Your Settlement Offer Isn't Enough. You May Be Entitled to More.
Insurance companies routinely offer settlements that fall short of what repairs actually cost. If your insurer's estimate is less than your contractor's, you may have grounds to challenge the payment — and we can help.
No out-of-pocket fees unless recovery is made. Se Habla Español.
How We Help
Fighting Underpaid Storm Damage Claims in South Texas
One of the most common situations we see is a significant gap between what the insurance company offers and what a licensed contractor says it will actually cost to repair the damage. This gap isn't a coincidence — insurers have financial incentives to minimize claim payments, and their adjusters are trained to produce estimates that protect the company's bottom line.
An underpaid claim can leave you unable to complete necessary repairs, forced to cut corners, or paying thousands of dollars out of pocket for damage your policy was supposed to cover. Before you accept a settlement offer, it's worth understanding whether you're being shortchanged.
We review underpaid claims for South Texas homeowners and business owners — comparing the insurer's estimate to your contractor's, examining your policy, and identifying where the insurance company fell short. A free claim review costs you nothing and could make a significant difference in your outcome.
Know Your Rights
Common Insurance Company Tactics
Insurance companies use these tactics to reduce or deny valid claims. Knowing what to look for is the first step.
Low Adjuster Estimates
Producing estimates that don't reflect current material and labor costs in South Texas.
Depreciation Disputes
Applying excessive depreciation to reduce the actual cash value payment on your claim.
Scope of Damage Disputes
Limiting the scope of covered damage to reduce the total claim payment.
Partial Replacement
Paying for partial repair when full replacement is warranted by the extent of the damage.
Code Upgrade Exclusions
Refusing to cover the cost of bringing repairs up to current building codes.
Withheld Recoverable Depreciation
Failing to release withheld depreciation after repairs are completed.
Our Review Process
What We Look for in Your Claim
FAQ
Common Questions
What if I already accepted a partial payment from my insurer?
Accepting a partial payment does not necessarily mean you've waived your right to additional compensation, especially if you haven't signed a full release. Texas law provides certain protections for policyholders in this situation. Contact us before signing anything — the sooner you act, the more options you'll have.
What is the difference between actual cash value and replacement cost?
Actual cash value (ACV) is the depreciated value of the damaged property — what it was worth at the time of the loss, not what it costs to replace it. Replacement cost value (RCV) is the cost to repair or replace the damaged property with new materials of like kind and quality. If your policy provides replacement cost coverage, you are generally entitled to RCV, not ACV. We can review your policy to determine which applies.
My contractor says the insurance estimate is missing items. What can I do?
A contractor's estimate that includes items the insurer's adjuster missed is a common sign of an underpaid claim. We can review both estimates and your policy to determine whether you're entitled to additional compensation for the missed items.
Can I use the appraisal process to dispute an underpaid claim?
Many Texas homeowners policies include an appraisal clause that allows either party to demand an appraisal when there is a dispute about the amount of loss. The appraisal process can be an effective way to resolve underpaid claims. We can review your policy and advise whether the appraisal process is available and appropriate in your situation.
Related Practice Areas
Before You Settle, Know Your Rights.
Get a free claim review from Michael R. De Leon. No out-of-pocket fees unless a recovery is made. Serving all of South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley.
Not sure if you have a case? Start with a free review. Se Habla Español.