You purchased homeowners insurance to protect your property. You sought peace of mind through the promise that in the event of a tragedy, your insurance company would reimburse you for losses. But when a legitimate claim is denied, your peace of mind can quickly turn to stress and confusion.
You would think that since you purchased something you would get the value of that service if and when it is needed. But it’s not that easy. No other industry works like this, where you purchase something and have to right to actually get the value. This is why you need a public adjuster on your side.
Review the Reasons for Denial
If and when your insurer denies your claim, they will send you a letter explaining their reasons for why your claim was denied. Be sure to read the letter thoroughly, and read the language in your policy. You need to obtain the full policy coverage language, oftentimes you have to ask your insurance company for the proper documents.
Contact Your Insurer
It’s often frustrating to even get your insurance company on the phone, but you’ll need to in order to collect the proper documentation. The frustrating part is often times when you call, you get someone different on the phone each time. On the flip side, if the insurance company calls you, keep notes of these conversations, but respond in writing. Try to be polite, since the person answering the phone isn’t the one who denied your claim, and you probably are being recorded.
Appeal the Denial
Your insurer should have given you instructions to appeal the denial of your claim. Follow this procedure closely because you can have an appeal denied on a technicality. Prepare your appeal with care, your public adjuster can help you. You will want your public adjuster to review what you’ve written to make sure you’ve included all the information the company wants to see.
Why You Need a Public Adjuster
You have the option to hire a public adjuster to evaluate your claim. This can bolster your argument that your request for assistance was unfairly denied. Public adjusters often offer a free policy evaluation, so if one is offered to you, be sure to take it.
When you are intimidated by the process and the stress this denied claim has caused, it can be difficult to advocate for yourself, even when a substantial claim is at stake. Your personal emotions can get in the way of an amicable solution.
Since public adjusters know how the system works, they can help you prepare an appeal that is less likely to be denied and even speak to the company on your behalf. You can hire a public adjuster at any time during the process, but the sooner the better.