Can the insured file a claim with minimal damage to the home?
Yes! If a homeowner notices any damage to covered areas, they can file a claim with their insurance company. I.E. missing shingles after high winds.
Can the insured begin demolition on home before claim has been settled?
If the demolition is centered around drying out a home after flood damage – YES. Any further repairs should be discussed with the adjuster beforehand.
Can an insured file an insurance claim for a newly purchased property with existing damage?
No, You must have coverage on the property when the damage occurred.
I changed insurance companies and found old damage from prior to the change. Which insurance company do I file my claim with?
You file your claim with the insurance carrier who covered your property at the time of loss. Even if they are not your current carrier.
I disagree with the settlement amount. What should I do with the settlement check?
The insurance company is require to make a payment to you within a certain amount of time or deny the claim. This is your money and depositing it does not constitute acceptance as a final payment. In fact, if you wait too long to accept the money it will eventually be turned over to the state. As long as there isn’t a note on the check (haven’t seen this in years) that states depositing the check is an agreement to final settlement and releases the insurance company from any additional claim, we can always collect more money.
When a claim moves into litigation with an attorney, who is responsible for the attorney fees?
99.9% of cases the attorney bills the carrier – no cost to insured for this service.