Insurance Company Denies Payment for My Elderly Parents
My nearly 80-year-old parents are facing a frustrating issue with their insurance company, which is refusing to pay out. They are requesting an “itemized bill” for the work done before they will release any payment.
Recently, my parents fell victim to unscrupulous builders who removed the roof of their garage without permission. This incident has been reported to the police, and an investigation is currently underway. Fortunately, a reputable contractor has since fixed the damage, but this came at a significant cost—costs we believed would be covered by their insurance policy.
While the policy clearly states that it covers malicious acts of vandalism, the insurance company is now insisting on an itemized bill for the repairs. However, the contractor who completed the work doesn’t provide itemized invoices since he sources materials in bulk and can’t give precise pricing for each item.
Is this a common practice among insurance companies? Does anyone have suggestions on how we might recover these costs, which amount to approximately $5,000? It’s disheartening to see elderly victims of crime treated this way.
I’m really sorry to hear about the situation your parents are facing. It sounds incredibly stressful, especially for elderly individuals who have already been through a difficult experience. Here are a few suggestions that might help you navigate this situation:
Requesting Documentation: While it’s unfortunate that the repair builder can’t provide an itemized bill, it’s still important to communicate with the insurance company. You might ask if they would accept a detailed invoice from the builder outlining the work completed, the materials used, and perhaps a general estimate of costs based on the average prices in your area.
Estimates and Quotes: If the builder can’t provide an itemized bill, consider getting a written estimate or quote from them or another contractor who can detail what the work would typically cost. This could help fulfill the insurance company’s request.
Insurance Broker Assistance: If your parents have an insurance broker, reaching out to them may help. Brokers often have more leverage in negotiations with insurance companies and can advocate on behalf of policyholders.
Formal Complaint: If the insurance company continues to insist on an itemized bill that isn’t feasible, you might consider filing a formal complaint with them, outlining the circumstances and the struggle your parents are experiencing.
Consumer Rights Organizations: Contacting organizations like Citizens Advice can provide guidance on consumer rights and advice on how to deal with insurance companies.
Legal Advice: If the situation doesn’t improve, consulting with a legal professional who specializes in insurance claims could be beneficial. They can provide specific advice and determine if there is a potential case for negligence.
It’s disheartening to see elderly individuals having to fight for what is rightfully theirs following a crime. I hope these suggestions help your family find a resolution.