What You Need to Know About Filing a Late Catastrophe Claim

Natural disasters can happen anytime and getting your property back to its pre-loss condition can be a daunting task. If you are an insured property owner and missed filing the damage claim within the stipulated time frame after a catastrophe, you might be in a fix. However, this doesn't mean you can't still receive compensation for the loss. In this blog post, we'll discuss what you need to know about filing a late catastrophe claim and how you can go about it.

1. Read Your Insurance Policy

Generally, there is a specific time frame within which you are required to file an insurance claim after a catastrophe. This deadline varies from one policy to another and is usually referred to as the "notice period." When filing a late catastrophe claim, read through your insurance policy to determine what your insurer considers as a late claim. Identify the notice period deadline, and if you are within the timeframe, you may still be able to submit your claim. Alternatively, you may need to negotiate with your insurance company about the submission of a late claim.

2. Explain Your Reason for the Late Claim

Life is unpredictable, and sometimes unforeseeable circumstances can interfere with the claims process. If you missed the notice period deadline, explain why you were unable to submit your claim within the stipulated time frame. Common reasons include severe illness, injuries, hospitalization, and even the inability to access your home or business premises following the catastrophe.

3. Provide Accurate Documentation

When submitting a late catastrophe claim, having documentation is essential. Accurately document the catastrophe's damage and all expenses incurred as a result. This documentation should include photographs, video footage, receipts, invoices, and any other relevant paperwork. Your insurance company will need to review your claim, so ensure you have all the necessary documents to support your claim, making it easier for the insurance company to assess your case.

4. Hire the Services of a Public Adjuster

Public adjusters are experts in insurance loss claims and can help you navigate the complex claims process to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. When faced with the possibility of submitting a late catastrophe claim, consider engaging the services of a public adjuster to guide you through the process. They will assess the damage, negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, and ensure that you are fairly compensated for your loss.

5. Don't Give Up - Appeal

If your insurance claim has been denied due to a missed notice period deadline, don't give up just yet. Some states have laws that allow policyholders to appeal rejected claims. In such cases, you will need to present your case before a panel or court to determine if your claim was wrongly denied. When the odds are against you, seek the help of a legal expert that specializes in insurance claims cases. They will represent you and argue your case before the court, increasing your chances of receiving the compensation that you're entitled to.

Conclusion

Missing the notice period deadline for filing an insurance loss claim can be stressful, but it doesn't mean that all hope is lost. By reading your insurance policy, explaining your reasons for a late claim, providing accurate documentation, hiring a public adjuster, and appealing rejected claims, you can still receive the compensation that you deserve. If you're looking for an insurance loss adjuster in Orlando, contact Ultra Property Damage today for a free consultation and learn how our team of experts can help you file a late catastrophe claim.