While your homeowner’s insurance is supposed to cover sudden and accidental damage, navigating the claims process can quickly become a frustrating experience especially if you’ve had water or plumbing damage. The list of policy exclusions accompanying these types of claims can be extensive and catch many homeowners unaware. What’s more, insurance companies also like to use exclusions as an easy for denying coverage, but not all plumbing damage is excluded.
Whether your claim is delayed, underpaid or denied altogether, an attorney experienced in Colorado insurance disputes can make a big difference to your claim’s outcome. Read more about the many ways an attorney can help you with your plumbing damage claim.
When to Call an Attorney for a Water Damage Claim
Water damage caused by plumbing leaks or other issues come with many gray areas in the insurance world. Some situations may be covered, others will be denied, and these decisions will boil down to the fine-print in your insurance policy.
If you believe the way your claim is being handled does not jibe with your policy terms, it may be time to call a lawyer. Denials, delays and low-ball settlements could be signs of bad faith insurance practices and are against the law.
Colorado has laws in place to protect homeowners from unfair practices by insurance companies. The Colorado Division of Insurance requires insurance companies to act in good faith when handling claims. Seek legal help immediately if you suspect that your insurance company is engaging in bad faith practices.
Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer for Your Plumbing Damage Claim
Hiring a lawyer for your water damage claim in Colorado can provide several key advantages. From interpreting the complex language of your homeowner’s insurance policy to negotiating with the insurance company, a lawyer ensures you’re not shortchanged in the claims process. Here are some of the ways they support and advocate for you:
- Review your insurance policy – An attorney will help you understand the specific terms of your policy and, if there are any exclusions, explain how they may apply to your claim
- Negotiate with the insurance company – If the insurer is delaying, underpaying or denying your claim, a lawyer will keep them in check in terms of abiding by the law and can negotiate on your behalf to ensure a fair settlement.
- Challenge unfair claim denials – You have the right to appeal a denied claim. An attorney can represent you during this process and advise you on your legal rights and options.
- Litigation – If negotiations with your insurer break down, an attorney can represent you in court to seek the compensation you deserve.
At Kandell, Kandell & Petrie, we specialize in assisting Colorado homeowners with their insurance claim questions and disputes. If you run into a roadblock with your plumbing damage claim, contact us today to speak to one of our Denver claims advisors to discuss your questions and concerns.
