Water may seem harmless. We use it every day to drink, bathe and clean. But it can also be extremely destructive to our home’s building materials. Just one pipe leak, flood or roof leak can cost homeowners thousands of dollars in water damage. Miami is one of the most vulnerable cities in the United States due to its warm, humid climate and coastal location. Water damage can also result in the growth of dangerous mold and fungus that can cause a variety of health issues. While nobody can predict when a flood or leak is going to happen, there are ways prepare you home for an emergency situation.
Preparing for a Disaster
The threat of water damage is a constant in Miami. Most homeowners only pay attention during hurricane season. However, a flood or leak can happen at any time. Here are some tips to minimize property damage and the loss of valuable possessions.
- Secure Your Valuable Items: Never keep important documents or valuable possessions on the floor or where they can be exposed to water. Make sure your furniture is moved to safer areas of your home. Keep all important documents and valuable items in a place where they are covered and well above the ground. Make sure all your outdoor furniture is properly secured. Not only does it save them from water damage, it also prevents them from becoming dangerous projectiles during a windstorm.
- Create a Water Disaster Survival Kit: Gather essential items needed should you lose power. Make sure you have a flashlight, batteries, candles, bottled water and perishable food. In addition to hurricanes, Miami is also vulnerable to other windstorms, including tornadoes and tropical storms.
- Review Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy: When it comes to disaster preparation, knowledge is power. Many homeowners have not taken the time to carefully review their insurance policy. The truth is many insurance companies do not cover water damage caused by floods. Many do not cover repairs for mold damage. Even if you are protected, some companies may use loopholes to underpay or even deny your insurance claim.
- Make Sure Your Roof is Inspected: A yearly roof inspection is one of the best ways to prevent roof leaks. With winter underway, getting an inspection now can help prevent expensive repairs later. Many homeowners often make the mistake of trying to fix roof leaks themselves. A professional roofer can often identify roof problems most people can’t see. Climbing on top of your roof can also be a safety hazard. Too many people have been injured trying to make roof repairs on their own. Leave all roof repairs to a professional.
How a Miami Home Insurance Lawyer Can Help for Water Damage
Every homeowner needs insurance. But when your water damage insurance claim has been underpaid or denied, it can be a powerless feeling. An inadequate settlement can leave homeowners in a very difficult position. Proper compensation is needed to cover your repairs and lost items. The best solution is to contact an experienced Miami home insurance lawyer with a track record of fighting for the rights of clients. Whether you need assistance re-assessing your water damage, filling out your insurance claim or resolving your dispute with the insurance company, attorney Jonathan Korin can help. To learn more, contact the offices of Korin Law, P.A. and schedule a consultation to discuss your case.
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