Is Louisiana a Matching Line of Sight State for Homeowners Insurance?

Louisiana is not a matching line of sight state. States with this provision require insurers to replace damaged property with materials of similar quality, color, and texture to ensure the repaired or replaced property matches the rest of the building. Because Louisiana has no matching statutes, homeowners insurance policies may not include this provision.

Additionally, insurance companies aren’t obligated to cover the cost of replacing damaged property to match the existing undamaged portions. This article explores the line-of-sight insurance laws in Louisiana’s homeowners insurance law, including its implications for policyholders and insurers.

What Does the Matching Line of Sight Mean in Homeowners Insurance Policies?

Under the line of sight rule, the insurance company will only compensate the homeowner for the damage related to the covered hazard. Homeowners may not be reimbursed if the damage is unrelated to the covered event.

However, if there are underlying or invisible structural damages, the insurance company may not cover any costs for the repairs or replacements. Homeowners should understand the limitations of the line of sight principle when it comes to home protection. It is advisable to thoroughly review your specific policy to know how the rules apply in your unique situation.

What Parts of a Home Are Usually Within the Matching Line of Sight Insurance Laws?

Common components within a home that may fall under line of sight regulations include:

• The design, height, and color of the roof
• The size, placement, and style of the windows
• Interior cabinets, counters, carpeting, and furniture
• The entrance doors and their style or positioning
• Exterior fixtures like outdoor lighting, awnings, or other fixtures visible from the outside
• Exterior walls, siding, trim, paint, and molding, including materials and design features

Line of sight insurance laws can vary depending on local regulations, homeowner association guidelines, or architectural restrictions. Homeowners are encouraged to seek legal advice to understand the specific requirements and limitations of a particular home insurance policy.

How Does the Matching Statute Apply to Louisiana?

Because Louisiana has no matching line of sight insurance laws, insurers may include a provision in homeowners policies. Such conditions aim to address concerns related to obstructions that may impact the view of insured property, like trees, buildings, or other surrounding structures. The valued policy law, for example, requires a Louisiana homeowner to have a policy that sets a specific value for a property.

Should the home get destroyed by a covered peril, the insurer must pay the total policy amount without any deduction for depreciation. However, this law does not require insurers to match damaged property in all cases. They may only repair or replace the damaged property rather than pay the policy’s full amount.

A Homeowners Insurance Claim Attorney at Insurance Claim HQ Can Help

Property owners experiencing difficulties with their homeowners insurance in Louisiana should not hesitate to consult an attorney at Insurance Claim HQ. After all, insurance companies are for-profit businesses. They may act in bad faith by limiting the amount paid out in the aftermath of a disaster, or persuade you to accept less money than your damages are worth.

Even if Louisiana is not a matching state, your insurer is still obligated to assist you in paying for restoring your property to its previous condition. The homeowners insurance claim attorneys at Insurance Claim HQ will assess your claim, and if you have a valid case, we’ll document your losses and file a claim with your insurer. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive consultation.

FAQs About Matching Line of Sight