Insurance Claim Denials After Tornadoes: Common Reasons and How to Fight Back
When you file an insurance claim, you expect your insurance provider to give you a fair settlement so you can repair your home. Though this happens in most cases, receiving a settlement isn’t guaranteed. Some claims may be denied, meaning you won’t get the money you need to fix your home. Luckily, it’s possible to fight claim denials with help from a Florida tornado insurance claims attorney.
Why Tornado Insurance Claims Get Denied
Insurance companies won’t deny claims without reason. However, understanding the common reasons for denial can help you better mount a defense if you choose to appeal the decision. Here are the most common reasons that insurance providers deny tornado insurance claims:
- Errors on the claim: Insurance providers expect your claim to be accurate and free from common mistakes. If you submit a claim with errors like misspellings, incorrect addresses, or incorrect names, they may deny your claim.
- Pre-existing damage: Insurance providers only cover damage resulting from the qualifying incident. If they believe the damage existed prior to the tornado that triggered your claim, they may deny a settlement.
- Lack of coverage: Policies won’t protect against all types of damage. If your claim is for damage that’s not specifically outlined in your policy’s details, the insurance provider may deny your claim.
- Delayed or missing payments: If you fail to pay your premiums on time and in full, the insurance provider may deny your claim.
- Waiting too long: For providers to accurately assess the damage, they need to inspect your property shortly after the damage happens. If you wait too long to submit your claim, it may be denied.
Again, these are just the most common reasons for claim denials. If your claim is denied, reach out to your insurance agent to learn why. This will give you more clarity and help you decide on the best next steps.
How to Fight Insurance Claims Denials
When your insurance company denies a claim, you don’t have to give up hope. You can appeal and fight their decision. But there are a few steps you’ll need to take to increase your chances of making a successful appeal.
Ask Why Your Claim Was Denied
In your claim denial letter, the insurance provider may give a reason for the denial. Review this and ask your insurance agent for more information. They’ll be able to give you a detailed reason why your claim was denied.
Submit an Appeal
If the denial is something you can correct or you believe the insurance company made a mistake, you can submit an appeal. Your insurance agent will guide you through the process and tell you which types of documentation you’ll need to submit. Often, appeals can reverse denials, getting you the money you need.
Schedule an Appointment With a Public Adjuster
The insurance adjuster your provider sent out works for the insurance company. It’s in their best interest to downplay the damage so the insurance company can pay out as little as possible. If your claim was denied, work with a public adjuster and let them assess the damage. You can submit their report with your appeal to increase the chances of getting a fair settlement.
You can also work with a public adjuster as you’re filing your initial claim. This may help you qualify for a bigger settlement upfront and may reduce the risk of your claim being denied in the first place.
Sue the Insurance Provider if Needed
If your claim is denied without a valid reason or your insurance company refuses to acknowledge the validity of your appeal, you may be able to sue them for damages. You’ll want to work with an experienced tornado insurance claims attorney who is familiar with claim denials and can represent your case accurately.
Speak With a Florida Tornado Insurance Claims Attorney
If your claim has been denied, you may be able to fight the denial. Work with an experienced tornado insurance claims attorney at Parrish Law and let our team help you get the money you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.