An Ohio family says hail wrecked their roof - but State Farm will only fix three shingles, a move that might be illegal
Yahoo Finance • • business
Key Points:
- To dispute an insurance claim denial, start by thoroughly documenting all damage with photos and videos, and keep a detailed log of every interaction with the insurance company, which can serve as crucial evidence if the case escalates.
- Review your insurance policy carefully to understand what damages and causes are covered, as some, like flooding, may not be included, and check local laws regarding repair requirements to strengthen your position before contacting your insurer.
- Homeowners have the right to file a formal appeal against a claim denial, typically within 30 to 90 days, by submitting a written explanation with supporting documents for reconsideration by the adjuster.
- Hiring a public adjuster, who works on your behalf rather than the insurance company’s, can help document damages and prepare estimates, usually charging a percentage of the settlement and only getting paid if you win.
- If all other options fail, consulting a lawyer may be necessary, though legal costs could exceed the settlement amount; additionally, if you suspect bad faith by the insurer, you can file a complaint with your state’s insurance commissioner.