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Hurricane Preparedness and Recovery Guide by Becker and Association Adjusting

Hurricane Preparedness and Recovery Guide by Becker and Association Adjusting

  • Posted: Aug 29, 2023
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Hurricane Preparedness and Recovery Guide

by Becker and Association Adjusting

The State of Florida is no stranger to hurricanes and other natural disasters.

Living in paradise doesn’t come without some risks associated with Mother Nature. The question is never just if our communities, homes and families will be impacted by a windstorm event, but when they will, and how we will prepare for and recover from that event.

In addition to our in-house legal services, Becker owns and operates Association Adjusting, a licensed and insured public adjusting firm led by Joseph “Joe Connelly (#E157037). Mr. Connelly has served as Executive Board Officer for the Florida Association of Public Adjusters (FAPIA).

Recognized as an authority in the community association industry, Association Adjusting has the expertise and experience to help community associations achieve the most favorable outcome possible. Our team of public adjusters, led by Mr. Connelly, provides clients with only the highest level of professionalism and excellence – whether you’re dealing with a claim that stems from hurricane damage, water damage, theft, fire, mold, roof leak, or any other type of calamity, our singular goal is to ensure your interests are always protected.

The first step toward developing and implementing a disaster plan is identifying the potential consequences of a disaster. The second step is to develop and implement a plan to mitigate the impact of a disaster to the fullest extent possible.

Click here to read more!

Disaster Resources & Links

Federal Emergency Management Agency for federal disaster response and recovery information

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for information about federal flood insurance

Home Inventory Checklist

Information about Flood Insurance

Flood Insurance Writers

Flood Resources: National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
Contact Information: Phone: 1-888-FLOOD29 or 1-888-356-6329

Flood Claims Process

Filing a Flood Insurance Claim

Premium Discounts for Hurricane Loss Mitigation

Notice of Premium Discounts for Hurricane Loss Mitigation

Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form

Homeowners insurance toolkit

Are you prepared for Hurricane Season?

Preparing for Natural Disasters, and Recovering from them

Disaster Preparedness at Home: Filter Out the Damage

Disaster Prep & Self Storage – What You Need to Know

PA DMV Emergency Driving Tips

Emergency Preparedness for People Requiring Special Assistance

Humane Society – Protect Your Pets

DISCLAIMER

Becker provides access to information on this website page as a public service. Although reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all electronic information made available is current, complete and accurate, Becker does not warrant or represent that this information is current, complete and accurate. All information is subject to change on a regular basis, without notice. Becker assumes no responsibility for any errors in the information provided, nor assumes any liability for any damages incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of any of the contents of the website page. The inclusion of, or linking to, other website URLs does not imply our endorsement of, nor responsibility for, those web sites, but has been done as a convenience to our website visitors.

 

 

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Dynasty helped over 1,500 property owners get new roofs paid for by their insurance company in the Tampa, Sarasota, and Orlando areas. by Dynasty Building Solutions

Dynasty helped over 1,500 property owners get new roofs paid for by their insurance company in the Tampa, Sarasota, and Orlando areas. by Dynasty Building Solutions

  • Posted: Apr 02, 2023
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Dynasty helped over 1,500 property owners get new roofs paid for by their insurance company in the Tampa, Sarasota, and Orlando areas.

