How to Resolve Insurance Disputes with Home Claims

Fire is a common claim reason for home policies.

Homeowners insurance is purchased to mitigate losses in your home from a variety of losses including theft, fire or certain natural disasters. When a claim is filed, an adjuster reviews your policy terms and coverage limits along with all supporting documentation of the loss, such as police or fire reports. If you feel the final retribution for loss is less than what you should have, you can appeal the claim and file a dispute if necessary.

Things You'll Need

• Insurance policy terms
• Loss reports
• Finalized adjuster report

Instructions

1. Gather all information and supporting documentation you have regarding your policy, the loss and the adjuster's final report. See what the adjuster paid you for and what was missed as listed in your policy or inaccurately valued. For example, if you were repaid for the loss of three plasma televisions fair market value but should be repaid the replacement value, get retail sales documents for new items.

2. Write a letter to the adjuster explaining why you feel the claim did not pay adequately. Provide any supporting documents you have as attachments to the letter.

3. Follow up with a phone call to the adjuster to discuss the claim and your letter disputing the amount.

4. Call your insurance agent. Your agent is the person who benefits from your monthly premium payments and should be eager to retain your business. Explain any and all discrepancies and ask him to look into the matter on your behalf.

5. File a complaint with the state department of insurance if you feel are you not getting the adjustments to which you are entitled. Every state governs its own insurance industry via a state insurance commissioner. Commissioner websites have contact information and complaint hot lines.

Tips & Warnings

• Update homeowners policies annually. Review all items listed as valuables in the home and add new jewelry or other high-priced items. Keep a list of all household items with your policy in a safe deposit box for quick and easy inventory in the event of a loss.

References

• All Insurance Professionals: Insurance Claims: How to Settle a Claim and Resolve a Dispute
• Ohio.gov: Ohio Department of Insurance Complaint Center
• SurfRate: Homeowners Insurance Claim Settlement Tips