Whether your property was damaged by a storm, a fire, or something else, you need to hire a Jacksonville property damage lawyer. The sooner you seek legal representation, the sooner you can file a claim and secure compensation to cover the cost of repairs.
When you need a personal injury lawyer in Jacksonville you can trust, look no further than Steinger, Greene & Feiner. Our property damage lawyers have the skills and resources required to achieve the results you want. You can count on us to be there for you every step of the way.
Why You Need a Property Damage Lawyer in Jacksonville
Property Damage Claims Are Complex
Being a coastal state, Florida is extremely vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, which cause widespread damage. These natural disasters can trigger coverage disputes, as different aspects of the damage may fall under various insurance policies, like windstorm, flood, or homeowners’ insurance. Navigating these complexities necessitates a thorough understanding of policy terms, exclusions, and the specific circumstances of the damage.
Additionally, Florida’s unique insurance regulations and laws, including those governing assignment of benefits (AOB) agreements, add another layer of complexity. AOB agreements, which are designed to simplify the claims process for property owners, have led to disputes and litigation between homeowners, contractors, and insurance companies. Florida property owners must be well-informed about these regulations and seek assistance from knowledgeable professionals, like the Jacksonville property damage lawyers at Steinger, Greene & Feiner, to navigate these challenges effectively.
Insurance Policies and Exclusions
Understanding insurance policies and their exclusions is crucial when dealing with property damage in Florida for a few key reasons:
- Coverage Clarity: Insurance policies can be complex documents filled with legal terminology. Property owners need to comprehend the specifics of their policies to know what types of damage are covered and to what extent. Without this knowledge, property owners might assume they are protected for certain events when, in reality, they are not, leaving them financially vulnerable.
- Mitigating Surprises: Insurance policy exclusions outline situations or perils that are not covered. Knowing these exclusions helps property owners anticipate potential gaps in coverage and take proactive steps to mitigate risks. For instance, if a policy excludes flood damage, a property owner in a flood-prone area can seek separate flood insurance to ensure full protection.
- Proper Claims Handling: Understanding insurance policies empowers property owners to file accurate and complete claims. It enables them to provide the necessary documentation and evidence required for a successful claim, reducing the likelihood of disputes and delays in the claims process.
- Legal Protection: In case of disputes with insurance companies, property owners who understand their policies are better equipped to assert their rights and challenge unjust claim denials or underpayments. This knowledge can be invaluable when seeking legal recourse to enforce coverage.
Understanding insurance policies and their exclusions is essential for property owners in Florida to ensure they have the right coverage, avoid unexpected financial burdens, and effectively navigate the claims process in the event of property damage.
Common Types of Property Damage in Jacksonville
Hurricanes and Tropical Storms
Given Jacksonville’s tropical location, hurricanes and tropical storms are common. Strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges brought on by these extreme weather events cause significant property damage to communities along the coast—including structural damage, flooding, and destruction of homes, businesses, and infrastructure.
Fires, Lightning, and Wind Damage
Fires, often sparked by lightning strikes and wind damage, pose significant threats to properties in Jacksonville. Lightning strikes can ignite fires that rapidly spread, while strong winds can uproot trees, tear off roofs, and damage structures, leading to extensive property loss and the need for repairs or reconstruction.
Plumbing Leaks, Mold, and Water Damage
The high humidity and occasional plumbing issues in Jacksonville can lead to property damage from water leaks and mold growth. Undetected leaks can cause extensive damage to walls, ceilings, and flooring, and the resultant moisture can create a conducive environment for mold growth, which can lead to health issues and costly remediation efforts.
Vandalism and Theft
Property owners in Jacksonville may face vandalism and theft risks, particularly in urban areas. Vandalism can result in property defacement and destruction, while theft can lead to stolen belongings and property damage during break-ins, necessitating repairs, and security improvements to safeguard against future incidents.
Common Challenges Property Owners Face
Denial or Delay of Claims by Insurance Companies
Property owners often face the challenge of insurance companies denying or delaying their claims, leaving them in a vulnerable position following property damage. Insurance providers may dispute the validity of a claim, request additional documentation, or prolong the claims process, leaving property owners without the financial support needed for timely repairs or replacements, adding stress and financial strain to an already difficult situation.
Undervaluation of Property Damages
Property owners may find that insurance companies undervalue their property damage claims, offering compensation that does not fully cover the cost of necessary repairs or replacements. This can leave property owners with out-of-pocket expenses, as they must make up the difference to restore their property to its pre-damage condition, further exacerbating their financial burden and frustrations.
The Intricacies of Insurance Policies and Their Exclusions
Navigating the complexities of insurance policies and understanding their exclusions can be a significant challenge for property owners dealing with damage. Insurance policies often contain intricate language, and it can be challenging to decipher what is covered and what is not. Misinterpretation of policy terms or unawareness of specific exclusions can lead to unexpected gaps in coverage, leaving property owners with limited protection and the responsibility for significant repair costs.
How a Jacksonville Property Damage Lawyer Can Help
Expertise in Navigating the Complexities of Insurance Claims
Property damage lawyers bring specialized knowledge and experience to the table, helping property owners navigate the intricate world of insurance claims. They can interpret insurance policies, understand coverage limitations, and identify possible compensation sources. This expertise ensures that property owners have a clear understanding of their rights and can maximize their claim’s potential value.
