On October 29, 2012 Super Storm Sandy abruptly came ashore impacting many states along the Northeastern coast causing significant damage to many commercial, industrial, and residential properties.
Margarita Villas, a specialty lodging resort located in the scenic beachfront community of Kismet on Fire Island sustained both wind and water damage as a result of Sandy.
Fire Island is very unique in that it is only accessible by Ferry transportation unless you are one of the lucky few who have a resident pass that will let you travel over the bridge. However, Sandy washed out many of the roads and mountains of sand required 4-wheel drive.
Because of the access restrictions, many insurance adjusters and restoration contractors were reluctant to schedule inspections, leaving this community weeks behind in the recovery process. The thought of no car transportation and adjusters walking from site to site with their ladders in freezing cold temperatures is not something one wants to endure.
When Tutwiler & Associates was called to help,
Public Adjuster Rick Tutwiler and his team was quick to respond. Mr. Tutwiler made a thorough inspection of the property and documented all wind and flood related damages.
Mr. Tutwiler was able to work with the insurance company’s flood adjuster and successfully negotiated a settlement in the amount of $333,999 which included replacement of all the electrical wiring in the crawlspace throughout the property, replacement of the sub-floor, floors, interior finishes, restaurant equipment, liquor, and vending machines.
With regard to the windstorm damage, the wind insurance carrier has taken the position that no wind damage had occurred. Tutwiler is now supporting the claim with further third party documentation showing that there was obvious wind damage to the insured property and surrounding properties. While this portion of the claim is still pending, a fair and positive settlement is being pursued.