What to Do If Your Insurance Company Underpays Your Insurance Claim
- Kyle Staggs
- Feb 14
- 2 min read
Dealing with property damage is stressful enough without the added frustration of an underpaid insurance claim. If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to know that you have options to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Understand Why Your Insurance Claim Was Underpaid
Begin by identifying the reasons behind the underpayment. Common causes include:
Incomplete Damage Assessment: The insurance adjuster may have overlooked certain damages.
Coverage Disputes: Disagreements over whether specific damages are covered under your policy.
Policy Misinterpretation: The insurer might interpret policy language or exclusions in a way that limits payouts.
Low Repair Estimates: The insurer's repair estimates may not reflect current market rates for labor and materials.
Review your claim documents thoroughly to pinpoint where discrepancies may have occurred.
Request a Claim Reassessment
If you believe the underpayment resulted from an error or oversight, contact your insurance company to request a reassessment. Provide additional documentation, such as detailed repair estimates, photographs, or invoices, to support your case. Clear and professional communication is key. Ensure you adhere to any deadlines for filing supplemental claims, as timely submission is crucial.
Consider Hiring a Public Adjuster
If the insurer remains unresponsive or you disagree with their assessment, hiring a public adjuster can be beneficial. Unlike insurance company adjusters, public adjusters work on your behalf to provide an independent evaluation of the damage. They can offer a comprehensive assessment that may support your claim for a higher payout.
Explore Mediation Options
Mediation is a non-adversarial way to resolve disputes with your insurance company. This process allows you to settle disagreements in an informal setting with the assistance of a neutral mediator. Engaging in mediation can often lead to a fair resolution without the need for litigation.
Consult a Property Damage Attorney
If your insurance company continues to underpay or denies your claim, consulting with a property damage attorney is advisable. An experienced attorney can:
Negotiate with the Insurer: Advocate on your behalf to seek a fair settlement.
File a Bad Faith Claim: If the insurer is acting unfairly or unlawfully, an attorney can pursue a bad faith claim against them.
Represent You in Court: If necessary, your attorney can litigate the case to ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to.
Acting Quickly is Crucial
Acting promptly is essential, as delays can weaken your case. By taking these proactive steps, you can work towards securing the compensation needed to repair your property and move forward.
If you're facing an underpaid insurance claim, don't navigate this challenging process alone. Seeking professional assistance can make a significant difference in achieving a fair resolution. Contact Kyle Staggs, Esq. today for expert legal guidance and take the next step toward fair compensation.