by Dynasty Building Solutions

Not All Roof Damage is Obvious

There are some unmistakable signs that you need a roofer pronto. For example, if a hurricane caused a large tree branch to become lodged in your roof, you would not hesitate to call Dynasty Building Solutions immediately. Most of the time, however, the signs that you need to call your roofing company can be more subtle. Since roof damage can turn into water damage, mold, and other major problems here in the hot and humid Tampa area, it’s important to be alert for some of the following issues so you will know to call us for an inspection, a roof repair , or even a roof replacement. Here are some signs that you should get in touch as soon as feasible. 
Water Damage
Water Stains on Your Walls or Ceilings:  If you’re noticing dampness or water stains on your ceilings or interior walls, this is a clear sign that you have a leak somewhere. Of course, the leak might not be from your roof, so it pays to do a little bit of investigative work. You might have a leak caused by condensation on your central air vents, for example, or you might be dealing with a dripping pipe in an upstairs bathroom. If you can’t quickly detect where the water is coming from, however, it’s wise to get a roof inspection done promptly.
As you probably know, water damage in Southwest Florida is likely to turn into mold pretty quickly, and water stains on the ceiling are a good indication that you’ve got at least some minor water damage. If the stains have been there since you moved in and they haven’t gotten any worse, then chances are good that you don’t have an urgent problem, but if they feel damp or if they seem to be growing, that’s an issue that needs to be addressed right away.
Storm Over Neighborhood
Dripping or Leaking During Rainstorms:  The downpours in this part of Florida during the rainy season can be impressive, but they should not cause any dripping or leaking in your attic. If you haven’t been in the attic in a while, try to check it during the next afternoon storm to make sure that you don’t see or hear any dripping or leaking. Shine a flashlight into the corners to check it visually; only go into the attic if you are sure you can do so safely. If you see, hear, or feel water coming in, call us right away so we can see what the problem is.
In some cases, a leak in the attic will mean that you need the roof replaced, but other times, it will only require a repair. Better to get it addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage that can lead to a more extensive (and expensive) solution.
Torn roof shingle
Missing, Torn, or Curled Shingles:  If you can use a ladder safely to check your roof or if you can see parts of it from the ground, watch for missing, torn, or curled asphalt shingles. When a shingle is damaged, it can allow water to penetrate the underlayment or the wood beneath. In many cases, a simple repair is all that is needed, but you will need to have an inspection. Remember that since water flows from the peak of the roof down toward the lower elevations, torn shingles toward the top of the roof could be causing damage down below. Let one of our inspectors take a look and see whether there is any damage that needs to be addressed.
Damp or Darkened Shingles
Similarly, if you see one section of asphalt shingles that are darkened or that feel damp when the rest of the roof is dry, you’ll want to have that checked. If shingles are holding onto moisture, it could mean that the material underneath is wet, which is a problem. All of your shingles should look about the same; if one area looks different in any way, that is a sign that an inspection and possibly a repair is needed.
House Gutter
Tiny Black Rocks in Your Gutter:  When you clean out your gutter, it’s normal to find leaves, small twigs, and some dirt. If you are seeing what looks like a lot of tiny black rocks or coarse black sand in your gutter, however, that is a sign that the granules, which is the material on asphalt shingles, is washing off. This is a sign that the roof is degrading and will likely need to be replaced soon.
Pinpoints of Light Shining Into Your Attic or Upper Level
Your roof should be creating a seal that water can’t get through. If there are parts where you can see pinpoints of light (or, worse, larger swaths of light) shining through, water might be able to get through those same spots. On a sunny day, go up into your attic access and look around in the dark, leaving the light off. Any sunlight peeking through should warrant a call for a roof inspection.

Only a Trained Professional Roof Inspector has the Knowledge to Identify All Forms of Roof Damage 

Roof Water Damage

Roof Inspection to Look for Damage

Some storm damage is easy to spot. If you see shingles that match your home’s roof in your front yard after a storm, you can probably assume that your roof has sustained storm damage. If strong winds blow over a tree and it crashes into your roof, you’ll be able to see it, and you’ll probably have heard it when it happened. You’ll know that you need to contact your home insurer and a roofing professional. However, often storm damage isn’t so obvious. You may have a water leak, but you can’t determine quite where it’s coming from. After a tornado or hurricane, you may have damage that you can’t see – a hole that’s too high up or located in a spot that just isn’t visible from the ground, for example. Shingles that blow off in a strong wind may not necessarily land in your own yard – they could end up far enough away that you never see them. Because hidden roof damage is a real possibility, it’s important to have your roof inspected after a severe storm. Roofing professionals are trained to find hidden roof damage. They’re also trained to inspect your roof safely. A fall from a roof can be quite serious, and a roof after a storm can be especially dangerous, as there might be spots that are slick or soft that you’re not expecting, so it’s best to let the professionals handle it. Take a look at some of the things that a roofing professional may be looking for after a storm.
Water Damage and Leaks
It’s easy to believe that if you have water damage or your roof is leaking, you’d notice it right away. However, the truth is that it’s easy for water damage and evidence of leaks to go unnoticed. The water may be pooling somewhere that’s not obvious, or the leak may be limited to the attic, garage, or some other location where it might be less noticeable. Part of the job of inspecting for damage after a storm is checking the interior of the home for signs of leaks or water damage. You may not have noticed the signs, or you may not be able to place the source of the leak if you did. But a roofing professional will know what signs to look for and will also be able to follow the leak back to its source and find out which part of the roof is letting water in.
Damaged Shingle Roofing RepairMissing and Damaged Shingles or Tiles
You might think that even if you don’t find missing shingles or tiles in your yard, you’d be able to see bare spots where they used to be if you lost some during a storm. However, that’s not necessarily the case. Depending on the design of your roof, parts of it may not be visible from the ground, and if those parts are missing shingles or tiles, you wouldn’t know it without going up there to inspect.
Tiles and shingles can also be damaged in a storm in a way that’s not visible from your position on the ground. For example, hail can leave damage that comes in the form of dimples or granules knocked off of the shingles. Chunks of hail may also be heavy enough to crack tiles. In either case, the roof may look fine to you, but this type of damage can weaken your roof. Even if it doesn’t cause leaking immediately, it may lead to leaks over time. Your roof also may not hold up as well against the next storm. For these reasons, it’s important to have a roofing professional check for shingle or tile damage that is only visible from the roof.

