When disaster strikes your property, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Whether it’s water damage, fire, wind, or any other peril, filing an insurance claim should bring you relief, not more stress. However, navigating the claims process isn’t as simple as calling your insurer and waiting for a check. Many homeowners unintentionally make mistakes that jeopardize their claim, leaving them with less compensation than they deserve—or worse, nothing at all. At Coral Coast Claims, we’ve seen it all. As public adjusters, we represent homeowners and ensure they don’t fall into the pitfalls that can make or break a claim. Here are the most common mistakes homeowners make when filing property damage claims—and how having a public adjuster by your side can help you avoid them. 1. Failing to Document the Damage Thoroughly When it comes to property damage claims, documentation is everything. Many homeowners rush to clean up or make repairs without taking proper photos, videos, or written notes of the damage. Without this evidence, your insurer may question the extent or even the existence of the damage. How a Public Adjuster Helps: We know exactly what to document and how to present it to the insurance company. We create a detailed record of the damage to ensure nothing is overlooked or disputed. 2. Not Understanding the Policy Insurance policies are complex, filled with jargon and fine print. Homeowners often assume their policy covers more than it does or misunderstand key exclusions, deductibles, and coverage limits. This can lead to denied or underpaid claims. How a Public Adjuster Helps: We’re experts at interpreting insurance policies. We break down the fine print, identify coverage you may not even realize you have, and make sure your claim is submitted correctly under your policy’s terms. 3. Delaying the Claim Process Insurance companies have strict deadlines for reporting and filing claims. Waiting too long to contact your insurer or submit necessary paperwork can result in your claim being denied outright. How a Public Adjuster Helps: We act quickly and handle the deadlines for you. From the initial claim filing to follow-ups, we make sure nothing slips through the cracks. 4. Relying on the Insurance Company’s Adjuster Many homeowners trust that the insurance company’s adjuster has their best interests at heart. Unfortunately, the adjuster works for the insurer, not for you. How a Public Adjuster Helps: We work for you. As your advocate, we ensure your claim is thoroughly reviewed and accurately valued. We’re not tied to the insurance company’s bottom line; our focus is to ensure you get a proper settlement. 5. Accepting the First Offer Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement, but it’s rarely the full amount you’re entitled to. Homeowners often accept these offers out of frustration or financial need. How a Public Adjuster Helps: We know what your claim is truly worth. If the initial offer is too low, we negotiate with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement that covers your actual losses. 6. Overlooking Additional Expenses Many homeowners forget to include additional living expenses (ALE) in their claim, such as temporary housing, meals, and transportation costs if they’re displaced from their home. These are valid claims under many policies but often go unclaimed. How a Public Adjuster Helps: We identify all eligible expenses, including ALE, and ensure they’re included in your claim. This way, you’re fully compensated for your losses. 7. Not Knowing When to Dispute When a claim is denied or underpaid, many homeowners don’t realize they have the right to dispute the decision. Others may lack the knowledge or resources to challenge the insurer effectively. How a Public Adjuster Helps: We don’t take "no" for an answer if your claim is valid. Our team knows how to gather additional evidence, present your case, and fight for what you’re owed. The Bottom Line: Don’t Go It Alone The property insurance claims process is a maze of paperwork, deadlines, and negotiations. One misstep can cost you thousands—or worse, leave you with an unlivable property and no recourse. That’s why hiring a public adjuster is the smartest move you can make. At Coral Coast Claims, we’re here to take the burden off your shoulders and make sure you get the settlement you deserve. With years of experience helping homeowners across Florida, we’ve seen the tactics insurance companies use—and we know how to counter them. Don’t risk your claim by going it alone. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let Coral Coast Claims be your trusted advocate. Together, we’ll navigate the claims process and get you the compensation you need to rebuild. Call us now to get started!