Melbourne, Florida · Serving clients statewide

Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM  ·  Free consultation

Michael P. Sapourn, JD, CIC, CRM
Property & Storm Claims

Hurricane and Windstorm Damage Claims

The short answer

After a hurricane, insurers facing large losses often lowball, delay or deny claims. Michael Sapourn helps Florida homeowners, condominium associations and businesses value their storm damage properly, coordinates with an ethical public adjuster when needed, and pursues full payment when the insurer will not settle fairly.

How hurricane coverage works

Florida property policies are required to offer coverage for hurricane damage. Most commercial properties and condominium associations either include it in their property policy or write it separately, sometimes through Citizens Property Insurance Corporation.

A few points that often surprise policyholders:

  • Hurricane deductibles are usually separate from your regular deductible and are often a percentage of your dwelling limit (commonly 2%, 5% or 10%).
  • Flood and storm surge are typically excluded from standard property policies and require separate flood coverage.
  • Policies define when hurricane coverage applies based on official watches and warnings, so the timing of the damage can matter.

Why storm claims get underpaid

A major storm can take a large bite out of an insurer’s surplus. Some companies manage those losses by lowballing, delaying or denying claims payments.

Preparing your proof of loss is detailed, time-consuming work. A good public adjuster can take much of the paperwork off your hands, but not every adjuster deals ethically. Mr. Sapourn can quarterback your claim by helping you choose an ethical, experienced licensed Florida Public Adjuster. Together they work to value the claim properly and ask the right questions.

When the insurer will not be fair

If your insurance company simply will not offer a fair settlement, you may need an attorney. Mr. Sapourn has handled storm claims for homeowners and businesses across Melbourne, the Space Coast, Orlando and the rest of Florida. Call to schedule a free consultation.

Frequently asked questions

How do hurricane deductibles work in Florida?

Hurricane damage is usually subject to a separate, higher deductible, often stated as a percentage of your dwelling limit, such as 2%, 5% or 10%. Check your declarations page or have the policy reviewed.

Do I need a public adjuster or a lawyer after a hurricane?

A good public adjuster can help prepare your proof of loss. If the insurer still will not offer a fair settlement, you may need an attorney. Mr. Sapourn can help with both: selecting an ethical public adjuster and representing you if the claim is disputed.

Is storm surge covered under my homeowners policy?

Standard homeowners and commercial property policies generally exclude flood, including storm surge. Flood coverage is usually purchased separately. See the flood insurance claims page for more.

Free consultation

Have Mike look at your situation

Share a few details and he will follow up with you personally. Attorneys looking for an expert witness can use the same form.

Sending this form does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send confidential information until we confirm we can help.

Talk to a lawyer who knows how insurers think.

Tell Mike what happened with your claim or your agent. The first consultation is free, and you will speak with him directly.