Usually, you have to pay your mortgage even if your house is destroyed in a hurricane in Louisiana. Even though your home is gone, your obligation to your lender is not. This is due in part because your mortgage is tied not only to your home but also to the property it rests on.
The good news is that if you have homeowner’s insurance, this could cover certain losses. Yet, while many people purchase homeowner’s insurance as a safety net, not all insurers act in good faith.
You Likely Still Have to Pay Your Mortgage Even If Your Home Is Destroyed
The unfortunate reality is that you’ll likely still have to pay your mortgage even if your home is destroyed, and you are misplaced. This likely means that, on top of securing new housing, you still have to pay your mortgage.
This situation can lead to significant financial hardship. While the thought of managing both mortgage and rent expenses can seem overwhelming, your insurance coverage could help. With the appropriate level of coverage, your policy might provide the benefits you need to make mortgage payments and even repair your home.
For a free legal consultation 800-747-3733
When Insurance Proceeds Are Not Enough
For most people who lose a home in a hurricane, insurance coverage is their saving grace. From flood insurance to homeowner’s coverage, these policies could cover mortgage payments and repairs alike.
Yet, this doesn’t mean getting the coverage you need will be easy. For instance, the insurance company may argue that you don’t have coverage (even if you do). It might even say that your policy expired, despite this not being true.
When that happens, you have the right to partner with a lawyer. They can manage all communications with the insurance company and fight for what you need.
What Should I Do If My Home Is Destroyed in a Louisiana Hurricane?
You should consider these measures in the aftermath of a hurricane destroying your home:
Contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
FEMA aims to help those who suffer losses in hurricanes. The organization offers relocation services, financial assistance, and even repairs. FEMA has many offices throughout Louisiana. You can also contact the organization via phone or email.
Itemize Your Losses
It’s hard having to go through your home after it’s been destroyed. However, this is critical to securing what you need. Take pictures of the following:
- Flood damage
- Destroyed furniture or personal belongings
- Any harm to your vehicle
- Exposed power lines
- Crumbling drywall
- Mold
It also helps to have pictures of your home before the hurricane. That way, you can present a compelling claim to the insurance company.
Notify Your Homeowner’s Insurance Carrier
Insurance companies want prompt notification when it comes to filing claims. Your insurance company will likely have its own deadlines for accepting claims. However, prompt notification also prevents the claims adjuster from saying:
- You caused the damage – not the hurricane.
- You don’t have coverage because you waited too long to file.
- You deserve less than you’re entitled to receive.
Consider Partnering with a Hurricane Damage Claims Lawyer
If the insurance company gives you a hard time after filing your claim, share your story with a lawyer. They’ll have your best interests at heart when pursuing what you need. They will:
- File your insurance claim. This involves filling out necessary paperwork, documenting your losses, and managing communications with the claims adjuster.
- Evaluate your insurance policy. Don’t believe everything the claims adjuster tells you. After all, they’re trying to save their employer money. Your lawyer will review your insurance policy and explain what you’re entitled to receive.
- Manage your case on a contingency-fee basis. Given your financial situation, you might worry about affording a lawyer. Yet, our law firm manages hurricane damage claims on a contingency-fee basis. You don’t pay us directly for our help. Our attorney’s fees come from your insurance settlement.
You Could Recover Damages Through a Third-Party Lawsuit
Depending on your situation, you could file a lawsuit to recover what you need. For instance, suppose a general contractor did shoddy repairs on your house, which contributed to your home’s destruction.
Here, you could sue the general contractor for the cost of repairs to your home. This could give you an additional option beyond filing an insurance claim.
Talk to an Attorney About Your Mortgage After a Hurricane
Dealing with your mortgage is only one of the things that must happen if your home is destroyed in a hurricane. In addition to having to pay the mortgage after your house is destroyed in a Louisiana Hurricane, there are countless expenses that can come with the loss of your home. Insurance benefits typically play a big part in covering those losses.
If you are living with the aftermath of a hurricane, you have the right to seek help when it comes to dealing with insurance companies. The Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine is ready to help you in this difficult time. Call 1-800-747-3733 for a free consultation.
