The settlement you can obtain from a water damage claim depends on several factors, but most notably the extent and severity of the damage. Other notable factors include any limits on your policy, your insurer's cooperation, and how well the damage is documented. Working with a public adjuster and attorney for water damage claims in Florida can help you maximize the overall value of your claim.

To make the most of a pipe burst insurance claim, you need to ensure thorough documentation of the damage caused by the broken pipe. Take pictures of any affected areas, and hold off on making long-term repairs for the time being. If temporary repairs are needed, keep receipts, as you may be able to be reimbursed for some of the cost. Most importantly, contact a broken pipe insurance claim attorney and public adjuster to help you pursue the full value of your claim.

In the state of Florida, you generally need to notify your insurer of your claim within one year of when the damage occurred. You should also check your policy to make sure your policy doesn't impose any additional limits. As a rule of thumb, it's best to act quickly to avoid delays and resolve the matter promptly—but it's advised to consult with an attorney to maximize your claim first.

There are a few reasons your insurer might deny a water damage claim. One common reason is that the insurer might not consider the damage to be covered by your policy—for instance, water damage caused by poor maintenance or regular wear and tear is not covered by most home insurance policies, and the same goes for damage caused by flooding. Your insurance might also deny a claim if they believe you did not handle the claim appropriately, such as by stalling on reporting the damage or allowing it to worsen after discovery. Consider contacting a public adjuster as soon as possible to ensure your claim is handled appropriately for maximum compensation.

While a public adjuster isn't strictly required, they can make a big impact on the value of your settlement. Typically, insurance companies will hire an adjuster to assess the damage to your property and assign a value to your claim. But insurance companies don't necessarily have your best interests in mind—some will try to minimize the amount they owe you. By hiring your own adjuster, you can have an advocate in your corner to argue for the full amount you are owed. At Senft Legal, we provide the services of both an adjuster and an attorney for property insurance claims, meaning you can also get critical legal support while saving on attorney fees.