daytona Beach and nearby communities.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
Should I wait for the adjuster before cleaning up?
You can start temporary cleanup, like moving furniture and covering holes, but do not throw away damaged items or start major repairs. Take photos first and keep samples of wet carpet or drywall if possible. Your adjuster needs to see the damage to assess your claim.
What if my insurance claim is denied?
If your claim is denied, ask your insurer for a written explanation. Review your policy to see if the denial is correct. You can appeal the decision or file a complaint with your state's insurance department. Acting quickly matters because there are often deadlines for appeals.
How long do I have to file a hurricane claim?
Most policies require you to file a claim within a year of the loss, but some have shorter windows. Check your policy documents for the exact deadline. It is wise to file as soon as possible, because waiting can make documentation harder and may complicate your claim.