Denied Fire Insurance Claim? Here’s What You Need To Do
A fire insurance claim can take an ugly turn when it gets denied. Aside from the devastating losses, the denial of your claim will leave you with out-of-pocket expenses. There are many reasons why your insurer will deny your claim for fire insurance. However, not all denials are judged properly. It’s your right to re-appeal and demand for another adjuster to look into the matter.
The fire insurance claim process is tricky especially if the insurer is playing games on you. However, don’t let this initial defeat eat your courage away. You have the following steps to take:
Read the denial letter
Once your insurance company decided to deny your claim, they will send you a formal letter. It will include the reasons for such denial. Make sure that your compare the reasons to the inclusion terms on your policy. If you think you’ve been ripped off, it’s time to build your strongest case.
Call your insurer and raise your concerns. Keep a log of every communication you make with the insurer including the matters discussed.
Establishing your solid case
If your insurer proved to be a headache, it’s time to hire a public adjuster. They will help you detail the losses and the policy clause that states the damage should’ve been covered. At this point, you’ll be using your communication log to prove that you’ve exhausted all efforts to get your case reviewed. Supporting documents will also be prepared before you re-communicate with the insurer.
Climb the command ladder if your claim goes unreviewed. Go to the insurer’s supervisor, manager, directors, and so on. This could be a taxing process but worth it if the damages are large-scale. It’s best to hire an attorney and a public adjuster to help you out.
Fire insurance claim tips: Keep documenting every communication. This will be the foundation of your fight to a payout.
Filing a complaint
If everything doesn’t work, the next resort is to file a complaint against your insurance company. The insurance commissioner of your state will be handling the case. This should automatically result in a review of your claim and the evidence that you should’ve been granted the payout.
Remember, though, that filing a complaint should only be done if you’ve exhausted all possible remedies. Legal matters can get really messy.
Here come EUO and threatening letters
When your insurance company demands you to attend an examination under oath, this is a sign of a bigger storm. This legal process spells war and you should seek the advice of an insurance lawyer. The goal here is to reach a fire insurance claims settlement. You should be prepared to present your case. The same goes for smoke damage insurance coverage and other indirect fire damages.
To admit, this stage will be intimidating. But with the help of a public adjuster and a lawyer, it should give you a fighting chance. A fire insurance claim could be demanding, but it’s nothing compared to what perished on the ashes.
