A strong storm can damage a roof, siding or windows in just a few minutes. After filing a homeowners insurance claim, many Oklahoma homeowners expect their policies to cover the repairs. However, an insurer may deny some or all of a claim if it determines that wear and tear, rather than the storm, caused the damage. The cause of the property damage can therefore become central to whether the policy provides coverage.
Why storm damage claims are disputed
Homeowners insurance policies generally cover sudden damage from hail, straight-line winds and tornadoes. They usually do not cover gradual deterioration, weather exposure or poor maintenance. After a storm, the insurance company inspects the property and decides if the destruction resulted from the storm or from existing conditions. If the insurer believes that wear and tear caused some or all of the damage, it can deny that portion of the claim or reduce the payment.
Signs to review the decision more closely
A homeowner might want to ask questions when the insurer:
- Attributes storm damage to wear and tear without a clear explanation
- Gives a repair settlement that is much lower than other estimates
- Conducts only a brief inspection before denying part of the claim
- Does not identify the policy language supporting the decision
- Delays responding to questions about the claim
These issues do not always prove bad faith, which can involve an insurer unreasonably denying, delaying or mishandling a valid claim. However, they may give a homeowner reason to review how the insurer handled the claim more closely.
Learning about the claim process
Oklahoma law requires insurers to investigate, evaluate and process covered claims in good faith and in accordance with applicable law. Homeowners should keep photographs of the damage, inspection reports, repair estimates and written communications related to the claim. These records may become important when questions about insurance bad faith arise during the claim process.
