Property Damage Claims: Common Misconceptions
When it comes to property damage claims, there is a lot of inaccurate information floating around, so today, we’re tackling the most common misconceptions that we’ve heard from our clients…
1)“If I make a homeowners insurance claim, my premiums will go up.”
Louisiana Law makes it clear that insurance companies 1) cannot raise your premiums for using your insurance and/or 2) disagree with the amounts that the insurance company has given you for the damage to your home. Insurance premiums are increasing across the board, but not specifically because you’re making property damage claims.
2) “I’m not the suing type, so there is nothing I can do.“
Most homeowner’s policies will have a provision for the parties to go to “appraisal” or arbitration if there is a dispute. While this is similar to “filing a suit” insofar as you need to provide evidence to demonstrate to the umpire what damages you believe you sustained to your home, this can be accomplished without ever going to court.
3)“If the insurance company does not give me enough money, they are in “Bad Faith.“
Disagreeing with the insurance company does not necessarily mean they’re operating in “Bad Faith.” Even if there is a good case for Bad Faith damages, this is rarely something that insurance companies will agree to. Instead, you will most likely have to go to court to enforce your rights if the insurance company operates in Bad Faith.
If you have questions about a property damage claim, please reach out to us by phone or through our website & we’ll be happy to assist you!
