Frustration Over Delayed Home Insurance Claim
Last November, my house flooded, and I filed a claim with Square One Insurance, who assigned me an independent adjuster. When we met on the day of the incident, she was reassuring and walked me through the necessary procedures.
However, since that day, reaching the adjuster has been nearly impossible. A week after the flood, I had to conduct emergency restoration because the adjuster didn’t stress the urgency of the situation, leaving me unsure of what to do.
For over three months, I’ve spent countless hours and sent numerous emails trying to contact the adjuster. I had to completely pack and move out for extensive renovations since the flooring needed to be replaced. The renovations started and finished in January, and I’m finally back home now.
I’ve covered almost $40,000 in expenses (excluding the emergency restoration) out of my own pocket, and I haven’t received a single cent in over three months.
Despite diligently following up with the adjuster, she rarely answers my calls and frequently fails to call me back, despite promising to do so. When I manage to reach her, she often talks over me when I express my concerns.
I escalated the issue to her manager, but he seemed annoyed and hasn’t been proactive in following up. The adjuster and the company already have a poor rating on Google, and I’m wondering where else I can take this complaint.
This situation is causing me significant stress. I’m depleting my savings and may need to take out a loan, all while feeling anxious about when and how much I’ll be reimbursed.
I’m really sorry to hear about your struggles with the insurance claim process. It’s incredibly frustrating to deal with delays, especially after such a traumatic event like flooding. Here are a few steps you could consider to escalate your situation further:
Contact the Insurance Regulator: Most regions have a governmental agency that oversees insurance companies. Filing a complaint with them can sometimes prompt a quicker response from the insurer.
Consumer Protection Agency: Look into contacting your local consumer protection agency. They can sometimes help mediate disputes between consumers and companies.
Seek Legal Advice: If the amount involved is significant (like your $40k), consulting with a lawyer who specializes in insurance claims might be worthwhile. They can offer guidance on your rights and any potential legal actions.
Social Media: Sometimes taking your issue public on social media platforms can get the attention of the company. Companies often monitor their online reputation closely and might respond more promptly to public inquiries.
Documentation: Keep detailed records of everything. Document every call, email, and interaction you’ve had with the adjuster and their manager. Having everything organized will help strengthen your case if you choose to escalate it.
File a BBB Complaint: If you haven’t already, consider filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Companies usually take these complaints seriously as it affects their reputation.
Look for Ombudsman Services: In some areas, there are ombudsman services set up specifically for insurance claims, which can provide assistance.
Stay persistent and keep advocating for yourself. You deserve to be treated fairly and to receive the support you need during this difficult time. Good luck!