Advocacy Against Unjust Insurance Company Tactics
Insurance companies are notorious for using bad-faith tactics to minimize payouts and reject valid claims, leaving property owners at a disadvantage. Property damage lawyers act as strong advocates for their clients, pushing back against unfair practices such as claim denials, lowball settlements, or unreasonable delays. They can negotiate with insurance adjusters, file appeals, and even take legal action if necessary to ensure property owners receive fair compensation.
Assistance in Documentation and Evidence Collection
Property damage claims require meticulous documentation and evidence to support the claim’s validity. Lawyers specializing in property damage can help property owners gather all necessary documentation, including photographs, repair estimates, medical records (if injuries were sustained), and any other relevant evidence. This thorough approach strengthens the property owner’s case and increases the likelihood of a successful insurance claim or legal action if required.
Why Choose Steinger, Greene & Feiner for Your Property Damage Claims
We Fight for Maximum Financial Compensation
At Steinger, Greene & Feiner, we’re committed to ensuring you receive the financial compensation you deserve. We won’t stop fighting for your rights until we’ve secured the maximum compensation possible for your property damage case in Jacksonville.
Our Services Are Affordable
We understand the financial strain property damage can cause, which is why our services are accessible to all. We offer a free initial case evaluation, and you won’t incur any legal fees unless we win your case, ensuring that seeking justice doesn’t add to your financial burdens.
We Provide a Free 10-Point Inspection
An experienced home inspector will thoroughly examine your residence, assessing any damage and estimating the expenses related to repairs and settlement. This evaluation is not only crucial for your family’s well-being but also for the overall state of your property. Following the inspection, you’ll receive a comprehensive report. If any issues are uncovered, we are here to support you in initiating a claim, allowing us to advocate for the highest possible compensation on your behalf.
We Make Communication Convenient for You
Communication should be easy for you. Whether you prefer in-person meetings or the convenience of online interaction, our team is here to accommodate your needs. We can handle your entire property damage case online if that’s what works best for you.
Our Office Locations Are Convenient
With offices in several Florida cities, including Jacksonville, we are conveniently located to serve you effectively. Whether you’re in Coral Gables, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Miami, Orlando, or any of our other locations, we’re here to provide expert legal assistance for your property damage claim.
Our Team Is Available 24/7
Property damage issues can arise at any time, which is why our team is available around the clock. We’re here 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns, ensuring that you have the support you need when you need it.
We Have a Track Record of Success
With over 25 years of experience representing and winning property damage cases for Jacksonville residents, you can trust Steinger, Greene & Feiner to deliver results. Our proven track record of winning over $1 billion for our clients speaks to our dedication and expertise in handling property damage claims in the Jacksonville area.
See What Our Clients Have to Say
“I had the best experience with my attorney, Josh. He was always available to answer any questions I had. He is kind and thoughtful even if a question I had was silly. He always reassured me everything was going to be alright, and it was. I will be referring him and your Law Firm to anyone who needs an excellent Personal Injury Attorney.”
– Denise Morales
“Steinger, Greene & Feiner is the firm you will truly be happy with. They kept me informed of my case every step of the way & in a very timely manner. They made me feel confident and treated me with such kindness. I am a very happy & satisfied customer.”
– Jennifer Ellison
“From beginning to end my attorney Alison Davis was so attentive and on top of every detail of the process. It isn’t something that you can do on your own, and Steinger, Greene, and Feiner is a great option. I hope I don’t need to but would definitely use them again. Very happy with my settlement, and as they say “I love my attorney!”
– Ross Lappin
“This is one of the best attorneys I have ever used. They kept me informed on what they were doing and how they did it. To all who are looking for a good attorney, this is the one to use. You won’t regret it. They are the best. He will be my attorney from now on when I need him.”
– Rodney Shuemake
“I went to one attorney with my case and I didn’t hear anything from them via text, phone, or email—nothing. Within a couple of hours, I got a text letting me know the lawyers were working on my case and would be in touch with me. I love that because you need to know what’s going on with your case without you having to call them and see what’s going on.”
– Sheila Stokes
“They all really exceeded all my expectations! They handled my case in a very professional and timely manner. I never had to worry or handle anything! If it wasn’t for this team of professionals, I fear the insurance company would’ve beaten me out of the care and money I deserved. I highly recommend this law office. They’re dedicated to getting you the money and care you deserve after a life-changing experience like the car accident I was in. Thanks so much!!”
– April Scarffol
“I was hurt and scared at the beginning of my ordeal. Mostly confused and didn’t know where to turn for a lawyer to help me navigate my case. My attorneys have been an absolute pleasure! I couldn’t have asked for a less painless process. They worked so hard and took all the guesswork out of my case. What truly stood out above everything was how nice, sweet, polite, and understanding they both were. If I ever need representation in the future, I will definitely be reaching out to the SGF team. Thank you for everything! It has been a pleasure to get to work with you. I couldn’t be happier with how things turned out.”
– Dawn Cheek
Contact a Jacksonville Property Damage Lawyer Today
Do you need money to cover expenses brought on by unexpected property damage? A Jacksonville property damage lawyer at Steinger, Greene & Feiner will help you get the compensation you need to pay for all repair and replacement costs. When you work with us, you don’t have to settle for less than you deserve. We’ll fight for your rights to secure maximum financial compensation. Get started today with a free case evaluation.