Filing a homeowners insurance claim should be simple. You report the damage, your insurance company steps in, and you get the money you need to rebuild. At least, that’s what they want you to think.
The reality? Submitting a claim is just the beginning of an exhausting process filled with delays, lowball estimates, and constant battles. If you’re expecting a smooth experience, you’re in for a rude awakening. Here are the three biggest headaches you’ll face—and how to fight back.
Headache #1: The Lowball Estimate
After you report the damage, an adjuster will inspect your home and provide a repair estimate. Sounds good, right? Except there’s a catch—insurance companies use software, not real-world pricing, to determine repair costs.
This means the estimate you get is often thousands of dollars less than what contractors actually charge. And here’s the worst part: insurance adjusters know it.
They count on you either accepting the lowball offer or struggling to find a contractor willing to do the work for that amount.
How to Fight Back:
✓ Get your own estimates. Never rely solely on the insurance adjuster’s numbers—bring in a contractor to provide a real-world quote.
✓ Challenge the numbers. Adjusters work off pricing databases, but actual costs vary by location and materials. Demand a fair reassessment.
✓ Consider hiring a public adjuster. Unlike the insurance company’s adjuster, a public adjuster works for you and fights to get the full amount you deserve.
Headache #2: The Endless Delays
Insurance companies love to stall. The longer they delay, the more desperate homeowners become—and the more likely they are to accept a low payout.
You’ll hear excuses like:
• ‘We’re still reviewing your claim.’
• ‘We need additional documentation.’
• ‘The adjuster needs managerial approval.’
Each delay tactic is designed to wear you down, hoping you’ll settle for less just to get things over with.
How to Fight Back:
✓ Follow up constantly. Document every call and email. The squeaky wheel gets the grease.
✓ Know your rights. Many states have deadlines for insurance companies to respond—if they stall beyond that, you can file a complaint.
✓ Escalate when necessary. If your claim is stuck, demand a supervisor or consider legal action.
Headache #3: The Fine Print Denial
Just because you have insurance doesn’t mean your claim will be covered. Insurance companies love loopholes. Common denial reasons include:
• ‘Wear and tear’ exclusions—claiming damage wasn’t caused by a sudden event but gradual deterioration.
• Claiming the damage is ‘cosmetic’ and doesn’t impact functionality.
• Arguing that certain repairs aren’t necessary, even when contractors disagree.
How to Fight Back:
✓ Request a detailed explanation. Make them put every reason for denial in writing.
✓ Review your policy closely. Compare their explanation with your actual coverage to see if they’re bluffing.
✓ Appeal the decision. Many denials can be overturned if challenged properly. Public adjusters and legal experts can help.
Don’t Let Your Insurance Company Win
The insurance company’s goal is to pay as little as possible and make you jump through hoops until you give up. But you don’t have to accept their games.
If your claim is underpaid or denied, fight back. You have options, and you don’t have to go through this alone.
Need Help With Your Claim? Contact Me Today!
You are up against a billion-dollar industry that has perfected the art of underpaying and denying claims. Their policies, procedures, and adjuster training are all designed to work against you. You need an advocate who knows how to fight back.
If your claim has been denied or underpaid, I can help. I spent years working for insurance companies, and now I use that knowledge to fight for homeowners like you.
Don’t let your insurance company underpay you. Book a free 15-minute consultation today, and I’ll tell you if they owe you more—No obligation.