WIND & HURRICANE DAMAGE

What Homeowners Should Know

Windstorms and hurricanes are some of the most destructive natural events, and they often leave behind far more damage than you first see.

The force of high winds can tear off roofs, break windows, and scatter debris. Hurricanes add another layer, bringing heavy rain and flooding into your property. Even if your home looks fine from the outside, hidden damage can compromise your safety and cost thousands if not handled correctly.

What Causes Wind & Hurricane Damage

High-Velocity Winds

Hurricane-force winds can exceed 100 miles per hour, creating uplift pressure that rips shingles, tiles, and even entire roof sections from buildings. As the wind pushes against walls and corners, it weakens structural joints and fasteners.

Wind-Borne Debris

Flying branches, signs, and other debris act like missiles, breaking windows, puncturing siding, and damaging vehicles and outdoor structures. Once an opening is created, wind and rain pour in, increasing interior destruction.

Pressure Changes and Uplift

As wind flows over and around a building, it creates unequal air pressure — suction above the roof and pressure inside the house. This imbalance can cause roofs to lift off and walls to buckle outward, even without direct impact.

Heavy Rain and Water Intrusion

Hurricanes bring torrential rainfall that seeps through cracked roofs, broken seals, or damaged siding. Once water enters, it spreads into insulation, drywall, and flooring, leading to mold, rot, and hidden structural decay.

Tornado Spin-Offs and Microbursts

Large storms can produce tornadoes or violent downdrafts, intensifying local damage with sudden bursts of destructive wind that hit with little or no warning.

Storm Surge and Flooding

In coastal areas, hurricanes can push seawater inland, causing flooding and foundation erosion. Saltwater also corrodes metal components, wiring, and HVAC systems — creating long-term safety risks.

Why Wind & Hurricane Damage Is So Dangerous

Structural Weakness & Roof Damage

Strong winds can lift shingles, rip off roof sections, and loosen nails or fasteners. Even small openings allow rainwater to penetrate, leading to interior leaks and hidden rot. Once a roof’s seal is broken, the next storm can cause even greater destruction.

Water Intrusion After the Storm

Hurricanes rarely bring wind alone — they bring driving rain and flooding. Once water enters through damaged roofing, siding, or windows, it spreads through insulation, drywall, and floors, leading to mold, decay, and structural weakening long after the storm has passed.

Flying Debris & Impact Damage

High winds turn debris into projectiles that can shatter windows, dent walls, and puncture roofs. These impacts often cause secondary water damage or hidden cracks that grow over time, threatening the building’s integrity.

Mold Growth & Air Quality Hazards

Moisture trapped behind walls or under flooring quickly breeds mold and mildew, which release spores that contaminate your home’s air. Without professional remediation, this can lead to persistent health issues and costly repairs.

Hidden Electrical & Plumbing Issues

Storm forces and water intrusion can damage wiring, outlets, and pipes within walls — creating shock hazards, leaks, and future fire risks. These problems often remain unnoticed until months later when serious failures occur.

Insurance Complications

Insurance companies often claim that hurricane or wind damage was caused by “pre-existing conditions” or poor maintenance, reducing or denying coverage. They may pay for visible roof damage but ignore interior or structural losses. A public adjuster ensures every affected area is documented and every hidden loss is included in your settlement.

How Insurance Companies Respond?

Quick Inspections, Minimal Evaluation

Insurance adjusters often perform brief inspections focused only on visible damage. They may overlook hidden structural issues, moisture behind walls, or long-term effects that develop after the initial event.

Downplaying the Cause of Damage

It’s common for insurers to reclassify losses to reduce coverage.Water damage might be labeled “maintenance-related.” Mold may be called “secondary damage.” Storm damage might be blamed on “wear and tear.” These redefinitions help them minimize or deny payouts.

Low Settlement Offers

Even when claims are approved, initial settlement checks are often far below the true repair cost. Insurers expect homeowners to accept the first offer without question — leaving many properties only partially restored.

Delays and Red Tape

Insurance companies may request repeated paperwork, send multiple adjusters, or drag out the process — hoping you’ll give up or settle for less.

Denied or Closed Claims

Many policyholders are told their claim is “not covered” or their file is closed after a partial payment. What most homeowners don’t realize is that many of these claims can be reopened if new evidence or professional documentation is provided by a licensed public adjuster.

How Jerry E. Kotler Assoc., Inc. Helps You

Comprehensive Inspection

He checks the entire structure, from roof to foundation.

Documentation

Photos, reports, and cost estimates that reflect the full scope of damage.

Negotiation

He handles the back-and-forth with the insurer, pushing for what you’re owed.

Fair Settlement

He fights for the maximum payout to restore your home properly, not just patch it up.

👉 “Wind and hurricane damage can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Jerry Kotler’s job is to make sure your insurance company fully recognizes the impact of the storm and pays you what it takes to bring your property back to safe, livable condition.”