Home and business property owners take pride in their possessions. So when any form of damage occurs, it is understandable to want the property repaired or replaced quickly. To achieve that, sometimes insurance companies will pressure property owners into quick settlements that do not fully cover the extent of the damages. That would mean undue out-of-pocket expenses.
Property damage claims come from situations where a structure is damaged or destroyed, though the owner was not physically harmed. The claim can also cover possessions, land, vehicles, and equipment that were in the property, and cost associated with, say, temporary accommodations or rental vehicle.
Frankly, smaller claims are often resolved amicably, though when a claim reaches tens of thousands of dollars or higher, you can be assured that insurance companies will attempt to settle for far less than the cost of repair or replacement or flatly issue an denial of insurance coverage.
Insurance companies may challenge replacement values, place significant depreciation on items, such as a roof, undervalue property, and restrict ‘improvements’ that may come from necessary repairs. Insurance companies will be seeking loopholes to avoid paying a proper claim. For example, flooding by rain may be covered but not a plumbing or water main break.
A property owner has the right to seek recovery of reasonable and necessary costs associated with the repair of damaged real estate, as long as the costs are less than the overall value of the property.
Dunham & Jones will represent property owners and seek proper compensation for any and all losses. We will negotiate with insurance companies and their adjusters, as well as their attorneys. As larger property damage cases frequently end up being litigated in court, the experienced trial lawyers at Dunham & Jones will begin preparing for that scenario on day one.
Contact us today to discuss your case.
Property damage can occur from:
- Floods
- Tornadoes
- Hail
- Lightning
- Severe storms
- High winds
- Fallen trees
- Fires
- Someone damaging or destroying your property
- Construction defects
- Negligence on the part of a utility or contractor