Hurricane Ian – Two Years Later: Time is Running Out for Victims to File Claims

As Hurricane Helene approaches, we hope your family stays safe and that your property remains undamaged. Even if Helene doesn’t make landfall in your area, regions outside the forecast cone could still experience strong winds, embedded tornados, heavy rain, and storm surge. It’s important to secure your property and stay tuned to local advisories.

However, while Helene grabs attention, Floridians affected by Hurricane Ian face another urgent concern—time is running out to file or reopen claims for damages from this devastating storm.

Final Call: Hurricane Ian Claims Deadline Approaching

Hurricane Ian made landfall in Florida as a powerful Category 4 storm on September 28, 2022. As we mark the two-year anniversary, it’s crucial for policyholders to remember that the deadline to file or reopen claims related to Ian is rapidly approaching. The final day to submit a Hurricane Ian claim is September 28, 2024. After this date, no new or reopened claims can be filed, meaning you may lose your right to recover compensation for property damages caused by Ian.

The Importance of Consulting a Licensed Public Insurance Adjuster

If you’re still battling your insurance company over disputed claims or believe you have not been adequately compensated, you are not alone. As of April 22, 2024, data from the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) shows that 93.7% of Hurricane Ian claims have been closed. However, many of these closures include claims that were denied or underpaid, leaving homeowners without sufficient funds to repair their properties.

This is where working with a licensed public insurance adjuster can make all the difference.

A public insurance adjuster words on behalf of the policyholder—not the insurance company—to help you navigate the complex claims process and ensure you receive a fair settlement. With their expertise, they can evaluate your claim, negotiate with the insurance company, and, when necessary, recommend alternative paths like the appraisal process or mediation to resolve disputes.

If you believe your claim was unjustly denied or underpaid, now is the time to consult a licensed adjuster who can help reopen your case and secure the compensation you deserve before the September 28 filing deadline.

Appraisal and Mediation: Resolving Disputed Claims

For homeowners facing disputed or undervalued claims, two options can expedite resolution: appraisal and mediation.

• Appraisal: This process involves both parties selecting their own independent appraisers to determine the value of the claim. If the appraisers disagree, an impartial umpire is brought in to make the final decision. Appraisal is an effective way to resolve disagreements over the amount of the loss and can often lead to a faster settlement without going to court.
• Mediation: Mediation allows policyholders and insurance companies to work with a neutral third party to find a middle ground. This process is non-binding, meaning that either party can walk away, but it provides an opportunity for both sides to discuss the claim and potentially reach an agreement without further delays.

Both of these methods can offer quicker alternatives to litigation and are worth considering for those still struggling to resolve their claims.

Supplemental Claims Deadline in 2025

In addition to the two-year deadline for filing new or reopened claims, policyholders also have the opportunity to file supplemental claims. If your initial payout didn’t fully cover all your damages or if additional damages have surfaced since the original claim, you can file a supplemental claim until September 28, 2025.

A Long Road to Recovery

Many homeowners are still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. As one policyholder put it, "The storm itself was just the beginning. It’s the battle afterward—fighting to get your house back together and dealing with insurance companies—that really wears you down." If you’re one of the many still facing unresolved damage claims, don’t give up. Now is the time to consult with a professional who can help you navigate this challenging process and ensure you meet the upcoming deadlines.

The Bottom Line

With just days left before the two-year filing window closes, this is a final call to all property owners affected by Hurricane Ian: don’t wait any longer. Make sure you protect your right to the compensation you’re owed by submitting your claim by September 28, 2024. Missing this date could mean forfeiting any opportunity for financial recovery from one of the most destructive storms in Florida’s history.

As we prepare for future storms like Helene, this situation underscores the importance of acting swiftly on property damage claims. If you are unsure of your rights or need assistance in navigating your claim, consider working with a licensed public insurance adjuster to ensure that your claim is handled fairly and that you receive the settlement you deserve.

Stay safe, stay informed, and take the necessary steps to ensure your claim is filed on time before it’s too late. If you have questions regarding Hurricane Debby or require professional assistance preparing your property insurance claim visit our website or contact us to submit a question to one of our public adjuster insurance claim experts.