The right time to file a home insurance claim can depend on various factors. Although homeowners can often deal with the insurance claim process without hiring professional help, an attorney could prevent an insurer from taking advantage of a homeowner during the claim process.
Some factors that could make hiring an attorney worthwhile include home insurance claims involving multiple dates of loss, older properties, large dollar amounts, or extensive damage. An experienced insurance claims attorney who knows when and how to properly file a home insurance claim can help protect a homeowner’s rights under their policy and fight for the highest potential insurance payout.
Homeowners Insurance Policies and Most Common Claims
Homeowners insurance is intended to give homeowners the peace of mind that they will not bear complete financial responsibility when events outside their control cause damage to their property.
Mortgagors require homeowners to obtain insurance to protect the value of the property subject to the mortgage. Policy limits and coverage can vary depending on factors such as the location and fair market value of the home.
Some of the most common home insurance claims come from damage caused by environmental events, such as heavy winds, hail, thunderstorms, and lightning. Fires caused by environmental events or electrical issues are another common cause of home insurance claims.
Water damage from environmental events or extreme cold weather can also cause extensive damage to homes. Home insurance can also cover losses from criminal events, like the theft of valuable property.
Considerations When Filing a Home Insurance Claim
A homeowner must consider several factors when deciding to file an insurance claim. The most important consideration is the cause of the damage and the date of loss when the damage occurred. For example, some people mistakenly see a leak and water damage and file a claim for that date of loss, when in reality the damage that caused the leak occurred during a hailstorm three months prior.
Since insurance policies often require the homeowner to pay a deductible, it is important to consider the cost to repair or replace the property damage compared to the deductible amount. Homeowners should consult with a contractor to determine the full extent of the damage.
The insurance company will most often send an adjuster to calculate the damage in accordance with the home insurance policy and make determinations on applicable coverage when a homeowner determines the property damage warrants filing a claim.
Next, the home insurer will either deny the claim or make an offer based on their estimate to repair or replace the damage. In many cases, the insurance company will misrepresent the extent of the damage by submitting an estimate below the policy deductible.
How an Attorney Can Help with a Home Insurance Claim
While some home insurance claims are straightforward, insurance companies can be difficult to work with. An attorney at Kirk Law Firm could help a homeowner negotiate with an insurance company when they wrongfully deny or underpay a homeowner’s claim.
Insurance payouts depend on factors such as the type of loss, policy language, and the extent of property damage. Insurers are known for attempting to minimize the damage and pay as little as possible under the policy. When the homeowner disagrees with the payout amount, they have the right to challenge the decision with an insurer.
Insurers also wrongfully deny claims altogether for reasons such as claiming that damage was caused by wear and tear or a storm that happened before policy inception.
When the homeowner believes the settlement amount offered by an insurance company is inadequate or the claim was improperly denied, our attorneys can negotiate on their behalf during the appeals process.
Speak With an Attorney About When to File an Insurance Claim
Our attorneys can provide advice throughout the home insurance claims process and counsel a client regarding applicable state insurance laws. Consider hiring an attorney to negotiate on your behalf when you are negotiating with a home insurance company or facing a high-value home insurance claim.
Insurance companies use many tactics to discourage homeowners and limit claims. An experienced attorney can protect your rights under your home insurance policy. Contact Kirk Law Firm today for a free consultation.
