When you purchase a house, getting home insurance is the next logical step to take. However, it is imperative to read your policy carefully. You need to know the exact terms and conditions that are required to file a home insurance claim  West Texas Insurance Agency can assist you with understanding your policy so that your insurance claims are not denied. Here are some common reasons that a home insurance policy company may deny your claim. 

Not Filing Your Claim in Time and Not Having an Inventory of Your Belongings

Texas law states that you need to file home insurance claims within 15 days. This is because filing an insurance claim is a time-sensitive manner. Insurance companies need to see that damage incurred because of a specific reason that is covered in your policy. Claims are often rejected if the homeowner doesn’t have a comprehensive list of their property and the value of each item. It is a good idea to do a home inventory checklist as soon as you purchase your new premium.   

Making Late Payments or Missing Payments 

If you are late on paying your insurance premium or missed a payment, a lapse in coverage might have occurred. If something happens when your home insurance policy has lapsed because of nonpayment, then your not covered until you catch up on the balance that you owe. Getting calendar reminders, or setting up automatic payments, can help avoid getting an insurance claim denied. 

It is Not Covered in Your Policy or is Negligence of a Contractor or Someone Else 

If you hire a contractor and they cause significant damage to your property, it is your responsibility to pay it. You are responsible for the people that come in and out of your house or on your land. The reason for homeowners insurance is to protect what you own from circumstances that are out of your control. You can control, however, if your home is properly maintained. An insurance company isn’t liable for damage caused by negligence to maintain the basic upkeep and repairs necessary as a property owner. 

Other Reasons that a Claim Can be Denied   

Your policy clearly outlines what is and isn’t covered. If your home in Amarillo, TX incurs damage or mold from a water leak that is continuous, your claim may be denied. It will only cover these situations if it is caused by a covered risk in your policy. Your policy will also outline how long you can be vacant from the property and still be covered in case of damages due to vandalism, theft, or other instances that may occur. Earthquakes are also not covered. Wind and hail storm damage art covered when it affects your actual home or belongings, but no damage to trees and shrubs. Contact West Texas Insurance Agency to speak to an agent who will explain your policy to you in detail. They will clearly detail what your rights are as a homeowner who wishes to file an insurance claim.