Can my insurance company drop my home insurance policy after I attempted to file my first claim in 5 years?
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Can my insurance company drop my home insurance policy after I attempted to file my first claim in 5 years?
I have been with my current insurance company for 5 years. Recently, I tried to file a claim to get my roof replaced due to hail damage. They denied the claim and I get a letter yesterday stating that they are not renewing my insurance. They knew how old my roof was when they insured me and even had pictures.
Asked on December 8, 2011 under Insurance Law, Texas
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Review your policy, including especially the small print. The insurance policy is a contract, and the parties to it (you and the insurer) are bound by its terms. If the policy gives the insurer the right to cancel at more-or-less any time, they can do this--and most policies do.
However, you do not have to necessarily accept the insurer's denial of your claim; if you feel that they should have paid under the terms of the policy, you could sue them to force them to honor their obligation. If the amount at stake is several thousand dollars, hire an attorney to help you--there are lawyers who specialize in this. If it's several hundred dollars, you might represent yourself instead (e.g. in small claims court). Good luck.
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