What to Do If Your Hurricane Claim Was Denied

Posted on August 18, 2023

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Long Nguyen | author

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ICHQ | Site Author

Having your hurricane claim denied is what no homeowner wants to deal with in the aftermath of a major storm. Navigating insurance claims is daunting. There’s the potential for lowballing or even a complete denial of compensation, adding to your layer of stress. Fortunately, with proper guidance and support, you can fight for the compensation you deserve.

If you or your loved one are facing a denied hurricane claim for your home around New Orleans, our homeowners insurance claim attorneys are here to guide you through the appeal process so you get the payback you rightfully deserve.

Reasons Your Hurricane Claim Was Denied

Understanding why you got a hurricane claim denied response from your insurance carrier enables you to take appropriate steps to support your appeal. Here are common reasons behind your hurricane claim denial:

Policy exclusions and limitations

Insurance policies vary among providers. They each come with specific terms that dictate what types of damage are covered. If your property casualty falls outside the scope of coverage outlined in your policy, your claim could be denied.

Your claim could also be denied if it exceeds the fiscal cap stipulated in the contract. This is the maximum amount you can claim for certain damages. If your cover has a cap, the insurance provider will only pay up to the stated amount, regardless of the total cost of the damage.

Insufficient documentation

When you file a claim, you must show evidence of the damage you suffered. Insurance companies require detailed documentation to process your claim. This includes photographs, videos, and a comprehensive list of damaged items. Providing insufficient proof or overlooking important details can jeopardize your chances of receiving compensation.

Reporting delays

All homeowner covers have strict timelines for filing claims after a hurricane. Reporting your claim past the deadline raises questions about the validity of your damages, complicating the process.

Failing to pay premiums on time

Maintaining your insurance coverage requires timely payment of premiums. If you failed to pay your premiums or were late, your coverage may have lapsed. If your policy was inactive during the hurricane, your claim will likely be denied.

Failure to prevent further damage

You may find yourself in a tough situation if the insurance carrier suspects you failed to take reasonable steps to prevent damage to your property before and after the hurricane. They might argue that it’s your responsibility as a policyholder to keep your house in good shape, and your negligence or lack of action contributed to worsening the situation.

Insurance company acting in bad faith

In some unfortunate cases, insurance companies act in bad faith. Recognizing bad faith practices is essential to protect your rights. Some signs include:

  • Outright denial without proper investigation
  • Unreasonable delays in processing your claim
  • Refusal to provide requested documentation
  • Offering significantly less compensation than the damage warrants

If you believe your claim was rejected due to unethical action, you may have grounds to file a bad faith lawsuit. Reach out to Insurance Claim HQ. Our experienced property casualty lawyers are here to help.

What to Do When Your Hurricane Claim is Denied

To strengthen your appeal, one should:

  • Gather all relevant evidence related to the damage.
  • Take clear photos and videos of the affected areas and document all expenses you incurred, including temporary housing and food.
  • Record all communication with the insurance company, including names, dates, and times.
  • Get certified assessments from reputable contractors or experts.

Sufficient evidence helps support the extent of your losses.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Insurance Claim HQ Attorney

Dealing with a situation where your hurricane claim was denied can be disheartening, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Taking immediate action and working with a knowledgeable homeowners insurance claim attorney can significantly improve your chances of a successful appeal.

Contact Insurance Claim HQ or use our website form for a free case evaluation. With over 24 offices nationwide, we are dedicated to helping homeowners like you navigate through this challenging process.

FAQs About Denied Hurricane Claims

Can I handle the hurricane claim denial appeal myself?

While it’s possible to handle the appeal on your own, having an attorney significantly improves your chances of a fair resolution.

How long does the appeals process take?

The appeals process timeline varies depending on your case’s complexity.