 

Damaged Gutters and Flashing

One thing that you may not think to look for is damage to your gutter system and roof flashing, Your gutter system is important for more than just your roof. Keeping your gutters clear and flowing freely protects your home’s foundation by preventing water from pooling around the house. It also protects your landscaping and siding. Clogged or damaged gutters can cost you a lot in repairs, so it’s important to have them checked following a storm. If your gutters are dented or broken in places, they may be more susceptible to clogging or they may allow water to pool in ways that cause damage to your home.
Your roof’s flashing is also vulnerable during a storm. Flashing is often made of galvanized aluminum (most common of roof to wall) or copper and it’s placed in between roof joints, where it helps protect your roof against water leaks. The places between joints are some of the most vulnerable spots in the roof, so flashing acts a reinforcement. But because it’s located in places that are at higher risk for damage, flashing itself is more likely to be damaged during a storm than other parts of the roof. Flashing can become warped or begin to crack after being exposed to severe weather. It can also be torn away entirely, especially during weather events with severe winds, like hurricanes and tornadoes. Roofing professionals understand the importance of flashing and know where to look to see if it’s been damaged.
If your roof has a warranty, you may be required to have regular roofing inspections and make timely repairs in order to keep the warranty valid.
If you let your roof fall into disrepair, such as by failing to have it inspected and repaired following a major storm, the warranty may not be honored. Your home’s insurer may have rules about roof inspection and repair as well. If you file a claim for damage and your insurer determines that the damage was exacerbated because you didn’t have an inspection or schedule a repair earlier, they could deny your claim or approve only part of it, leaving you with a higher repair bill than you planned on. Your best bet is to make sure that you have your roof inspected after serious storms and take steps to repair any minor damage right away before it can become major damage.

 

 
Choosing The Right Roofing Company Can Be Challenging
Your home is the single largest investments you will probably make in life. One of the biggest challenges many homeowners face when needing to repair, restore , or install new roofing to their property is choosing the right company for the job. In an emergency, choosing the right roofing company to repair damage from storms, fallen trees, termites or any other urgent issue can be critical in getting your home and life back to normal. Likewise, qualified experience is vital when restoring or building new roofing. Your roofing contractor should not only ensure the use of quality products and workmanship but have the expertise and qualifications for installing a range of roofing designs and materials.

6 Tips to Help You Decide 

Finding a roofing contractor who meets these criteria who is also trustworthy, honest, and professional can often be difficult. You need to know that your investment is in safe and reputable hands and your home is protected along with your wallet. Here are 6 tips to help guide you when choosing the right contractor for your roofing project.

1. Local roofing services are invaluable. They are more familiar with local rules and regulations and should have a good relationship with local suppliers. There also less chance of issues and scams when choosing a contractor from your area.

2. They should have a Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation. BBB contractors are required to maintain satisfactory ratings with the Better Business Bureau in order to retain their certification. This means customer satisfaction.

3. Check they offer an extensive warranty. It might take months or even sometimes years for incorrect installation or damage to reveal itself. Contractors that offer extended warranties on workmanship, especially for roof restorations , are going to be worth pursuing. Also, look at the manufacturer’s warranties on the types of materials used as it important to know that a manufacturer has done their due diligence in designing a quality product.

4. Safety is vital. A contractor should provide adequate safety training program for all its staff. A team that has been properly trained in roofing installation will ensure your roofing work is completed by quality professional roofing installers with integrity to personal and property safety. Most states require safety certification and licensing for contractors.

5. A reputable contractor will be able to handle any insurance claims for you so you can take advantage of the premiums you’ve already been paying. This helps to make the whole process easier and more affordable for you to have your roofing work done. Likewise, a reputable roofing contractor should also have adequate insurance coverage to protect the homeowner from liability in the unfortunate case a roofing employee sustains an injury at the home.

6. Get to know the roofing materials available. A good contractor will be able to offer you different roofing material options available for your home. However in some areas, HOA guidelines may dictate which type of roof you can have installed. The style and color of the roof you install can also affect the value of your home. A qualified roofing contractor will be able to guide you on this.

