Palm trees bending in strong winds during a hurricane with rain-soaked ground and low visibility.

Two hurricanes hit Florida at the end of September and the beginning of October. Hurricane Helene caused $47.5 billion in property losses, which is devastating for Floridians. Hurricane Milton destroyed areas in west and central Florida, leaving 2.2 million people without power. Hurricane Milton also caused 14 deaths and damages to Floridans' homes. However, this hurricane season can be challenging for many Floridians, so this blog will provide important information after Hurricane Milton. 

Documents all of the Damages caused by a Hurricane

First, check your property for any damage caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. You will have to walk around your homes and look for any damages caused by Hurricane Milton. This will include roof damage and water leaking through the ceilings, which is important to document. 

Document the damages by taking photos and videos. This will be essential when you file your insurance claim, so try to take every angle of the damage. Also, keep any receipts you have, including materials you bought to repair any property damage, so that you can report your insurance claim. Be detailed when contacting your insurance company about your damaged property. 

If there are any repairs you may need to perform temporarily, such as patching your roof, make sure you keep all receipts for the materials that you bought and take pictures of the temporary repairs. 

Image of a handshake overlaying a signed insurance contract with a pen placed on top.

When you claim with your Insurance Company

The process of filing a claim after Hurricane Helene and Milton can be very overwhelming. However, once you find out that there has been damage to your property, you should contact your insurance company. Don't leave out any details of the items that have been damaged when you provide them with the information. 

Make sure you know what your insurance policy covers to save time and not deal with problems later. Also, make sure that you have documentation of proof to show to the insurance adjuster when they come by your house to inspect. It’s a good idea to be there during the inspection so you can point out any damage they might not notice.

Avoid getting scam

During certain events when people are vulnerable, scammers usually offer high-priced repairs. To avoid this, hire a licensed contractor. 

However, be careful when you pay in advance to a fraudulent contractor because an actual contractor will ask for a deposit and a total payment after the job is done. If you suspect a scam, make sure you report it.

How can you Prepare for a Hurricane?

The following steps should be followed when preparing for a hurricane in Florida: 

  1. Insurance Policy: Review your insurance policy to see if there is damage to your home that your company could cover. 
  2. Document everything: Make sure that you record videos and take photos of the damages. 
  3. Emergency plan: Make sure you have canned food and water, 
  4. Contact us: Insurance law can be challenging to understand, but contacting us will guide you through your options. 

If you would like to know more about how to prepare for future hurricanes, please visit Ready.gov

Get help from FEMA 

You could consider reaching out to FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), if you don’t have insurance or if your insurance company does not cover the damages on your property. They offer assistance to help cover repairs and other essentials you might need after Hurricanes Milton and Helene. Please check out disaster assistance to find out more information about their offerings that they have. 

Also, the state of Florida and local governments can be able to provide additional help. You can check out the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s website, they have a lot of information on emergency services and other helpful resources that might help you after Hurricane Helene. 

In the image, Rene Delombard (left), Louis Gonzalez (center), and Andrew Vargas (right) are the partners at Vargas, Gonzalez, Delombard, LLP

Why Contact Us? 

It is common to get your insurance claim denied or underpaid when you contact your insurance company. If you are experiencing your claim being denied or believing you are not getting enough money. Reach out to our firm, which has years of experience handling hurricane claims and is here to help you. You can contact us at Vargas Gonzalez Delombard LLP for a free consultation.

Conclusion

Knowing that your property is damaged, recovering from Hurricane Helene and Milton does take a while, but it doesn't have to be stressful. Our team can provide you with advice and assistance on protecting your home and finances when you properly document the damage, file your insurance claim, and consult with us. Nevertheless, beware of scammers and review your insurance to ensure you are prepared for future hurricanes.

If you need help with your insurance claim or legal advice, don’t hesitate to contact us at Vargas Gonzalez Delombard LLP. We can count on us to get you the compensation you deserve and protect your home. 



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Client Stories Real People, Real Results

This firm is highly recommended. Through this firm I was victorious against Citizens Property Insurance for a claim they refused to pay for. Andrew Vargas is a great attorney and he will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

- P.S.

