My Homeowner’s Insurance Company’s Check Was Too Small: What Do I Do?

You count on homeowner’s insurance to protect one of your largest financial assets. When the worst happens, whether it’s a tornado, a hurricane, or a fire, you need to know that your insurance company will quickly and efficiently get you back in your home. But what happens when your insurance adjustor writes a check that won’t cover your damages or the cost of repairing your home? The good news is, you don’t have to take it. An experienced lawyer, like the attorneys at Manfred Sternberg & Associates, can help.

What Happens When the Check is Too Low?

If you believe the check from your homeowner’s insurance isn’t enough to compensate you for damages adequately, you shouldn’t cash the check. You have options.

1. Talk to your insurance company. Tell them why you think the adjustor’s estimate is wrong. You can even send them receipts for repairs or estimates from your contractors.
2. Request an appraisal. In many cases, your insurance company will have an appraisal process you can use. Each of you will hire an appraiser, and the two appraisers will choose a third as an umpire of sorts. Each appraiser will estimate your losses; if the numbers differ, the third appraiser makes the final decision. If you use the appraisal process, you’ll be responsible for the cost of your appraiser and half of the cost of the third appraiser. 
3. File a complaint. You can file a complaint with the Texas Department of Insurance.
4. Contact an attorney. An attorney experienced in handling and negotiating homeowner’s insurance claims can evaluate your case, discuss your options, and negotiate with your insurance company on your behalf.

Hire an Attorney Experienced in Insurance Claims Recovery

You don’t have to take it if you’re getting the runaround or a lowball offer from your homeowner’s insurance company. The experienced attorneys at Manfred Sternberg & Associates can help. They’ve been helping people in Texas recover the compensation they deserve from insurance companies for years. If you believe your insurance company is acting in bad faith, they can help with that too. Call them at (713) 547-5460 or contact them online to schedule your consultation.