HOMEOWNER INSURANCE DISPUTES
What to do after a loss?
- You should notify your insurance company as soon as possible. While you can contact your insurance company by phone, most insurers also require a written notification.
- Immediately take steps to prevent further damage and secure your property to the extent possible. You have a duty under your insurance policy to take reasonable steps to minimize additional damage and loss.
- Failure to take these initial steps may prevent or delay payment of your claim.
Read your policy
- Read your policy and ensure you understand the different types of coverage it provides. It is essential to figure out what your policy covers as quickly as possible.
Restoring Your Property
- Your home is your most important investment. Being able to “restore” your home to its original condition is why you have insurance. However, the way policies are written it can be difficult to understand precisely how it is supposed to work.
- Most homeowners also are not familiar with current construction methods and costs.
- For these reasons, relying on the insurance company to tell you what they owe can be a mistake.
Resolving Your Claim
- When settling any part of your insurance claim, be wary of “cash out” settlement offers. A “cash out” settlement should not be accepted unless you are sure that you can get the necessary repairs done for that amount.
- Unless you are qualified to evaluate the insurance company’s offer, you should rely on estimates from independent professionals who are acting in your interest as opposed to the interest of the insurance company.
- The biggest mistake many people make after a significant loss is to accept payment of an insufficient amount to restore your home and property.
Do you need a lawyer?
- It is not unusual to have disagreements with your insurance company. If your insurance company will not work with you and pay the right amount, or if your insurance company is not being fair, you should get legal help.
- We have the expertise to help you properly present your claim.
- We will negotiate to ensure your insurance company pays the total amount owed.
Call us at 601-957-3101 or contact us online.