Tuve una representación excelente con respecto a un reclamo al seguro , estuvieron trabajando bien fuerte contra el seguro de mi casa que se negaba a pagar el reclamo que presenté por la rotura de mi baño. Estoy muy satisfecha con la eficacia y el profesionalismo de ése equipo de abogados. Gracias a todos los que trabajaron fuerte para lograr ganar mi caso, especialmente al abogado George Zeckler y al asistente Junior, Dios los bendiga siempre. Los recomiendo 100 %.

- L.G.

Mr. Vargas handled our insurance claim relating to Hurricane Ian. He was professional and the outcome was to our complete satisfaction. We highly recommend using his law firm!

- N.W.

George J. Zeckler, Esq. was amazing! I’m very appreciative of the work he did on my behalf. He is professional and committed to getting the best results. He was very helpful in closing my case and delivering a great outcome. Thank you very much George for finally closing my case. I want to also thank you for your dedication and communication every step of the way. You made a big difference and I appreciate you very much. Andrew, thank you for assigning my case to George. He genuinely made a difference. Thank you again. 

- P.L.

Words cannot express the absolute dedication commitment and determination which Vargas, Gonzalez and Delombard have provided, with regards to my case. I am thrilled beyond belief for the resolution and settlement allocated. They alleviated my worries and doubts, and kept me abreast the entire time; all the while maintaining a positive outlook and confidence. Thank you for a job well done !!!! I will certainly refer your Law Firm to my friends and family regarding any legal matter!!! 

- N.B.

Awesome lawyers and awesome people. Really felt like family there. They didn’t quit fighting for me until I got what I was owed. Thanks guys!!

- J.P.B.

Louis Gonzalez and his team were phenomenal. After our insurance company attempted to deny coverage for mold damage, Luis and his team agreed to take our case — he was efficient, professional, timely and successful! We ended up winning the case, our entire mold remediation costs more than covered. We will definitely be reaching out to Luis again for any future legal concerns! Thank you so much again!!

- K.L.

Great people. Attorney Louis Gonzalez is responsive trustworthy and hardworking. Highly recommend him and his partners

- L.O.

Top notch legal team! Louis Gonzalez & his firm are extremely professional, knowledgeable & most importantly cared about our situation fighting every step of the way to get results. . I am so grateful that they are on my side! I highly recommend them!

- M.E.

What a great experience dealing with Louis Gonzalez and this talented team of lawyers. Their knowledge and expertise gave us confidence as we navigated a very difficult situation with our house and the insurance company. They made us feel like we were their top priority throughout the entire process and that they really cared about our family. If you want a firm you can trust to get you the results you need, there is no one else I would recommend.

- R.L.

I had the pleasure of working with this staff and I cannot recommend them highly enough. From start to finish, the team was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and responsive. They took the time to understand my case and walked me through every step of the process. Their attention to detail and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident from day one.

- M.G.

I would highly recommend using this law firm. The staff was knowledgeable with our case and so helpful. Our attorney, Louis Gonzalez, helped us receive the full payment of our claim quickly.

- V.G.

Very professional and thorough staff and attorneys. My attorney made my wife and I feel comfortable that they were doing everything possible to WIN our case!

- R.P.

I can say that Mr. Andrew is a professional and dedicated attorney. He made the process smoothless, and also his team is awesome.

- D.D.

Thank you to George J. Zeckler! He did an exceptional job for my parents, Julio & Miriam, They are very appreciative that you took our case and the results received are incredible. 💯 I recommend this law firm, especially George. Thank you. 🙏

- J.S.

So grateful to know VGD have our backs! My best defense against insurance companies trying to avoid their responsibilities. Thank you Louis and team for all you have done!

- T.B.

Words cannot express my gratitude for the dedication and patience of Vargas Gonzales. 

- A.E.

Exceptional service, great reward. Highly recommend in case of eventuality.

- A.K.

It was a great experience dealing with Louis Gonzalez and his team. They were always very helpful and very friendly. Thank you for the great service. Highly recommend this team.

- R.L.

Excelente Bufete, serios, responsables, no mienten y sumamente eficientes, en especial el Abogado George Zeckler, quien se encargo de mi caso, contra un Seguro de Vivienda agresivo, pero, mi abogado supo ponerlos en su sitio y los convenció de ser responsables. Gracias Sr. George Zeckler...buen trabajo .

- L.S.

Awesome people and great representation of me and my case. Highly recommend entire firm! True professionals and would use them again.