 

Contact us now to see if you qualify!

Our ROOFME Program (Roof Maintenance Evaluation Program) is a FREE program for property maintenance companies which provides one free annual property inspection and discounted repair services for our members.

 

Victor Lupis / Owner
Dynasty Building Solutions 
Office: (813)321-3269
Fax: (813)333-9697
www.DynastyBuildingSolutions.com
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Florida condo owners brace for rising insurance rates State lawmakers set to meet Dec. 12 for special session regarding issue

Florida condo owners brace for rising insurance rates State lawmakers set to meet Dec. 12 for special session regarding issue

  • Posted: Dec 08, 2022
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Florida condo owners brace for rising insurance rates

State lawmakers set to meet Dec. 12 for special session regarding issue

SINGER ISLAND, Fla. — Many South Florida condo owners are getting a holiday surprise they weren’t expecting — paying more for insurance. It’s all part of the state’s insurance crisis that has hit homeowners all year.

“The insurance this year is hitting us hard,” Johannes Neckermann, who sits on a condo board on Singer Island, said.

The rate hikes are not only hitting condo owners but also condo associations, which then pass on the costs to the condo owners.

“We raised this year the rate on unit owners just to afford the insurance,” Neckermann said.

He said in some cases the costs were up 40% over last year.

Florida property owners are already paying the most in the country for insurance, and it’s only getting worse.

Many condo owners are just discovering this, especially the part-time residents who are now arriving for the winter months.

“There’s a little bit of a sticker shock for people who don’t follow Florida year-round,” Robert Norberg of Arden Insurance in Lantana said.

Experts said there are several reasons for the increase in rates, all of which are making it very tough for insurance companies to stay afloat.

“It’s been several years of claim problems, and things like, that impact associations, as well as individual unit owners, plus now the Surfside [condo collapse in 2021], plus the issues with recent hurricanes,” Norberg said. “They’re all taking losses, and it hits not only the unit owner but the association in a big way.”

Condo owners are getting hit twice on those fees and then with their own insurance going up.

As with homeowners, it’s likely to drive condo dwellers to the state-run Citizens Property Insurance, which is already ballooning with more than a million policies.

Florida lawmakers are supposed to meet Dec. 12 for a special session on fixing the insurance issues, but there are no promises anything can be fixed quickly.

“They can’t force insurance companies to charge,” Norberg said. “The only thing they can do is help regulate the rates of admitted carriers.”

 

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10 Tips to Maximize Your Property Insurance Claim by The Maus Law Firm

10 Tips to Maximize Your Property Insurance Claim by The Maus Law Firm

  • Posted: Nov 03, 2022
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10 Tips to Maximize Your Property Insurance Claim

by The Maus Law Firm  / Call (954) 784-6310  now for a free consultation.

 

#1). Take photos of the damage, right away.

#2 Don’t Let the Problem get Worse.

If you have roof damage, add a tarp to cover the damage. Your insurer will not cover you for damage that you could have prevented. You will be able to claim reimbursement for these temporary repairs

#3) Save your receipts

#4) Preserve or Save Damaged Items.

You will want to clean up and throw out items that are beyond repair – They are evidence, so show your insurance adjuster.

#5) If damage affects your neighbor, do not communicate or argue with them. Too many neighbors start disputes without realizing that their own insurance companies have a different views.

#6) Prepare a complete home inventory. Plan ahead of time. It will save you time and money.

#7) Your home inventory may include more items than you think.
Did you know interior AND exterior and landscaping items might be covered by your policy? Check to see if your policy covers food and sundries. Add up how much it will cost to restock the pantry and freezer.

#8) Examine the damage before the adjuster arrives.
You know your home better than anyone. Point out cracks, or breakage, indicating structural or related damage.

#9) Get your own repair estimates from contractors.

#10) Keep a log of all communications regarding your claim.
Include written correspondence, phone calls, voice mails, and email messages with your insurance company, contractors.
Be vigilant in monitoring bills and receipts.

 

The reality of the insurance business is that companies exist to make money. They need to minimize the amount of claims it pays out; while, maximizing the premiums that it collects.

Hiring the best Fort Lauderdale property damage insurance claims lawyer you can find, will save you the headache later. We will competently and aggressively represent you in your homeowner property damage insurance claim, or commercial business insurance claim.

 

Local: 954.784.6310

Email: Jmaus@mauslawfirm.com

 

 

 

 

 

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At Cohen Law Group, It’s About Justice!

