Experiencing the damage or destruction of your home can be devastating. Having your insurance company deny your claim can be even more upsetting. You do not have to fight for coverage alone. If your home was damaged and your losses are covered in your policy, a Corpus Christi homeowners insurance claims lawyer can help you file an appeal.
Learn more about what to do if Travelers denied your homeowners insurance claim with a free claim review. A team member at a local law firm will describe the steps you can take to keep fighting for compensation to repair or rebuild your home.
A lawyer will guide you through the appeals process, including adding additional evidence to your existing claim and understanding the fine print and nuances of your policy.
Why did Travelers Deny Your Homeowners Claim?
You have the right to know why your insurance carrier denied your claim, and Travelers must tell you in writing. Examine this document carefully and compare the reason(s) they provided to the coverage promised in your homeowner’s insurance policy.
You do not have to accept a denied claim as final or stop fighting for the compensation you need and deserve. Some common reasons insurance companies deny property damage claims include the following:
- Lack of appropriate insurance coverage: Your policy does not cover the type of damage your home sustained. For example, standard homeowner policies do not cover flood damage.
- Insufficient evidence: The insurance adjuster could deny your claim if they do not receive what they consider sufficient documentation of your property damage and its cause.
- Suspicion of fraud: If your insurance carrier is unsure of the cause of your property damage or alleges it was fraudulent—arson, for example—they may deny your claim or delay it pending further investigation.
Another reason insurance companies may deny claims is a missed filing deadline. A lawyer can help you understand the filing process, including the required timelines for your policy. They can also clarify Texas’ statute of limitations on homeowner claims.
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.
Collect as Much Evidence as Possible to Supplement Your Appeal
No matter why your homeowner’s insurance company denied your claim, you will need to add evidence to your appeal that establishes your right to compensation. While the reason for the denial will dictate the types of evidence your claim needs, you should generally include:
- Pictures of your home before and after the damage occurred
- Fire, police, weather, and other reports that describe the damaging event
- A comprehensive and complete copy of your Travelers insurance policy
- Photos, lists, and receipts (if available) for damaged personal property
- Receipts and photos that show you boarded, tarped, or secured your home
- Receipts for alternative living expenses for you and your family
If a Corpus Christi insurance claims lawyer represents you, they will examine the evidence you originally submitted and advise you on what additional evidence can bolster your claim.
Know What Your Travelers Insurance Policy Says About Covered Losses
Review your policy in detail before submitting a claim to understand its guidelines and protections. According to the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI), a basic homeowners insurance policy includes the following covered losses:
- Coverage for your primary structure
- Damaged or destroyed personal property
- Damaged outbuildings, gates, fences, and landscaping
- Alternative living expenses if your home is uninhabitable
- Personal liability coverage for accidental injuries
Every policy is different and will have a unique list of covered losses, so the best way to understand yours is to let an attorney handle the process for you. They can provide clarity and guidance at each phase of your appeal.
A Property Insurance Claims Lawyer Can Guide Your Appeal
Filing an appeal after an insurance claim denial is a detailed process. Your lawyer will start by reviewing any correspondence related to the denial. They will prepare any additional evidence and paperwork that supports your appeal.
In addition, your legal team will:
- Complete and submit your Proof of Loss statement to your insurance provider
- Correct any typos or errors in your original claim
- Document the before-and-after condition of your home
- File your official appeal per Travelers’ guidelines
Your lawyer will also identify any acts of bad faith that might have led to your homeowner’s insurance company denying your valid claim and clarify the steps you can take to hold the insurer accountable.
Representing the injured in all areas of Texas that extends back over 40 years
Is it Worth Hiring a Lawyer to File an Appeal if Travelers Denied Your Claim?
Damage to your home and the circumstances that led to it can be stressful and frustrating and lead to you making many important decisions in a short period. While you focus on your family, your lawyer can take on the following details of the claim process:
- Comply with Travelers’ and Texas’ filing deadlines
- Document the cause of your property damage or loss
- Identify any acts of bad faith, per the TDI
- Obtain, complete, and submit claim or appeal forms
- Review and add to previously submitted evidence
- Review and follow Travelers’ claim filing guidelines
Your lawyer will also provide informative updates and progress reports at each phase of the appeals process. They can also ensure the insurance claims adjuster acts in good faith when handling your claim and meets required deadlines.
What Is the Cost of Hiring a Homeowners Insurance Claim Attorney in Texas?
You do not have to add to your ongoing expenses by coming up with a large retainer or paying hourly fees to hire a lawyer. Many local law firms will represent you on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only compensate them after they recover compensation for you. If you do not get a settlement or verdict, you will not owe any fees.
You need a skilled advocate to protect your legal rights and present your claim in such a way as to maximize your recovery.
Get a Free Review of Your Homeowners Insurance Claim Appeal
Our law firm can provide legal advice and support when you are struggling to get compensation from your homeowner’s insurance company. If you are wondering what to do if Travelers denied your homeowners insurance claim, our legal team is on your side and can help you build an effective appeal.
David M. Anderson represents policyholders who face insurance company delays and denials. Find out how we can help you fight back by contacting our claim evaluation team at Carrigan & Anderson, PLLC, today.
At Carrigan & Anderson, PLLC we can talk to you about your options and rights.