A Quick Guide to Filing a Property Claim in Homestead, Florida

Living in Homestead, Florida means facing the annual threat of tropical storms, flooding, and hurricane-force winds. If your home or business has been damaged, filing a property insurance claim should be a straightforward process—but for many, it becomes a stressful battle of delays, denials, and paperwork.

This guide is built for property damage victims in Homestead. It explains how to file a property claim step by step, what to watch out for, and where to turn when your insurer doesn’t act in good faith.

Why Property Claims Are a Major Issue in Homestead

Homestead is located in Miami-Dade County, one of the most hurricane-prone areas in the United States. After Hurricane Irma in 2017, the region saw tens of thousands of property damage claims, many of which were delayed or underpaid. In more recent events, Hurricane Ian caused over $112 billion in damages across Florida, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information.

Insurers in Florida are known for scrutinizing claims carefully—and not always fairly. According to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (FLOIR), more than 10% of claims in major disasters are closed without any payment.

Common Types of Property Damage in Homestead

Home and business owners in Homestead frequently file claims for:

• Roof and structural damage from hurricanes

• Water leaks or flooding from broken pipes or storms

• Mold damage caused by hidden moisture

• Fire and smoke damage

• Vandalism or theft

Even when the policy appears to cover the damage, insurers may argue about the cause, the value, or whether your repairs are necessary.

Step-by-Step: Filing a Property Claim in Florida

1. Report the Damage Immediately

As soon as it's safe, inspect your property. Take photos and videos of all visible damage. Florida law encourages immediate reporting. According to the Florida Department of Financial Services, prompt reporting strengthens your claim.

2. Review Your Insurance Policy

Check what’s covered and what’s excluded. Pay attention to deductibles, limits, and time-sensitive requirements like deadlines for filing or repairs.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

Call your insurer’s claims number or file online. You’ll receive a claim number and be assigned an adjuster. Under Florida Statute § 627.70131, insurers must acknowledge your claim within 14 days and begin investigating within 10 business days.

4. Document Everything

Keep receipts, photos, and a log of communications. Don’t throw away damaged items unless your adjuster advises you to. This documentation may be critical if your claim is denied or underpaid.

5. Schedule an Adjuster Visit

The insurer will send a claims adjuster to inspect the damage. Be present, provide documents, and point out all losses—even hidden ones like mold behind walls or water under floors.

6. Review the Settlement Offer

Once the investigation ends, you’ll receive a settlement offer. If the offer seems too low—or if your claim is denied—you have the right to dispute it.

When to Hire a Property Claim Lawyer in Homestead

Here are key warning signs that you should seek legal help:

• The insurer is delaying communication or payment

• Your claim is denied with vague reasoning

• You’re offered a settlement that won’t cover repairs

• You’re overwhelmed by the process or paperwork

• You’ve discovered more damage after filing

A property claim lawyer can review your policy, investigate the claim, handle all insurer communication, and negotiate or litigate to get what you deserve.

How Louis Law Group Can Help

If you live in Homestead and your property claim is delayed, denied, or underpaid, Louis Law Group can help. Their attorneys specialize in Florida property damage claims and have experience with hurricane, flood, and fire-related cases.

They offer:

• Free consultations to review your claim

• Documentation assistance and claim preparation

• Negotiation with insurers to increase settlements

• Litigation if needed to recover full compensation

• No upfront fees – they only get paid if you win

To begin or learn more, visit: How to File a Property Damage Insurance Claim

Florida Legal Protections for Policyholders

Florida law supports your right to fair treatment:

• Claim acknowledgment deadline: Florida Statute § 627.70131 requires insurers to respond within 14 days.

• Attorney fee rights: Florida Statute § 627.428 allows courts to award attorney’s fees if you win against your insurer.

• One-year lawsuit deadline: As explained by the Florida Department of Financial Services, you now have 1 year to file suit after denial or underpayment.

Knowing your rights gives you the power to push back when your claim is mishandled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to file a property insurance claim in Florida?

Generally, you should file as soon as possible. You have 1 year to file a lawsuit if the claim is denied or underpaid.

Q: Can I still file if I already made temporary repairs?

Yes. Keep all receipts and photos of the damage before repairs. You can still file with proper documentation.

Q: Will hiring a lawyer delay my claim further?

No. A lawyer may actually speed up the process by holding the insurer accountable and managing communication.

Q: What if my damage is from a past storm?

You may still have legal options. Call a property claim lawyer to review your policy and timelines.

Q: Does my policy cover flood damage?

Only if you purchased flood insurance separately, often through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Homeowner’s policies typically exclude flood damage.

Conclusion

Filing a property damage claim in Homestead shouldn’t feel like a fight—but for many, it does. When insurers delay, deny, or underpay, it’s critical to know your rights and have the right legal support.

Whether you’re dealing with hurricane destruction, flood losses, or fire damage, understanding the claim process can help you take control. So, are you ready to protect your property and get the compensation you rightfully deserve?

Contact Louis Law Group today for a free consultation. Call 833-657-4812 or submit a free case evaluation form to get started. Don’t wait—let us help you take the first step toward justice and financial recovery.