For context, I live in South Carolina, USA; home is about 3 years old. A neighbor ran their car into my house last night pulling out of their driveway. Car didn’t actually break through a wall into the house but displaced a 6×6 post on the porch that supports the second story, did significant damage to the corner of my house, then ended up hitting my next door neighbors house. Damage radiated up to joists supporting second story, evident splitting of the supports, not sure about strapping. Local fire department came and secured the post back into place with some shims and determined the house was safe to enter/live in. The city building safety came by today as well and deemed it safe.
Police determination was the driver slammed the gas thinking they hit the brakes and froze/couldn’t react in time. My family is fine as is my neighbor, no injuries sustained.
First time dealing with property damage so this is all new territory for me. Really just want to make sure I’m approaching all of this appropriately and ensure I do everything in my power to get this all rectified as quickly and professionally as possible.
1) Currently the driver has a claim open but I have not initiated a claim against my homeowners policy? Should I or do I wait for adjusters determination? Concerned about actual cost value vs replacement cost value
2) Progressive insures both the neighbor’s auto policy and my homeowner’s policy. Will this be a problem? Really ask because of the prevalence of subrogation and if the auto policy doesn’t cover enough
3) Can I get my own contractors to start assessing the damage and estimating costs? Ive been told to wait until I’m contacted by the assigned adjuster. I’ve contacted some contractors but I know I need a structural engineer and I don’t know that their policy will cover their fees
4) Can I clean up the debris from my home? There’s lots of plastic/glass/wood. I’ve taken plenty of photos and videos
5) Should I hire my own adjuster?
6) Should I hire a lawyer?
I need to go to bed but I appreciate everyone’s time and can answer any clarifying questions in the morning!
Neighbor ran into my house with their car
byu/brakelightfluid inInsurance
Posted by brakelightfluid
1 Comment
An attorney won’t help with property damage. But you need to file a homeowners claims. I would predict a limits issue with the driver’s policy and a support beam needs to be repaired asap. Both of you having Progressive will not be an issue. You definitely want to do what you can to clean up the area so it’s safer for you and those walking around outside.