Dispelling Myths: Why Homeowners Shouldn’t Fear Filing Insurance Claims

 

As a dedicated advocate for insured homeowners for over a decade, I’ve encountered a recurring issue: many property owners are hesitant to file insurance claims out of fear that their premiums will increase or that they’ll be “dropped” by their insurance company. Unfortunately, this misconception is not only widespread but also appears to be intensifying. It seems that insurance companies have effectively instilled a sense of fear in the public, discouraging them from utilizing the very coverage they pay for.

But let’s take a step back and ask ourselves – why should anyone be afraid to use a service they’ve been faithfully paying for? The truth is, insurance exists to protect your investment, particularly in the aftermath of damaging events like storms, plumbing issues, mold, etc.

One of the most critical points homeowners need to understand is that insurance companies cannot single you out for filing a legitimate claim. They cannot legally increase your premiums or “drop” your coverage for this reason alone. In fact, they will most likely raise your premiums despite filing a claim or not as they raise premiums geographically, not individually.

Another alarming tactic we’ve observed is insurance companies sending letters threatening non-renewal unless the homeowner pays out of pocket for a new roof. When my clients receive these letters, their first call is to me. In nearly every case, I’ve been able to get the insurance company to cover the cost of a new roof entirely. To me, those letters are nearly a confession by the insurer that they know they actually owe for a new roof but want to give the impression that they don’t owe for one. Often, these letters claim your roof is too old and uninsurable, but the truth is that insurers may already know your roof has endured damage covered by your policy. This is why it is crucial to have an expert on your side to interpret these communications and advocate for your rightful coverage.

At Trust Public Adjusting Group, we are here to help. Our mission is to be your advocate, offering free property inspections and policy reviews to ensure you are fully informed and protected. Don’t let fear hold you back from filing a claim. Contact us today to learn more about your rights as a policyholder and how we can support you every step of the way.