Reliable Ways to Hire a Hurricane Damage Attorney in Melbourne, Florida

Melbourne, Florida residents are no strangers to hurricane season. When storms bring strong winds and flooding to Brevard County, property damage can be widespread—roofs torn off, windows shattered, interiors soaked, and power lost for days. After the storm passes, the last thing any homeowner wants is to battle with their insurance company.

If your insurer is slow to respond, offers a low settlement, or outright denies your claim, hiring a hurricane damage attorney in Melbourne might be your best move. In this guide, we’ll cover reliable, practical steps to get the legal help you need and ensure your claim is handled fairly.

When Is It Time to Call an Attorney?

Insurance companies don’t always act in your best interest. Their goal is to protect their profits, which can lead to tactics like:

• Delaying inspections or payment

• Offering lowball settlements that don’t cover real repair costs

• Blaming the damage on prior conditions

• Denying claims based on technicalities

Under Florida Statute § 627.70131, insurers are required to acknowledge your claim within 14 days and settle it within 90 days. If they fail to do this—or treat you unfairly—a hurricane damage attorney can help hold them accountable.

Key Qualities to Look For in a Hurricane Damage Attorney

Melbourne homeowners need more than just legal representation—they need someone who understands Florida’s insurance laws and how hurricane damage typically affects local properties. Look for:

• Experience handling hurricane and windstorm claims in Florida

• Knowledge of local building codes and storm impact trends

• Clear, honest communication and regular updates

• A contingency-based fee structure (no payment unless they win)

• Proven results handling denied, delayed, or underpaid claims

Hiring the right attorney early in the process can make the difference between a weak settlement and a successful recovery.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Hurricane

Your actions in the days after the storm can make or break your insurance claim. Follow these steps to protect your home and your case:

1. Photograph and Video All Damage

Document the damage to your roof, walls, ceiling, floors, appliances, and personal belongings. Include timestamps where possible.

2. Make Emergency Repairs Only

Prevent further loss by tarping roofs, boarding up windows, or drying water-soaked areas. Save every receipt—these may be reimbursed.

3. Request a Full Copy of Your Insurance Policy

Under Fla. Stat. § 627.4137, you have the right to request and review your policy. This helps identify covered losses.

4. Log Every Communication

Track who you spoke to, when, and what was said. Keep copies of all emails, letters, and voicemails from your insurer.

5. Avoid Making Major Repairs Too Soon

Don’t start full-scale restoration before your property is inspected. Premature repairs can weaken your claim.

Need a helpful resource to stay on track after the storm?

👉 What to Do Immediately After Hurricane Damage

How Louis Law Group Can Help

If your insurer is stalling or refusing to pay what your claim is worth, Louis Law Group can help Melbourne homeowners secure the compensation they’re entitled to. Their legal team offers:

• Free consultations and no upfront fees

• Detailed policy review and claim preparation

• Negotiation with insurance adjusters and legal teams

• Support for denied, delayed, or underpaid claims

• A full legal strategy from start to finish

Want to better understand your policy’s terms and limits?

👉 Understanding Florida Property Insurance Policies

Tips for Filing Hurricane Claims in Melbourne

Melbourne’s location near the Atlantic makes it highly vulnerable during storm season. Here are local insights that could improve your insurance outcome:

• Don’t assume flood damage is covered. Most homeowners insurance excludes it—you need a separate flood policy for rising water or storm surge.

• Avoid early settlement traps. Quick offers are often too low. Get a second opinion before accepting anything.

• Independent adjusters can help. Their reports can challenge low estimates from your insurer.

• Keep receipts for everything. Temporary housing, meals, and supplies may be claimable.

• Know your deadlines. You have 3 years to file a hurricane claim and 5 years to sue for unpaid claims (Fla. Stat. § 95.11).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I hire an attorney if I already filed the claim myself?

Yes. A lawyer can step in at any point and improve the outcome of your claim—even if it’s already been partially paid.

Q: What if my insurer says the damage isn’t covered?

An attorney can challenge that decision. Many policies contain vague or misleading language that can be disputed in court.

Q: Is it too late if I accepted a small check?

No. You can file a supplemental claim if new damage is found or if the payout was clearly inadequate.

Conclusion

In Melbourne, Florida, recovering from hurricane damage is never easy—but you don’t have to do it alone. If your insurer isn’t cooperating, a skilled hurricane damage attorney can help you build a strong case and fight for the compensation you deserve.

After the storm has passed, who’s really protecting your home—you or your insurance company?

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.