If you are a property owner, you know how much work it takes to maintain a property. Unfortunately, even property owners who take steps to protect their property from damages may not be able to prevent another person or group of people from vandalizing their property, negligently or intentionally. Property damage caused by vandalism may include:
- Broken windows and doors.
- Fire damage.
- Broken pipes.
- Damage to electrical wires.
- Damage to equipment.
- Graffiti.
Repairing vandalized property in Florida can be extremely costly. Fortunately, many homeowners’ and commercial property insurance policies cover damages caused by vandalism and theft.
What should I do if my property was vandalized?
If your property has been damaged by vandals, you should immediately take photos and document any and all damages you see and file a police report. it is also important that you file a claim with your insurer as soon as possible after the incident.
Once you have filed your insurance claim, the insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the property and the damages sustained. Based on the adjuster’s inspection report and the information you provided, the insurer will decide whether to pay to cover your repairs.
It is common for insurance companies to deny coverage, or undervalue a claim based on vandalism. They might deny your claim by stating that vandalism coverage is excluded under your policy or that you failed to provide timely and accurate information.
If your insurer fails to pay you what you are owed, an insurance litigation attorney can help handle the dispute with your insurer. If you and your insurer are unable to reach a settlement, you may be able to file a lawsuit against your insurer.