How to Communicate With Your Property Insurance Company in Fort Lauderdale
Effective communication is more important than many policyholders in Fort Lauderdale realize. Even the briefest of communications with your insurance company in Florida could have serious consequences. You should carefully consider the words you use while also avoiding unnecessary delays. If you want to communicate with your insurance company without unnecessary issues, consider letting a Fort Lauderdale property insurance lawyer speak on your behalf.
Be Careful About Phone Conversations
When filing a claim or communicating with your insurance provider, you have the option to contact them by phone. This could be a convenient option, especially if you don’t have much time to write an email. Multi-tasking is easier during phone calls, and you might call your insurance provider while driving or cooking.
However, you might want to contact your insurance provider in writing – especially if you’re filing a major claim for significant losses. It is easier to pick your words carefully through writing. When you speak to a representative by phone, your words might be more free-flowing and organic. During these verbal conversations, you might say something that could damage your chances of a positive outcome. For example, you might say something that makes the representative suspect that the damage is pre-existing.
You can avoid these misunderstandings by carefully drafting an email or letter – possibly with help from an experienced property insurance lawyer. Remember, any written communication could eventually find its way into court as evidence.
File Your Claim as Soon as Possible
Aside from the manner in which you communicate, you should also try to begin these communications as soon as possible. If your home recently suffered damage, you should let your insurer know right away. You can begin the process relatively easily – and you may not need a lawyer during this initial stage. Later, you can provide more details and go over the specifics of your claim. Prompt communication is important because the insurance company might try to deny your claim if you delay too long.
The Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange Report
Policyholders should be aware of something called the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange Report (CLUE). Most people are not aware of this report’s existence, but it is often a key resource for insurance companies. Even if you call your insurance provider and ask simple questions, any information you provide could be added to this report. It is all too easy to let something slip that the insurance company could use against you.
Excessive communication could affect your premiums, even if you never report any damage.
Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Property Insurance Lawyers Today
At Geyer Fuxa Tyler, our legal team is made up of a diverse combination of attorneys who are well-positioned to protect the legal rights and financial interests of policyholders. If your property insurance claim was denied, we can help. For a free consultation, please call us today at (954) 990-5251. With an office in Sunrise, we represent policyholders in Broward County and throughout the state of Florida.
Source:
investopedia.com/terms/c/clue-report.asp
