Tornadoes cause destruction of such magnitude that one will be left with a long list of repairs or replacements. And when this destruction happens, you will look to your policy to help you recover from the losses.
However, as one seeks to file a claim for destruction in the wake of a tornado, it usually becomes a complicated and tough process. Most policyholders turn to their insurance for some relief only to be surprised that their claims end up getting rejected. The explanation provided below will help in steering clear of pitfalls and increase the chances of a successful claim.
Additionally, working with an experienced tornado damage lawyer can make a significant difference. Attorneys who deal with tornado damage claims understand the finer points of insurance policies and procedures for filing a claim. They can answer questions and deal with potentially problematic issues that may have led to the rejection.
Here are some common reasons tornado damage claims are rejected and how a lawyer can help.
1. Insufficient Documentation of Damages
Actually, one of the most common reasons why tornado damage claims are rejected is because of inadequate documentation. Most policyholders feel that if they click a few snaps and provide a small description of the damage done, it would be sufficient. Insurance companies usually seek strong evidence. They include such things as
- Detailed photos
- Receipts for repairs
- Estimations of repair by third parties
Without a comprehensive record of all damage, the claim will almost certainly be challenged by the insurers.
A tornado damage attorney will help you prepare a complete file of evidence. They may even arrange for independent inspections so that all damages are accurately detailed and your claim, therefore, includes all that is required to prove the loss.
2. Exclusions in Your Insurance Policy
Most insurance policies contain exclusions and limitations. Some policies cover damage caused by winds but exclude structural problems like foundation damage. In this case, parts or all of your claim may be denied according to what is excluded in the policy.
An experienced tornado damage attorney would carefully review your policy, making what is covered clear while spotlighting valid elements of the claim.
3. Pre-existing Damage or Delayed Reporting
The claim is likely to be rejected by the insurance company if they believe that the damage happened even before the tornado, or the claim is filed late after the occurrence. The damages resulting from the tornado have to be filed immediately, or else the delayed filing will simply make the insurers question the legitimacy of the claims.
Insurers are also likely to check whether there exists inherent wear and tear so that they will know if they will have to pay for them.
With legal representation, you get a professional on your side who will help demonstrate that the damages are related to the tornado. The lawyers will discuss with the insurance company to undermine any protests regarding pre-existing conditions and delays.
Conclusion
Being informed of the typical reasons for denial will be helpful when filling out a tornado damage claim. These measures can result in increased chances of winning.
Hiring an experienced tornado damage attorney makes all the difference between dealing with the intricacies of insurance and dodging unsavory denials. Hence, the competence of a lawyer is crucial while filing a claim. They make sure that your rights are protected and that your claim is handled fairly so that you can concentrate on recovering from the disaster while they deal with the legal issues.
