Many Florida insurance companies include language in their policies that limits the ability of a policyholder to recover for a hurricane or windstorm-related damage that occurs in their home. This language is oftentimes referred to as “covered or named peril,” language and frequently appears with most larger carriers such as Citizens.

Meanwhile, some other carriers have policies, such as those issued by Universal, that contain “wind-driven rain,” language, which is technically more forgiving and may give the usual policyholder a better chance of having the claim covered and fairly paid.

As with any property insurance policy matter, it is important to start by reviewing the specific policy language that is in play and to ensure as strict compliance, as possible.

What does the term “covered” or “named” peril mean in the context of hurricane/windstorm claims? 

Simply put, if a policy includes the foregoing, “covered /named peril”,” language-this means that only the specifically enumerated causes of property damage will be covered. Further reading of the policy will then reveal that coverage is extended for damages to the property caused by wind. This is especially relevant when high wind-related storm damage occurs. In this case, the high storm winds must initially create the opening or hole in the property’s roof, that the ensuing water damage enters through, in order for the loss to be covered.

This means that just rain or water, will not do it. There needs to be a high wind event that initially causes an opening in the roof, for the water damage that subsequently occurs, to be compensable. 

This can obviously be a big point of contention between the insured and carrier when it comes time to investigate the loss and render a determination as to the cause thereof. If the cause is not a “covered peril,” under the policy such as wind; the ensuing water damage-under a covered perils policy- is generally not covered or compensable.

Many times, carriers will hire allegedly “independent” adjusters and engineers to inspect the damage and to render an opinion that no covered peril created opening existed; thus, paying the way to improperly deny coverage for the roof and interior damage, paid under that policy.

However, with every advantage the carrier attempts to exploit, there is also room for advantages to be maintained on the policyholder side. This requires the retention of quality representatives, such as the attorneys and adjusters at Kowzan Law, who have assisted on many similar claims in the past. We are very experienced in the area of hurricane and windstorm-related insurance claim issues and are prepared to assist our clients accordingly.

Remember, we do not get paid if, and until, we succeed in getting your claim paid.