On June 24, 2012 Tropical Storm Debby passed over the central State of Florida causing significant flood damage to this commercial shopping center’s two buildings located in Port Richey, FL.
Immediately following the loss, the insured immediately reported the claims to the insurance company covering the property and hired Public Adjuster, Rick Tutwiler to assist with the claims process. The property owner had previously endured the claims process following damaged caused by Hurricane Wilma and Hurricane Georges and knew that handling the claim on his own would simply be an uphill battle that could last for years. In addition, he had multiple businesses that required his full attention.
Mr. Tutwiler quickly took control of the claim and worked diligently to prepare all the documentation necessary to substantiate the damage and repair costs necessary to support the claim. Most importantly, Mr. Tutwiler made sure the insured was in full compliance with his flood policy terms and conditions.
Unfortunately, the insurance company sent out an adjuster who was not so enthusiastic to expedite the claim since he also had been assigned multiple other claims which required his attention.
Given the size and magnitude of the flood damage, time was of the essence as the insured was losing significant rental income, which the Standard Flood Insurance Policy does not cover.
Mr. Tutwiler did his best to expedite the claim and a payment was made in the amount of $472,508. Ultimately, the insured was able to hire a qualified contractor who restored the buildings back to its pre-loss condition. The insured was able to move his tenants back in to resume normal business operations.