Appealing a Denied Claim

Losing your home or valuables in a disaster is devastating, and receiving a denied insurance claim can make the situation even more stressful. Unfortunately, insurance companies don’t always approve claims—even when the damage is covered. You have the right to appeal if your claim has been denied or underpaid. Understanding the process of appealing a denied claim can help you challenge the decision effectively and secure the compensation you deserve. Working with a public adjuster can also strengthen your case and maximize your chances of a successful appeal. Here’s what you need to know.

Step 1: Understand Why Your Claim Was Denied

Insurance companies are required to provide a written explanation for claim denials. Common reasons include:

• An insurer may argue that the damage resulted from an uncovered event.
• Missing deadlines can lead to claim denials if not filed within the required timeframe.
• Lack of sufficient documentation may weaken your claim and impact approval.
• Policy exclusions can be cited to deny coverage for specific types of damage.

📌 How a Public Adjuster Can Help: A public adjuster can review your policy and denial letter, identifying any errors or unfair claim handling that could strengthen your appeal.

Step 2: Gather Additional Evidence

To challenge a denial, you need strong evidence that proves your claim is valid. This includes:

• Gather professional assessments from contractors, engineers, or independent adjusters to verify the extent of the damage.
• Capture detailed photos and videos of the damage before starting any cleanup or repairs.
• Keep receipts and estimates for repairs, temporary housing, and personal property replacement.
• Review your policy documents and highlight sections that support your claim.

📌 How a Public Adjuster Can Help: Public adjusters conduct independent damage assessments and provide detailed reports that counter the insurance company’s findings, strengthening your appeal.

Step 3: File a Formal Appeal with Your Insurance Company

Once you’ve gathered your evidence, submit a written appeal to your insurance company. When appealing a denied claim, your appeal should include:

✉ A Formal Letter – Clearly stating why you believe the denial was incorrect.
📸 Supporting Evidence – Photos, reports, and estimates that validate your claim.
📜 A Policy Review – Highlighting relevant policy sections that support coverage.

Pro Tip: Be professional and concise—stick to the facts and avoid emotional language.

📌 How a Public Adjuster Can Help: A public adjuster can draft your appeal letter, compile evidence, and ensure the insurance company takes your appeal seriously.

Step 4: Request a Second Inspection

If your insurer based its denial on an adjuster’s initial assessment, you can request a second inspection.

📌 How a Public Adjuster Can Help: Public adjusters specialize in negotiating with insurance companies and ensuring that all damages are properly documented and accounted for.

Step 5: Escalate Your Appeal If Necessary

If your appeal is still denied, you can take additional steps in appealing a denied claim to fight for the compensation you deserve:

• Some policies allow formal appraisals to resolve disputes through an official process.
• Your state’s insurance department can investigate claims involving bad-faith handling.
• If necessary, consult an attorney who specializes in insurance claims for legal support.
• A public adjuster can assist with complaints, guide your next steps, and help escalate claims when legal action is needed.

Prevent Future Claim Denials

While appealing a denied claim is possible, being proactive can help prevent future issues:

• File your claim as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing.
• Capture detailed photos and videos of the damage once it’s safe to do so.
• Partner with a public adjuster to ensure your claim is accurately filed and well-supported.

Why You Should Work with a Public Adjuster

Filing an appeal is time-consuming and complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. A public adjuster works for you—not the insurance company—to:

• Identify errors and unfair rejections by carefully analyzing your denial.
• Properly document all damage to build strong evidence for your claim.
• Advocate for the maximum payout by negotiating effectively with insurers.
• Stay on top of paperwork, deadlines, and communication to reduce stress.

Get the Settlement You Deserve

A denied insurance claim is not the end of the road. Understand your rights, present strong evidence, and work with a public adjuster to improve your chances of overturning a denial and securing compensation.

Have your assets or belongings been damaged due to a natural disaster or major damage event?
Click the “Get Assistance” button to begin the process—we are here to help!