Helpful Tips!
If it’s unsafe, unhealthy, or can’t support your normal routine, it may qualify as unfit to live in under your policy.
Don’t assume your home is “livable” just because it’s still standing.
This could be a report from a doctor, contractor, home inspector, or other qualified professional.
Get documentation that proves why you can’t stay in your home.
Look for terms like “Loss of Use,” “Additional Living Expenses,” or “Fair Rental Value.”
Read your policy’s Coverage D section carefully.
You’ll need a paper trail for everything you want reimbursed—rent, hotel, moving expenses, etc.
Keep all receipts and proof of payment.
ALE is reimbursement-based—you pay first, then submit for repayment. Choose reasonable options that fit your needs.
Don’t overextend financially.
Save emails, texts, or documents showing why repairs are taking longer—especially if it’s not your fault.
Track every delay in the repair process.
Check your policy’s Declarations Page for the dollar amount listed under “Coverage D”—that’s your cap.
Know your ALE coverage limit.
Delays in reporting or documentation can seriously hurt your chances of getting reimbursed.
File your ALE claim as soon as possible.
You have the right to challenge their decisions—and with the right evidence, you can often turn a “no” into a “yes.”
Don’t take the insurance company’s word as final.
Your Home Isn’t Livable After a Disaster — Here’s How Insurance Can Help Cover Your Costs
Why Coverage D Matters—and How to Use It
When disaster forces you out of your home, the last thing you need is confusion about where you’ll live—or how you’ll afford it. The truth is, most homeowners insurance policies include coverage that can help with these exact situations… but it’s often buried in the fine print and misunderstood.
That’s what this video is all about.
If you’ve been displaced by fire, storm, or water damage, you may be entitled to reimbursement for the cost of temporary housing—whether that’s a hotel, short-term rental, or another safe place to stay. This is called Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage, and it falls under Coverage D of your policy.
But here’s the catch:
Insurance companies often delay, deny, or underpay these claims. Sometimes they argue your home is still “livable.” Other times, they say you didn’t provide enough documentation. In the meantime, you’re left paying out of pocket for a situation that wasn’t your fault.
I created this video to help you understand:
-
What ALE is and how it works
-
When it kicks in and how long it lasts
-
How to protect your claim with the right proof and paperwork
I've seen firsthand how powerful this coverage can be when it's used correctly—and how damaging it is when it's overlooked.
If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies or your insurance company is dragging its feet, you’re not alone. You deserve clear answers and a fair outcome.
Helpful Tips!
If it’s unsafe, unhealthy, or can’t support your normal routine, it may qualify as unfit to live in under your policy.
Don’t assume your home is “livable” just because it’s still standing.
This could be a report from a doctor, contractor, home inspector, or other qualified professional.
Get documentation that proves why you can’t stay in your home.
Look for terms like “Loss of Use,” “Additional Living Expenses,” or “Fair Rental Value.”
Read your policy’s Coverage D section carefully.
You’ll need a paper trail for everything you want reimbursed—rent, hotel, moving expenses, etc.
Keep all receipts and proof of payment.
ALE is reimbursement-based—you pay first, then submit for repayment. Choose reasonable options that fit your needs.
Don’t overextend financially.
Save emails, texts, or documents showing why repairs are taking longer—especially if it’s not your fault.
Track every delay in the repair process.
Check your policy’s Declarations Page for the dollar amount listed under “Coverage D”—that’s your cap.
Know your ALE coverage limit.
Delays in reporting or documentation can seriously hurt your chances of getting reimbursed.
File your ALE claim as soon as possible.
You have the right to challenge their decisions—and with the right evidence, you can often turn a “no” into a “yes.”
Don’t take the insurance company’s word as final.