If your property has been damaged because of someone else’s negligent acts, you will want to claim compensation. However, you will not want to wait long or you could miss your chance for legal recourse.
Filing a property claim is the first step you’ll take after a property-related incident. Understanding how long you have and what is involved will help you have a better chance for financial recovery.
The Time Limit on Florida Property Damage Claims
If you own any property in Florida, you must first file a claim with your insurance within four years from the date your property was damaged. After filing, your insurer will have 14 days to acknowledge that it has been received and request any additional documentation.
You will need to present evidence regarding your claim, and since that takes time, it’s wise to start as soon as possible. Even though you have four years to file your claim, the sooner you act, the more likely you’ll be to have plenty of evidence.
How to File Your Property Damage Claim in the State of Florida
When your property has been damaged by a negligent person, you can turn to the legal system to recover compensation. Property damage claims can get complicated and you’ll want to make sure you take the right steps during the process.
The first thing you should do is gather all evidence of your property damage. Photos, videos, and other documentation can show the extent of the damage. It also helps to file a police report to serve as additional documentation.
While you can carry on through the process on your own, it is best to hire a Fort Myers lawyer for property claims. They will be very familiar with these situations and help you protect your rights while seeking compensation on your behalf. They will also help you gather proof to support your claim that may involve expert witness testimony.
With an attorney, it is easier to file your property damage claim through your insurance company. They often try many tactics to lower your settlement and your attorney will have the experience to negotiate with them for what is fair.
Sometimes, negotiations can go absolutely nowhere, which is when your lawyer will take the next steps to bring your lawsuit to court. From there, they will present the evidence in the courtroom and create a compelling case to get the money you deserve for your property damages.
Ultimately, if you wind up with property damage caused by a negligent person or entity, you should understand the rights you have under the law. You should not be stuck paying for someone else’s careless mistake.
If you act quickly, you will have a better chance of getting the outcome you want when you start filing your property damage claim immediately. Those four years can go by fast, and much of the most crucial evidence will disappear with them. Don’t let the money you are owed for this negligent act slip out of your grasp.
