Homeowners Insurance
A house is the biggest investment for most Texans. Homeowners rely on home insurance to protect this investment in the event of an unexpected disaster. However, some homeowners are unaware of what their policy covers. While most homeowners know their insurance covers fire and water damage, most are shocked to find out their policy does not cover certain damage.
What is even more shocking is when an adjuster denies your claim or refuses to provide a reasonable
settlement. Speak with an insurance lawyer immediately if this is the case for you. They can investigate
the situation and negotiate with adjusters on your behalf.
Texas Insurance Attorney
Homeowners are quick to call their insurance company when their home is damaged. It is important, however, to consider that you may need the help of an insurance early in the claim process. The insurance lawyers at Beker Law can help evaluate your situation and ensure you provide the necessary claim information to help the adjuster evaluate your claim properly. Ms. Ahmed has experience litigating homeowners claims of all sizes. She is well prepared to help you through the claims process, negotiate with adjusters and represent you in court if needed.
Call 972-483-0410 to schedule a time to speak with Beker Law. We assist homeowners in counties throughout Texas
such as Dallas County and Collin County.
Types of Homeowners Coverage
Most homeowners are unaware their policy covers more than damage to the home. The majority of homeowner’s insurance in Texas include coverage for the following:
- Structure damage coverage: An insurance policy will pay for damage caused to a home, but only damaged caused by risks covered under the policy. Structures on your property that are not attached to the home are also covered. This can include fences, detached garages and garden
sheds. - Personal property coverage: Damaged personal property is covered by most insurance providers, but only to a point. Homeowners insurance will cover damaged, destroyed or stolen items such as furniture and clothing. You will likely need to purchase additional coverage for high value items.
- Loss of use coverage: This type of coverage pays for living expenses if you have to move while your house is being repaired. Living expenses that may be covered include rent, food and other expenses you would not have if you were living at home.
- Medical coverage: Most homeowners policies also cover medical bills for those injured on your property. This type of coverage may also pay for injuries that take place away from home such as your dog biting someone while on a walk.
- Personal liability coverage: Most homeowner’s insurance will pay for medical bills and other costs for individuals you are legally responsible for injuring. It also covers damage you caused to another’s property and court cost if you are sued because of an accident.
Not all insurance policies are the same. Be sure to read your insurance declaration to find out how much
your policy covers, what is covered and other key information about your coverage.
Damage Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance
Property damage is the primary reason homeowners purchase insurance on their home. This policy provides coverage for certain risks and perils that could damage a home or property. However, many homeowners are shocked to find out their policy only covers certain types of damage.
Listed below are types of property damage covered by most insurance policies:
- Fire damage
- Lightning damage
- Sudden and accidental water and smoke damage
- Explosions
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Malicious mischief
- Riots and civil commotion
- Damage caused by vehicles and aircrafts
The last thing you want to find out is that your insurance policy won’t pay for the damage to your home
because it is not covered. Damage that is not covered by most standard homeowner’s policies include:
- Flooding
- Mold
- Backed up sewage
- Sinkholes
- Damage caused by construction
- Insect or rodent infestations
- Damage or destruction to jewelry and fine art
- Continuous water leaks
- Wear and tear
- Losses that occur if you are away for the number of days specified by your policy
- Trampoline accidents
- Pool accidents
- Dog attacks from “aggressive breeds”
Your Rights as a Policyholder
You have rights as a policyholder, which are listed in the Texas Department of Insurance Bill of Rights.
If an insurance company infringes on these rights, you can sue them in civil court and seek additional
damage for your claim and attorney fees. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, an insurance
company cannot deny your claim or charge you more for any of the following reasons:
- Race, religion, color or national origin
- Age, gender, marital status, geographical location or disability
- Credit score
- Treat you differently than other people in your rate or risk class
The Texas Insurance Code also prevents insurance companies from engaging in unfair settlement practices. According to the statutes, a homeowner’s insurance provider cannot:
- Refuse to pay a claim without conducting a reasonable investigation
- Fail to provide a reasonable explanation for denying a claim
- Fail to provide a prompt, fair and equitable settlement
- Require you to provide a copy of your tax returns as a condition of a settlement
- Fail to confirm or deny coverage within a reasonable time
- Misrepresent policy provisions or information relating to the claim
Texas Insurance Lawyer
Was your homeowner’s claim denied? Are you having a tough time negotiating with adjusters? The attorneys at Beker Law have decades of experience in insurance law. With previous experience working with insurance companies, Ms. Ahmed is well versed in their negotiating tactics. She will use this experience to your advantage and fight to ensure you receive what you are entitled under the policy.
