Reasons insurance companies deny fire claims
If you don't collect, we don't get paid.
Reasons insurance companies deny fire claims
Every year, tens of thousands of homes are destroyed by fire. These fires start for a multitude of reasons. Some are accidental, like careless smoking or fireplace carelessness. Another reason is faulty wiring in the home. Each fire is different but each is investigated by the fire department, to locate the hot spot. The hot spot is the location where the fire began. Insurance companies then get a report from the fire department and most send their own experts to investigate as well. This all has to be done before filing a claim. However, not all claims get paid, and here are some reasons why.
Misrepresentation of your home
When you've experienced a house fire, you’ve probably lost more than what can be proven by an insurance adjuster. While it is easy to put a price on a flat-screen TV, it may not be so easy to put a value on family heirlooms, antiques, or sentimental items. However, you should never let your loss impair your judgment. By inflating the true value of items or claiming that you lost more than can be proven, you could jeopardize your entire claim.
Suspicion of Arson
One of the most important tasks of your insurance company’s investigation of the fire is to find out the source. If the fire department or police cannot locate where the fire started, they may suspect arson. If the insurance company has accused you of arson or insurance fraud, it is best to hire a skilled insurance claim attorney to handle your claim.
Non-payment of premiums
Keeping up with your insurance premium is very important. It is just that simple. Late or missed premium payments give the insurance company reasons to deny your claim.
Illegal activity
Your insurance company will deny your claim if there is evidence of illegal activity, such as drug manufacturing. This one seems obvious, but if you are a landlord, and own rental properties, it is a good idea to periodically inspect the premises and look for signs of drug labs or specialty lighting, used to grow illegal substances. These are all extreme fire hazards and your claim will be denied promptly.
Work was done without permits/ inspections
If a fire is deemed to be caused by an electrical issue in a home where the electrical work was not permitted by the city or county where the home is located, the insurance company will deny your claim. Even if you bought a home with a specialty kitchen or finished basement, that the previous owner installed himself, and later found out that he did not get permits or inspections, this may be a reason for denying your claim, especially if the fire was caused by faulty wiring.
Remember, you have every right to dispute the denial of coverage if your home insurance claim was denied. Whether you merely need to provide additional documentation, or take more serious measures like legal action or filing complaints, build a strong case for yourself, it's your right.
ICC Public Adjusters doing business in North Carolina, South
Carolina and Georgia
Since 1989
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- Obtain the maximum pay-out possible subject to the findings of our reports
- Ensure your property is returned to its original state as soon as reasonably viable
Whether your damage is from a hurricane, fire, or flood, ICC insurance claim consultants are committed to protecting the interest of our customers.
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