Denied or Underpaid?

What to Do Before You Accept

When a storm tears through your neighborhood, the last thing you want is more stress from your insurance company. Unfortunately, many Texas homeowners and business owners discover that their property damage claim has been denied outright or underpaid.

It’s tempting to accept what’s offered just to move forward. But signing off too quickly can cost you thousands of dollars in repairs that should have been covered. Here’s what you should do before you accept a denial or low payment.

1. Read Your Denial Letter Carefully

Every denial or partial payment letter includes a reason — even if it’s written in confusing insurance language. Look for:

• Policy exclusions (e.g., “wear and tear” or “maintenance issues”)

• Disputed cause of loss (hail vs. pre-existing damage)

• Missing documents or inspections

Why it matters: The insurer must tell you why they denied or reduced payment. Sometimes the reason doesn’t match your actual damage or policy.

2. Gather Your Evidence

Your documentation is your strongest tool. Collect:

• Photos and videos of the damage (close-ups and wide shots)

• Repair estimates from licensed contractors

• A copy of your full policy and declarations page

• Notes of all conversations with adjusters

Tip: Don’t rely on the insurance adjuster’s photos alone. Independent documentation shows the true extent of your loss.

3. Don’t Sign or Cash Anything Yet

Cash checks labeled as “final payment” or signing settlement forms can close your claim permanently. If you believe your claim is undervalued, don’t lock yourself out of further recovery by accepting too soon.

4. Understand Your Options

In Texas, policyholders have several ways to dispute a denial or underpayment:

• Appraisal: Each side chooses an appraiser, and a neutral umpire decides.

• Mediation: A neutral mediator helps you and the insurer negotiate a settlement.

• Litigation: If necessary, filing suit to enforce your rights.

Each option has strict deadlines — especially with TWIA (Texas Windstorm Insurance Association) claims — so acting quickly matters.

5. Get a Free Claim Review

Insurance companies have experts protecting their bottom line. You deserve someone protecting yours. At Furlow Law Firm, we offer claim reviews to help you:

• Spot gaps in your denial letter

• Evaluate whether your payment is fair

• Decide the best next step — appraisal, mediation, or litigation

Bottom Line

A denied or underpaid claim isn’t the end of the road. With the right documentation and guidance, you can often recover the compensation your policy promised.

📞 Call us at (210) 910-4501 or visit furlowlawfirm.com for your claim review. Don’t leave money on the table — get clarity before you accept.