At Cohen Law Group, It’s About Justice!

  • Posted: Aug 30, 2022
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At Cohen Law Group, It’s About Justice!

It is more than a slogan, it is our firm’s mantra. The motto, developed by our founder Harvey V. Cohen was derived from our mission statement. We are aggressive, zealous advocates for our client’s rights. Our commitment to our clients is evident by our prompt reply to all phone calls and our 24 hour availability through our phone answering service.

Make sure your legal rights are protected by seeking the legal advice of an experienced Attorney. Contact Cohen Law Group.

Call us today at 407-890-0405 to see how we can help your legal needs. Or click here to fill out a free case evaluation.

 

Contractor Insurance Claim Dispute

Cohen Law Group stands up to these insurance carriers in valid contractor insurance claim disputes. Contractors have a right to be paid, just as the policy holder they are working for has a right to have a valid insurance claim paid.

Homeowner Insurance Claim Attorney

Have you had an insurance claim denied, partially paid, or reduced? If so, we may be able to help. Cohen Law Group stands up to these insurance carriers in valid homeowner insurance claim disputes.

Business Owners Insurance Claims Dispute

Cohen Law Group stands up to these insurance carriers in valid business/property owner insurance claim disputes. We possesses the experience and resources necessary to effectively guide you through each and every aspect of your business/property owner insurance claim dispute.

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WEBINAR: HOW TO INSURE AGAINST COVID-19by KBRLegal w/ Michael Bender, Esq and others

WEBINAR: HOW TO INSURE AGAINST COVID-19by KBRLegal w/ Michael Bender, Esq and others

  • Posted: Sep 14, 2020
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WEBINAR: HOW TO INSURE AGAINST COVID-19

09/16/2020  12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

 Webinar Event
https://kbrlegal.com/event-calendar/

Our own Michael Bender, Esq., B.C.S. will take part on this panel discussion moderated by David Cohen (Akam Management). Panelists also include Jon Moller from Brown & Brown Insurance and John Paul from Super Restoration.

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Has your Condo or HOA Sustained Property Damage? | SFPMA

Has your Condo or HOA Sustained Property Damage? | SFPMA

  • Posted: Sep 02, 2020
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Do you have Storm Damage in your Building?

SFPMA has a team of Legal Experts, adjusters, estimators and claim specialists for the benefit of the Condo and HOA’s who sustained damage from the storms and fire, water or mold.

With the know-how and experience to negotiate your claim our Entire Team works with One Goal:

“Get the maximum settlement for your damage claim!”

 

PROPERTY DAMAGE

  • Hurricane Storm Damage
  • Water Damage / Floods
  • Fire Damage
  • Mold Damage
  • Roof Damage and Leaks
  • Sinkholes & Earthquakes
  • Property Vandalism and Theft

 

WHAT WE PROVIDE CONDO & HOA’S

  • Property Inspections & Site Analysis
  • Review of your Insurance Policy
  • Damage Report Backing up the Claim
  • Loss Estimates Documentation
  • Negotiation and Settlement with Insurance Companies

 

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A Claim usually includes inspections, detailed estimates, more inspections, client reviews, negotiating with insurance companies, consulting with insurance company and most importantly, getting you your money as fast as possible.

http://CondoHoaAdjusters.com

Storm Damage Claims for your Condo and HOA Properties!

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WEBINAR: ASSOCIATION CONTINUITY & COVID-19 CONCERNS, REOPENING AMENITIES & MORE by Castle Group, Kaye Bender Rembaum and Plastridge Insurance

WEBINAR: ASSOCIATION CONTINUITY & COVID-19 CONCERNS, REOPENING AMENITIES & MORE by Castle Group, Kaye Bender Rembaum and Plastridge Insurance

  • Posted: May 01, 2020
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WEBINAR: ASSOCIATION CONTINUITY & COVID-19 CONCERNS, REOPENING AMENITIES & MORE

Date/Time  May 7, 2020
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

REGISTER HERE

Castle Group, Kaye Bender Rembaum and Plastridge Insurance invite you to a webinar:  “Association Continuity and Other COVID-19 Concerns”, Episode 2

You are invited to join episode 2 of “Association Continuity and other COVID-19 Concerns” with a special focus on re-opening community amenities and more. Panelists include:
  • Craig Vaughan, Castle Group – President;
  • Michael S . Bender & Jeffrey A. Rembaum, Kaye Bender Rembaum, Board Certified in Condominium and Planned Development Law
  • Brendan T. Lynch, AIP AAI, Plastridge Insurance Agency, President
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