- B.J.

Exquisito trato, muy profesionales. Los recomiendo con entera confianza.

- A.D.

When the insurance company denied the claim to the adjuster, I thought that everything was lost, that there was no possibility, then they recommended Vargas Gonzalez Delombard, LLP to me and with them a hope of being able to resolve my claim and so it was, they took my case and with patience and efficiency, the inspections, the zoom meetings and the interviews with the very professional Vargas lawyers arrived, they took the case until they won it and finally, what at first seemed to have no solution was achieved. Very grateful to the law firm Vargas Gonzalez Delombard, LLP and especially to Michael Ortiz.

- O.B.

The best lawyers! Kind, and they worry about my issues. Professional, patient and caring for your needs. Thank you so much!

- G.N.

Son buenisimo, gracias a ellos resolví mi problema.

- B.G.

I highly recommend Vargas González Delombard lawyers team. They are very knowledgeable and professional. 

- E.R.G.

Amazing attorneys, great staff and easy to work with.

- P.P.

I reached out to this firm for help with a frustrating solar issue, and they did an amazing job! From the beginning, they listened to my concerns with respect and took the time to truly understand my situation. Their professionalism, communication, and follow-through made a stressful situation much more manageable. I’m incredibly grateful for their support — they got the job done and gave me peace of mind. Highly recommended!

- M.A.

We were very pleased with the consideration and attention given to us. We struggled getting anywhere reasonable with the insurance company. With claims flying around everywhere after these natural disaster's George did not forget us and got us a settlement much more in line with the reality of our situation. Strongly recommend this firm!!!

- J.R.

These guys handled my case against my insurance company, who refused to pay my roof claim. They did a great job of communicating with me how the process was going to go and ultimately were able to get me a fair settlement before going to litigation. Thank you so much!!

- J.D.

Si quieres que te representen y peleen por ti con uñas y dientes, este es el hombre!

- D.D.

Excellent work and dedication from everyone. Thank you very much.

- J.S.

They were really great to work with. I highly recommend them.

- C.B.

I had an excellent experience with Vargas Law Firm. From the very beginning they were professional, honest, and truly dedicated to helping me. They took the time to explain every step of the process and always made sure I understood what was happening with my case. Their communication was great — they returned my calls quickly and kept me updated without me having to ask. What I appreciated most was how they treated me with respect and genuine care. I never felt like ‘just another client.’ They fought hard for me and achieved a result better than I expected. I’m very grateful for all their hard work. If you’re looking for a law firm that is knowledgeable, trustworthy, and truly committed to your case, I highly recommend Vargas Law Firm. Thank you! 

- M.C.

They were awesome! My homeowners insurance just refused to deal with me even after getting a public adjuster. Mr. Vargas talked me through it did the leg work and walked me through mediation to a resolution I could be happy with. Thank you to all who worked on my case and happy holiday! We can finally get our home fixed!!!

- J.J.

I had excellent experience with this law firm. We had solar panels installed on our roof, and the solar company's faulty installation caused leaks in multiple areas, eventually forcing us to replace the entire roof. Even then, the company refused to accept any responsibility. I sought legal counsel, and Attorney Gonzalez promptly responded to my inquiry. He reviewed all documents and arranged expert witnesses. He and Attorney Vargas anticipated the defendant’s tactics, and when the solar company brought forward weak excuses during arbitration, they were fully prepared to counter them. After the arbitration, Attorney Ruiz submitted a well-reasoned brief that further strengthened my case. I sincerely appreciate the expertise and dedication of Attorneys Gonzalez, Vargas, and Ruiz in resolving this matter. I’d also like to thank Jennifer, the paralegal, for coordinating communication throughout this long process. Holding the solar company accountable for the damage they caused was a lengthy and challenging journey. The three attorneys I worked with were consistently thoughtful, thorough, and strategic in preparing my case. They’re a 10 out of 10 in my book, and I’d recommend them to anyone needing legal assistance!

- C.D.

I came to the firm because they were highly recommended to me, and they totally lived up to the hype. I am so relieved to finally have my case settled, and George was a lifesaver getting this across the finish line. He is super down to earth and made a stressful process feel way more manageable by keeping me in the loop the whole time. If you need an attorney who is both an expert and actually easy to talk to, George is definitely your guy. So glad it is over and so happy I had this team in my corner!

