Hurricane Helene struck Florida’s Big Bend region as a category 4 hurricane on September 25, 2024. Milton came ashore near Siesta Key, Florida, as a major hurricane on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 just 14 days later. Fourteen people were reported dead and millions were without power. The storms combined to cause significant damage throughout Florida.
It is critical to take steps to protect your property and limit further damage. First, document and photograph any and all damage to the structure. Next go room by room to secure photographs of damaged contents as well as their placement in each room post storm. It is critical to include a date stamp on the photo(s) if possible as this documents the loss. Second, mitigate all damage as reasonably an safely as possible. Third, obtain and review your insurance policies. Please note deductibles including the difference between “All Other Perils” and Hurricane Deductible. The latter is typically a percentage of the dwelling limits unless purchased lower. The hurricane deductible should be applied on an annual basis, but only if you are insured by the same insurance company during the timeframe for each consecutive insured loss.
Please seek professional assistance to navigate the claim process should you feel it is needed. 813-685-8600.