By Sean-Christopher Castle, Managing Partner | Cardinal Law Jamaica Post-Hurricane Legal Series
Jamaica in the Days After Hurricane Melissa
Jamaica is still reeling from the impact of Hurricane Melissa. Search and relief efforts continue, and many families are facing loss, displacement, and uncertainty.
This is not the time for rushed decisions or paperwork. It is the time to stay safe, stay informed, and take small, careful steps that will make recovery easier when the country begins to rebuild.
The following seven (7) actions are meant to protect your rights and help you prepare for the weeks, months, and possibly years ahead. They are practical, not technical, and they can be done gradually when you are ready.
1. Record and Save Evidence of Damage
If it is safe to return to your property, take photos and videos before repairs begin. Record the roof, walls, windows, electrical panels, furniture, and yard. If you are renting, document damage to both your personal belongings and the premises.
Insurance companies require proof under the Insurance Act (Jamaica). Create a digital backup by emailing the images to yourself or storing them on a cloud service. Keep every receipt for emergency repairs or temporary accommodation.
Tip: If you cannot access the property, ask a neighbour or trusted friend to take the photos for you.
2. Notify Your Insurer and/or Landlord in Writing
Once communication lines are restored, contact your insurance company and/or your landlord by email or text. State the date and nature of the damage and request written confirmation that your message was received.
Under the Rent Restriction Act, landlords are responsible for structural repairs while tenants handle personal items. Written communication creates a clear record and prevents misunderstandings later.
3. Secure What You Can and Protect Important Documents
Safety comes first. If you can enter the property, secure open areas and cover exposed sections to prevent further damage. Do not take unnecessary risks; if the building is unstable, call the Jamaica Constabulary Force or local disaster officials.
Protect vital papers such as titles, wills, insurance policies, and identification cards. If documents are lost, replacements can be requested from the National Land Agency, the Registrar General’s Department, or your attorney.
4. Understand How Contracts Are Affected
Many people had property sales, construction projects, or business contracts underway before the storm. Hurricanes can delay or temporarily suspend obligations under “force majeure” or “Act of God” clauses.
If your transaction is affected, speak with your lawyer before signing any amendment or cancellation. See Cardinal Law’s guide on Property Sales After a Hurricane to understand who bears responsibility when a property is damaged during a pending sale.
5. Follow Official Announcements
The Government of Jamaica often issues short-term directions that protect citizens and workers.
After Hurricane Melissa, non-essential public-sector employees who could not attend work were told they would not lose vacation days.
Keep an eye on updates from the:
- Office of the Prime Minister
- Ministry of Labour and Social Security; and
- Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM).
These offices/agencies announce relief measures, safety alerts, and information about aid distribution. Knowing what is official can prevent confusion and misinformation.
6. Communicate Early With Lenders and Employers
If your home or income has been affected, tell your bank, credit union, or employer as soon as you can.
Under the Banking Services Act and financial-consumer guidelines, lenders may allow grace periods or loan restructuring. Document all communication and keep copies of any responses.
Employees who cannot safely return to work should also inform their employers in writing. Our detailed article, Employment Rights After a Hurricane, explains your obligations and entitlements under Jamaica’s labour laws.
7. Get Legal Guidance When You Are Ready
Legal advice after a hurricane is not only for lawsuits.
It helps you recover lost papers, file insurance claims correctly, and avoid costly mistakes when emotions are high.
When the time is right, your lawyer can:
- Request extensions for missed filing deadlines
- Advise on contract delays or cancellations
- Assist with property or insurance disputes
- Guide you in replacing official documents
At Cardinal Law, we believe calm, accurate legal guidance is part of national relief. You can reach out when you are ready to move forward.
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Closing Thoughts
The days after a hurricane are overwhelming.
Take care of your safety and wellbeing first.
Then, little by little, protect the details that matter such as your documents, your communication, and your peace of mind.
Doing so now can prevent hardship later.
Our thoughts are with everyone affected across Jamaica. Stay safe, stay informed, and lean on each other.
About the Author
Sean-Christopher Castle is a Partner at Cardinal Law, Attorneys-at-Law. You may e-mail him at seanc@cardinallawja.com, call 876-728-9757 or WhatsApp 876-530-1787
Related Reading
- If You Can’t Work After the Hurricane: What Jamaican Law Says About Your Job and Pay
- Buying Property in Jamaica After the Hurricane? READ THIS FIRST!
- Missed Your Closing or Court Deadline Because of the Hurricane? Here’s What the Law Says
Disclaimer
This post was written by an attorney, but not your attorney. It is shared for general information and education, not for any specific legal advice. Every matter is unique, and laws or government policies may change. You should always consult your own attorney-at-law before making decisions that could affect your rights or obligations.
While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Cardinal Law, Attorneys-at-Law assumes no responsibility for any loss or action taken in reliance on this publication.
© Cardinal Law, Attorneys-at-Law. All rights reserved.
Cardinal Law, Attorneys-at-Law
Kingston, Jamaica | www.cardinallawja.com | @cardinallawja
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