Why Was My Hurricane Claim Denied?
When tragedy strikes, we are often left emotionally vulnerable. When an expected safety net, like homeowner’s insurance, also fails us, the resulting confusion can lead to anger.
Hopefully, this listing of common reasons for why insurance claims are denied (and what can be done to avoid denial) can help bring calm and sense back to a stressful situation.
Common Reasons for an Insurance Claim Denial
An insurance company must explain to you, in writing, why any insurance claim has been denied. Phone conversations are not enough to be a denial.
Basic reasons for denial include not paying premiums on time, not filing a claim in time, and not documenting the damages claimed. These are all legitimate reasons for denying a claim and do not leave much ground to fight the denial.
A more complicated matter comes from an insurance policy’s exclusions lists. For instance, home insurance in many coastal counties does not include an option to cover wind or hail damage, so these claims can be denied. Flood damage is also covered by a separate insurance, so those claims must be made with the appropriate organization, and not with your homeowner’s insurance company.
Homeowners may also be denied coverage based on how they presented the damage claims to the insurance company. Without good documentation, a company can deny your proof of possession. Homeowners are also expected to try to prevent further damage from occurring after the initial incident. For example, if a wind storm created holes in your roof, it is your duty to temporarily cover those holes, instead of allowing later rainstorms to further damage your home.
Appealing an Insurance Claim Denial
If you believe your insurance company is denying your claim without a legitimate reason, you can follow these steps below on your own, or you can find a Texas homeowners insurance claims attorney to help you take legal action:
- File an appeal. Your homeowner’s policy will tell you how to do this and what timeline you must meet. Your appeal must include as much evidence and documentation as you can find to overturn the denial. The insurance company will then review your claim again.
- Consult a licensed public insurance adjuster. They can verify your coverage, help you document the damages suffered, and help you seek the maximum reimbursement your policy allows.
- File a formal complaint. If everything else has failed, and it looks like the insurance company is acting in bad faith, you have the option to file your complaint with the Texas Department of Insurance.
McAllen Bad Faith Insurance Attorneys
At Millin & Millin, we are dedicated to helping you get your insurance to pay out what is owed to you.
If you are having to file an insurance claim, it’s likely due to the fact that you have just suffered through a terrible event. Having to deal with the unscrupulous tactics of an insurance company is the last thing you need on your plate during this time.
Depend on the responsiveness of the bad faith insurance legal team of Millin & Millin to get the justice you need when seeking your rightful compensation from deceitful insurers.