- M.M.

Our roof was damaged during Milton and he was phenomenal. We appreciate him so much for all of the detailed work that went into this settlement. You won’t be disappointed.

- G.S.

George Zeckler was my attorney and he did a great job keeping me informed and coaching me in what I needed to know. Highly recommend him and this firm!

- M.D.

Superb firm! I worked with George Zeckler on a home insurance claim (Sept. 2025) that the insurance company just dismissed out of hand. The company did not even send their adjuster to see the damage. George was great, keeping me informed each step of the way, during the claim process. This was not the 1st time I had an insurance claim problem that Vargas et al helped me with very satisfactory results. Bottom line you can't go wrong with them on your side.

- R.D.

Recomendaciones, buen trabajo traban duro por ti! 

- R.G.

Un buen equipo, en realidad no fue muy largo el proceso y al final buenos resultados. Gracias!

- C.M.

Excellent experience with Vargas Gonzalez Delombard, LLP in Orlando. Attorney Rene Delombard was very professional and guided me through every step, especially in a difficult case where Citizens kept denying everything. Thanks to his persistence, I was able to receive a fair settlement. A big thank you as well to Jenniffer Tijerino for her quick responses and support throughout the process. The entire team was knowledgeable, responsive, and easy to work with. I will highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal help.

- S.G.

I am extremely satisfied with the representation I received from Vargas Gonzalez LLP. The attorneys and staff were professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated throughout my insurance claim dispute. From the beginning, they handled my case with care, kept me informed, and provided clear guidance every step of the way. Vargas Gonzalez LLP diligently pursued my claim against the insurance company and worked tirelessly to protect my interests. Their preparation, negotiation skills, and strong advocacy ultimately led to a successful mediation and a fair settlement of my case. I am grateful for their hard work and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Vargas Gonzalez LLP to anyone seeking experienced, responsive, and effective legal representation for an insurance claim dispute.

- Z.E.

My experience with Vargas Gonzalez Delombard was excellent.

- A.D.

George J. Zeckler, Esq. Was amazing! I’m very appreciative of the work he did on my behalf. He is professional and committed to getting the best results. He was very helpful in closing my case and delivering a great outcome. Thank you very much George for finally closing my case. I want to also thank you for your dedication and communication every step of the way. You made a big difference, and I appreciate you very much. Andrew, thank you for assigning my case to George. He genuinely made a difference. Thank you again.

- P.L.

Words cannot express the absolute dedication, commitment and determination which Vargas, González and Delombard have provided, with regards to my case. I am thrilled beyond belief for the resolution and settlement allocated. They alleviated my worries and doubts and kept me abreast the entire time; all the while maintaining a positive outlook and confidence. Thank you for a job well done !!!! I will certainly refer your Law Firm to my friends and family regarding any legal matter!!!

- N.B

My experience with Vargas Gonzalez Delombard was excellent! Thank you very much for a job well done. To God be the glory. I'm grateful to you.

- F.J.

Although your team is still working on my claim, I have been kept up to date on everything. Maisel has been incredible, and Rene is very knowledgeable and understanding of my situation. I am truly happy that this team was recommended to me, and I am confident that they will be successful in resolving my claim soon.

- L.P.
Their email communication is excellent, always providing updates on the status of my case in a highly professional manner.
- A.M.

I'd give Vargas, Gonzalez, Delombard five stars! The outcome of my insurance claim case was positive and my experience with them was excellent. I highly recommend Vargas, Gonzalez, Delombard for their competitive and excellent legal services. They are great lawyers, and working with them was definitely worth it!

- H.R.

My experience with Vargas, Gonzalez, Delombard was great. A public adjuster referred me to Rene Delomard, who is a professional and courteous lawyer. I would highly recommend Rene Delombard to anyone.

- L.A.

I recommend Vargas, Gonzalez, Delombard to my friends and family. They are fighting for my case for damage to my home from the hurricane. Although these types of cases can be delayed, you’ll have to be patient

- V.S.

Amazing lawyers. Always answered the phone and called me back when I had a question. They were able to get me almost twice as much money as the insurance company was going to pay! Highly recommend them. My friends have used them also, and they only have great things to say.

- J.S.

