Sustaining any form of property damage is always stressful. It is a huge relief when you finally get through the claims process and receive a full and fair settlement check. Though sometimes, this will not be the end of your issues. It is not uncommon for you, or your contractor, to find additional property damage at a later date. This can create a confusing situation. Fortunately, in many cases, you will still have further options available.

First Question: Did You Sign a Release Form?

A release form is a specific type of legal document that generally originates with the insurance company. You may be asked to sign this type of document during your initial settlement. A release form will typically bring to a close all property damage claims associated with the event in question. This is because the purpose of the form is to release the insurance company from further liability. If you do not know if you have signed a release form, or if you are confused about what you have signed, you should contact an experienced Fort Lauderdale property insurance attorney for immediate legal assistance. If you have not signed release form, you can bring an additional claim for any newfound damage.

Filing a Supplemental Insurance Claim

Filing a supplemental insurance claim can help you recover compensation for additional damage. Though you can file this type of claim for other reasons as well. For example, if your damage-related expenses have materially changed, possibly because price increased or because of an insurance company error, a supplement claim may be necessary. It is critically important that supplemental claims are well prepared. The mere fact that they are filed at a date that is later in the process tends to make the insurance companies a little more skeptical. This does not mean that you are not entitled to a full and fair insurance settlement, however, you must take efforts to extensively document your additional damage. For example, imagine that you sustained major water leak damage in your home. You file your initial claim for the damage, and the process goes well. After some time passes, a contractor discovers that the leak caused substantial, previously unseen damage deep within your walls. You still may be able to recover compensation for that damage by filing a supplemental claim. As soon as you or your contractor identifies that additional damage, you should carefully document any evidence related to the damage. It is best to get photographs, videos, notes and anything else you can get your hands on related to the incident.

Do You Need Legal Assistance?

At Geyer Fuxa Tyler, our attorneys have extensive experience handling all aspects of property insurance disputes. The process of filing a claim for additional damage can be confusing, but our team can help. If your supplemental claim has been denied, please do not hesitate to contact our Sunrise, Florida office today to schedule a free review of your case. We proudly serve homeowners and businesses throughout Broward County.