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The only thing worse than seeing your precious property damaged is hearing “no” from the insurance company when you try to file a claim. That “No” could strip your business, home, or savings from you.

To help you avoid that dreaded word, this easy to understand guide helps you navigate property damage claims in McAllen. From understanding property damage to successfully navigating the claims process, this guide has the information you need. Read it through, and know that at Palker Law Firm, we also have the expertise you require to take your claims all the way to the compensation you deserve.

What is property damage?

While the term “property damage” seems fairly self-explanatory, the actual process of making an insurance claim can feel a little confusing. Broadly defined as any damage or destruction of property, property damage claims in McAllen can be more specifically broken down into real and personal property damage.

Real property damage refers to land and buildings, while personal property damage involves movable items such as vehicles and personal belongings.

Many, many things can lead to property damage, including chemical leaks contaminating real estate, car damage from accidents, and defects in construction leading to structural issues. However, one of the biggest culprits of property damage is the weather. An estimated 1 in 35 American homes were involved in a wind or hail damage claim in 2023.

How do I file a property damage claim?

Regardless of the type or cause of your McAllen property damage, there are certain steps you should take when making your claim.

Document the damage

Get a clear (literal) picture of the damage to your home, car, or belongings. Take photos. Record video. Write down detailed notes.

Review your insurance policy

Before submitting your claim, make sure you understand your policy inside and out. You pay a monthly premium for protection if your belongings are harmed. Do not hesitate to file any claim that fits under your policy.

Notify your insurance company

Promptly notify your insurance company about the damage. This step is critical as most policies require immediate reporting. Even if you have a longer period in which to report, quickly recording the damage helps you avoid potential problems.

Following this, an insurance adjuster will visit to assess the damage. Be prepared to provide all collected documentation during this meeting to support your claim.

Hire a knowledgeable attorney

McAllen property damage claims can be complex. Hiring knowledgeable attorneys can help you avoid making mistakes during the process. They can negotiate with insurance companies to avoid underpayment and ensure an accurate settlement estimate. At Palker Law Firm, we will take your claim all the way to court if we need to in order to make sure you get the maximum compensation allowed by law.

How do I increase my chances of a successful property damage claim in McAllen?

One of the biggest challenges in property damage claims in McAllen is the underpayment by insurance companies or the outright denial of a legitimate claim. Often, insurers offer settlements that fall short of actual repair costs, leaving property owners to cover the difference out-of-pocket. Insurance companies may also suggest filing multiple claims, potentially leading to double deductibles and further financial strain. To help you avoid these problems, here are a few tips:

Immediately document damage

Accurate damage assessment is crucial from the outset. Immediate documentation of damage using photos and videos can significantly strengthen your case.

Meet deadlines

Not only should be submit your property damage claim as soon as possible, but you should also be aware of and meet any deadlines for pursuing your claim. Whether submitting documentation, appealing decisions, or making court appointments, being on time for deadlines will keep your claim moving smoothly.

Do not hesitate to fight for your compensation

Getting your property damage claim approved may take a lot of effort outside or even inside court. Do not allow the insurance companies to intimidate you into backing down. Even the biggest insurance companies have been forced to offer fair compensation to property owners – We know because we got the largest residential property damage settlement in Texas history!

Do not navigate the process alone

The insurance process and negotiations can be complex. Do not try to handle the intricacies alone. Your awareness of policy details, potential risks, and proper documentation can safeguard against unforeseen events and streamline property damage claims in the McAllen area. Having an experienced attorney by your side can help you stand your ground and get the right compensation – No matter how complicated your claim is.

Don’t let the fine print of insurance leave you high and dry. At Palker Law Firm, we specialize in getting you the compensation you deserve for your property damage claims. Whether residential or commercial, our battle-tested attorneys, led by the renowned Jason Palker, have a proven record of winning against major insurance companies. Ready to get what you deserve? Contact Palker Law Firm today to start your claim journey with experts who will stop at nothing to fight for you.