This firm has done an amazing job with my case. I am thankful to have found them. They kept me up to date with the progress of the case and worked towards getting me the best deal possible. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone looking for a trusted law firm.

- J.J.

This law firm team is very professional and extremely responsive. In addition, they care about their clients. They resolved my case extremely fast and I was able to get my settlement and repair my home. Thank you so much! Forever grateful!!

- S.F.

My parents were represented by attorney Joseph Glace who works for this firm and we were more than pleased with the service we received. It was an insurance claim for damage to our house and this excellent lawyer handled the case very professionally and in the end we obtained the insurance payment! Highly recommended, he is a magnificent professional!

- R.C.

I would definitely recommend this attorney office for any type of legal counsel, their primary focus is helping people with disputes for property damage like water, fire and hurricane insurance claims. If you have any type of insurance claim on your home, I would highly suggest sitting down with someone from this office, they will advise you of the steps that are necessary to ensure you are properly compensated by your insurance company and are able to make the repairs to your home.

- C.D.

The staff is absolutely wonderful! Everyone was so friendly and very helpful! I will definitely bring all my business here! Thank you for everything!

- B.B.

Louis and his team are lifesavers! We had a company that was trying to avoid payment, with one email from Louis we had an agreement for the company to pay! I can’t recommend him enough!

- Anonymous

Thank God, my family and I are more than grateful that we found some lawyers who fight and defend the values ​​of their clients. I personally recommend them, thank you Louis Gonzalez.

- C.V.

Excellent work, I am very pleased with the work done. I recommend them to my family and friends as lawyers who fight for clients' rights.

- J.M.

I absolutely love this place! They treat you like family. Please if you need an attorney give them a call. Thank you Louis and your wonderful team . I honestly can’t say enough about them.

- M.T.

Louis and his staff were recommended to me and it has been a pleasure working with everyone. The staff are super nice and professional, very thankful to have their help settling my claim.

- P.T.

Attorney Louis Gonzalez went above and beyond to help me reach a fair settlement on my insurance claim. I want to thank him personally for his hard work and dedication to my claim. My many questions were promptly answered. His personal attention put me at ease and he was a pleasure to work with. He helped me put a very stressful situation behind me and I will be forever grateful. I would highly recommend Attorney Louis Gonzalez.

- V.D.

Thank you Attorney Gonzalez for the supporting role. You helped me and my family in settling my claim. We would highly recommend you to our friends and family.

- A.M.

The team of lawyers are very professional, and the staff answered all my questions and concerns, I am very happy. Aggressive lawyers and defend the rights of their clients. I recommend them to friends and family. Thank you.

- M.G.

Very professional Law Firm esspecially the attorney that handled my case Joseph Glace. I highly recomend this Law Firm.

- M.S.

Joseph was a great attorney to deal with and he acted professionally handling my case and got it settled. Thank you.

- B.N.

I have experienced very respectful and very clear communication during my time using this law firm. Staff is kind and respects its clients' time. Very happy with their office.

- A.R.

This firm is great. They helped me out a lot when I was having issues with my insurance company for the house. On top of being great at their job, they are very kind and responsive. I never had a difficult time getting in contact with them.

- J.B.

Outstanding attorneys. Highly respected in the community.

- E.M.

After all the help from my lawyer, she managed to resolve my case in my favor. I recommend them 100%.

- D.I.

They always treat our clients with care and communicate very effectively. Couldn't be happier!

- S.G.

The entire team is extremely knowledgeable and always ready to help.

- M.M.

Louis and the staff at VGD are always willing to help out. They truly have their clients best interests in mind and work hard to get the best results in every case. I highly recommend them if you have questions or need help with a claim.

- J.N.

Nice staff and very professional, 100% recommend.

- A.L.

Very responsive! Keeps me informed. Very accessible! Everything you would want in the lawyer who is representing you!

- S.F.

I worked with George Zeckler and his paralegal yunior, they were the 2 most respectful, kind, caring, professional people. They genuinely cared, put forth effort, communicated effectively and efficiently. I would highly recommend this law firm and those 2 in particular. They work hard for you. Thank you very much for all you do!

“I want to thank him personally for his hard work and dedication to my claim. My many questions were promptly answered. His personal attention put me at ease and he was a pleasure to work with. I would highly recommend Attorney Louis Gonzalez.”

- T. K.

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