Texas provides regulations for the timely handling of a homeowners’ insurance claim. Even with these guidelines, the time it takes to settle a claim can vary. The best way to understand your potential timeline is to let a Corpus Christi insurance claims lawyer handle it for you.
A lawyer can streamline the insurance claims process for you and clarify each step from initial filing to final settlement. They can also describe how settlement negotiations and an appeal (if necessary) will affect the timeline. If you are concerned about how long your homeowner’s insurance claims will take, consider working with a lawyer in your area to make the process as efficient as possible.
Insurance Companies Have Specific Time Limits to Act on Your Claim in Texas
When a natural disaster or other event causes extensive damage to your home, you want to start repairing or rebuilding it immediately. Your insurance company is legally obligated to handle your claim promptly. According to Texas’ Consumer Bill of Rights for Homeowners, the time frame includes handling your homeowners insurance claim in a timely manner and with no avoidable delays.
15 Days to Acknowledge Your Homeowner’s Claim
You have the right to prompt handling of your claim. The insurance adjuster must acknowledge its receipt within 15 calendar days. Within that time, they must also request any additional information needed to reach a decision.
15 Days to Investigate, Approve, or Deny Your Claim
You cannot wait forever for the homeowners insurance company to decide whether to accept or reject your claim. They have 15 calendar days to approve or deny your claim in writing.
If your claim is related to a fire, the insurer has additional time to investigate any valid suspicion of arson. The insurance provider may also request an extension of up to 45 days but must define why.
Five Days to Remit Compensation for an Approved Claim
Once the insurance carrier approves your claim, you should not have to wait an unreasonable time to get a check. After the adjuster notifies you of your claim’s approval, they must remit payment within five business days. In cases of a natural disaster, the insurance payment deadline can be extended for 15 more days.
We have offices in Houston, Corpus Christi, and Victoria; and will travel to any corner of Texas if we are capable of preventing an injustice.
Homeowners Must Also Meet Time-Related Obligations for Insurance Claims
As the policyholder, you must also comply with certain time restrictions for filing a claim. According to the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI), you must:
- Notify your insurance company of the damage or loss of your home immediately
- Make a detailed list of the damage, including before-and-after photos and video
- Not dispose of anything related to property damage before the adjuster assigned to your case has seen or inspected it
- Make an effort to limit any additional damage to your property, including boarding up windows and draping tarps
- Avoid making permanent repairs
- Collect and keep all receipts related to any temporary repairs or protective measures you make
- Accommodate the adjuster when viewing your property and accompany them on any walk-throughs or other inspections
Refer to your homeowners insurance policy for any specific filing and notification deadlines. If you are considering hiring an insurance claims attorney, do so as soon as possible. Your attorney can ensure a thorough inspection of your property. They can also advise you on what not to say to the claims adjuster to avoid potentially harming your claim.
When and How You Can Expect a Homeowner’s Claim to Pay Out
Within five days of approving your claim, the insurer must make payment. This typically means they will cut two checks. One check will include the repair or replacement estimate. They will take your property’s depreciated value and deductible from this check. A separate check will include the remainder of the contractor’s fee once they finish repairs on your home.
Additional Factors That Affect the Timeline of a Homeowners’ Insurance Claim
Each insurance company, policy, and policyholder is unique, meaning no two cases will have the same timeline. Even when involved parties follow all state-mandated timelines, the time between filing a claim and receiving compensation can vary greatly.
You Do Not Have to Accept the First Settlement Offer You Receive
If you believe the initial settlement offer is too low, you can continue to negotiate or enter arbitration or mediation. A lawyer in your area can describe your options and fight by your side for appropriate compensation.
If you enter the appraisal process, you and the insurer will each hire independent appraisers. These appraisers will consult a third-party, independent appraiser who acts as an impartial arbitrator. If you disagree with their finding, you can take your insurer to court. A lawyer can also help you navigate the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process.
An Appeal Can Increase the Timeline of Your Homeowner’s Claim
A rejected claim can be frustrating and disappointing. However, you do not have to stop fighting for compensation. If the insurance company denied your claim, you can consult a lawyer who can:
- Review a comprehensive copy of your homeowners’ policy
- Document why the insurance provider denied your claim
- Identify any bad faith practices affecting your claim
- Negotiate with the insurance company and adjuster
- Collect additional evidence that supports your compensation request
While filing an appeal will lengthen the time it takes to resolve your claim, it can also help you get the compensation you need to restore your property and start putting your life back together.
Representing the injured in all areas of Texas that extends back over 40 years
Get Help Filing Your Homeowners’ Insurance Claim
How long homeowners insurance claims take can vary based on multiple factors. If you are struggling to settle your claim or file an appeal, our results-driven legal team can provide clarity and guidance. You do not have to fight for compensation on your own.
Find out how hard our insurance claims attorneys will advocate for you. Get started now by contacting one of our consultation team members at Carrigan & Anderson, PLLC today.
At Carrigan & Anderson, PLLC we can talk to you about your options and rights.
