What to Know Before Filing a Property Damage Claim in Tamarac, Florida

Tamarac homeowners and business owners know that Florida weather can change in an instant—sunny one moment, stormy the next. From hurricane winds to surprise plumbing leaks, property damage is an unfortunate but common part of life in South Florida.

If your property in Tamarac has been damaged, filing a claim should help you recover quickly. But too often, insurers delay, deny, or lowball claims, leaving property owners in a frustrating position. This guide offers essential insights and steps you need to take before filing a property damage claim—plus how legal help can make a big difference when things go wrong.

Why Property Claims Are a Growing Concern in Tamarac

Located in Broward County, Tamarac has seen a rise in insurance disputes as Florida faces more frequent hurricanes and severe weather. According to the Florida Division of Emergency Management, the county is at high risk for wind, flood, and storm surge damage.

After major storms like Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Ian, many homeowners in Tamarac filed insurance claims. Yet, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (FLOIR) reports that 20–25% of storm-related claims were denied or closed without payment, often due to documentation issues or insurer pushback.

Types of Property Damage Often Claimed in Tamarac

Tamarac residents often file claims for:

• Hurricane and wind-related roof damage

• Water damage from plumbing leaks or heavy rain

• Mold caused by excess moisture or delayed repairs

• Fire and smoke damage from electrical or cooking incidents

• Theft or vandalism damage to homes and businesses

Even when damage is clearly visible, insurers may claim the cause isn’t covered, or offer a payout that doesn’t come close to the actual cost of repairs.

What to Know Before You File a Property Claim

1. Understand What Your Policy Covers (and Doesn’t)

Before contacting your insurer, review your policy’s coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions. Most standard policies don’t include flood damage unless purchased separately.

2. Gather Evidence Right Away

Take photos and videos of the damage before cleaning or repairing anything. Save receipts and document any emergency expenses, like tarping or water removal.

3. Don’t Delay Your Claim

The longer you wait, the more complicated the claim may become. According to Florida Statute § 627.70131, insurers must acknowledge your claim within 14 days and begin investigating within 10 business days.

4. Track Every Conversation

Keep a log of who you speak to, when, and what’s said. Save emails, voicemails, and text messages. You may need them later if there’s a dispute.

5. Be Cautious with the First Settlement Offer

The insurer’s initial offer might be far below what you actually need. You have the right to negotiate or hire a lawyer to dispute it.

When Legal Help Makes the Difference

You should consider hiring a property claim lawyer in Tamarac if:

• Your claim is denied without clear explanation

• The insurance company is delaying payment

• The settlement offer is too low to cover real repairs

• You’re overwhelmed by documentation or legal language

• You're being blamed for the damage or offered “depreciated value” unfairly

An experienced lawyer can take over communication with your insurer, gather expert estimates, and fight for the full value of your claim.

How Louis Law Group Can Help

For Tamarac homeowners frustrated with their property insurance claim, Louis Law Group provides trusted legal support across Florida. Their experienced attorneys handle everything from wind and flood damage claims to fire loss and vandalism cases.

They offer:

• Free consultations to assess your claim

• Clear policy reviews and strategy guidance

• Negotiation with your insurance provider

• Lawsuit representation if needed

• No fees unless they win your case

Check out their helpful resource: How to File a Property Damage Insurance Claim

Florida Laws That Protect You as a Policyholder

Florida law includes several protections for property owners facing insurance disputes:

• Response Timelines: Under Florida Statute § 627.70131, insurers must investigate and respond to claims promptly.

• Attorney Fee Coverage: Florida Statute § 627.428 allows courts to order insurers to pay your legal fees if you win in court.

• Lawsuit Time Limits: Per the Florida Department of Financial Services, you have 1 year to sue after a denied or underpaid claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I file a claim if repairs have already started?

Yes, but keep all receipts and pre-repair photos. Document as much as possible before repairs begin.

Q: How much does a property claim lawyer cost?

Most work on contingency—you only pay if they recover money for you.

Q: What if the adjuster missed something?

You can provide your own contractor’s estimate or have a lawyer help you dispute the report.

Q: Is storm surge damage covered under my policy?

Not usually. Storm surge is considered flood damage, which requires separate NFIP flood insurance.

Q: Can I reopen my claim if I accepted a low offer?

Possibly. If new damage is discovered or the original payout was insufficient, you may qualify for a supplemental claim.

Conclusion

Insurance should be there to help when disaster strikes—but too often, Tamarac property owners are left fighting for what they’re owed. By knowing your rights, documenting your damage, and calling in legal support when needed, you can take control of the process and protect your investment.

Isn’t it time you stopped waiting on your insurer—and started getting the compensation you 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.