Hurricane, Storm & Flood Claim Lawyers

Wind, hurricane, nor'easter, fallen-tree and flood claims across New York State.

Storm claims in New York often turn on one question: was it wind or water? We help policyholders sort out what each policy covers, challenge wind-versus-flood denials and hurricane deductible errors, and seek the full cost of storm repairs.

Long Island storms do not follow policy language. A single hurricane or nor'easter can tear off shingles, drop a tree through a roof, push water through windows and flood a lower level, all in one night. In New York, each of those may fall under a different coverage, deductible or policy.

Why Storm Claims Get Denied or Underpaid

Wind damage blamed on excluded flood or storm surge
Roof damage called old or wear and tear instead of storm-related
Hurricane or named-storm deductibles calculated incorrectly
Tree and debris-removal limits applied too narrowly
Patch repairs offered where full replacement is needed
Disputes between a homeowners carrier and a flood carrier

How We Help Homeowners

Separate wind, rain, surge and flood damage with photos, weather data and inspections
Check that the right deductible was applied, and calculated correctly
Coordinate homeowners and flood claims so neither carrier shifts the loss to the other
Press for full roof, siding and window replacement where repairs will not match
Recover tree removal, debris removal and temporary repair costs
Negotiate with the carrier, and use appraisal where the amount is in dispute

What to Do Next

Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage and keep the receipts
Photograph the damage, including roofs, trees and water lines
Report the claim to every carrier that may be involved
Keep a log of calls with adjusters
Get your own estimate before accepting the insurer's
Call for a free claim review

Hurricane & Storm Damage FAQs

What is the difference between wind damage and flood damage?

Homeowners policies generally cover wind and wind-driven rain that enters through an opening the storm created, while flood policies cover rising water that inundates the property. Many storms cause both, and the evidence of what caused each part of the damage determines which policy pays.

How does a hurricane deductible work?

Some New York policies apply a hurricane or named-storm deductible, often a percentage of the dwelling limit, when specific conditions are met. Insurers sometimes apply it when the conditions were not met, or calculate it incorrectly. It is worth checking.

Is a fallen tree covered?

A tree that falls on your house, garage or another covered structure is usually covered, along with removal of the tree from the structure. Separate limits often apply to debris removal and to trees that fall without hitting a structure.

Can I have a homeowners claim and a flood claim for the same storm?

Yes, and many Long Island storm losses involve both. The two claims need to be coordinated so that each carrier pays its share and neither one shifts damage to the other policy.

How soon do I need to report storm damage?

As soon as possible. Most policies require prompt notice, and some damage, like roof leaks, gets worse over time. Late notice is a common reason insurers give for denying storm claims.

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