What Is Covered in My Florida Homeowner’s Property Insurance?

Owning a home in Florida is a big investment, and like all investments, protecting it is important. When unexpected accidents or disasters strike, Florida homeowner’s insurance can be your safety net. However, knowing exactly what your policy covers can be a bit confusing.

If you are facing property damage in the Fort Lauderdale area and have questions about your insurance coverage, the team at Premier Property Law can help. Our  Fort Lauderdale residential property damage lawyers represent Florida homeowners in insurance disputes.

Standard Florida Homeowner’s Insurance Coverages

Homeowner’s insurance provides an invaluable shield against a range of misfortunes that can damage or destroy your house and the things you keep in it. In Florida, your coverage typically includes these main areas:

• Structure (the dwelling itself): This protects your main house in case perils like fire, lightning, hurricane damage, and more.
• Other Structures (sheds and fences): Coverage for detached garages, sheds, fences, gazebos, and other structures on your property.
• Personal Property (contents of the structures): This safeguards your belongings like furniture, electronics, clothing, and appliances against theft, damage from covered events, and other losses.
• Loss of Use (Additional Living Expense or ALE): If you temporarily need to move due to a covered incident, like extensive repairs, this can help with those expenses.
• Personal Liability: Coverage in case someone gets injured on your property and sues you, offering protection for legal defense and potential damages.
• Medical Payments to Others: Medical payments made to people who were accidentally injured on your property without having to establish fault.

Understanding these standard coverages in your Florida homeowner’s insurance policy is the first step toward protecting your hard-earned investments. If you have questions about your specific policy or potential gaps in coverage, do not hesitate to consult with a knowledgeable Fort Lauderdale residential property damage lawyer.

Other Types of Florida Homeowner’s Insurance Policies

Every homeowner needs coverage for their unique needs, making it important to understand the different types of insurance policies available. The types and amounts of coverage vary and often depend on what risks you may be more vulnerable to, the age of your home, and other factors.

• Basic Form: Minimal coverage for a limited group of perils (named in the policy), like fire, wind, and theft.
• Broad Form: Covers more than the basic, typically including damage from falling objects, freezing pipes, etc.
• Special Form: An “open perils” policy, meaning it covers everything except specific exclusions identified in the policy.
• Comprehensive Form: Offers even broader coverage than Special Form, typically used for more expensive homes.
• Older Home Form: Tailored to the unique needs and specific replacement costs associated with older houses.

If you are unsure which policy applies to you, consult with a qualified insurance agent or a Fort Lauderdale residential property damage lawyer. They can help you assess your risks and find the coverage that gives you peace of mind.

How a Fort Lauderdale Property Damage Insurance Claim Lawyer Can Help

Even with what seems like clear coverage, Florida property damage insurance claims can become incredibly complex.  Unfortunately, insurance companies are not always eager to pay the full amount you deserve. A Fort Lauderdale property damage insurance claim lawyer can advocate on your behalf to:

• Review Your Policy: Evaluate limits, coverage types, and exclusions to make sure you get everything you are entitled to.
• Help With Claim Filing: Handle communications with the insurer and ensure paperwork is on time and in order.
• Estimate your damages thoroughly: Obtain professional assessments and make sure no damage is overlooked.
• Negotiate With the Insurance Company: Fight for a fair settlement to minimize your out-of-pocket costs.
• Representation in litigation: If needed, aggressively represent your case in court.

Navigating Florida homeowner’s insurance coverage can be stressful, especially when a disaster strikes. At Premier Property Law, we have the knowledge and experience to guide you through those claims, seeking the maximum compensation you deserve under your policy.

If you need help with property damage, do not hesitate to contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation. Remember, there is no question too big or too small. We are here to protect one of your most valuable assets – your home.