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Sunday April 18, 1999
Re: Problem with Allstate
Hello,
I am looking for help in pursuing something concerning a claim I made against my Home owners insurance policy. During a January snow storm, my Florida room roof could not hold up the 22'' of snow that we received.
My roof needs to be replaced. I found the original person who constructed it, as my insurance company claim person suggest that I do.
The problem lies here:
In order to bring it back to working conditions again, two contractors said the same thing, that the walls will also need to be replace. The new roof needs to be at an angle to meet the building code for my city, there are no parts available to my contractor to complete the job and using other parts, the roof would not have the support from the walls because of the gap there. It would be structurally unsound. The first major wind would blow it down.
My contractor told me that he would not be able to get a building permit based on how the insurance company wants it to be constructed (what they are willing to pay) and he would not give me a warranty because it would not be structurally sound.
I feel that my insurance company should pay to restore it to present day building codes. I have the obligation to my mortgage company and myself to keep my insurance up to present day conditions. I feel that my insurance company is responsible to pay, I have a deluxe home owners policy with a $100 deductible. Where can you direct me for help?
Sincerely yours,
Bonnie Williamson
11934 Townline Rd.
Grand Blanc, Mi. 48439
1-810-694-0306
Bonnie Williamson
MrFloyyd@aol.com
Grand Blanc, Mi., U.S.A.
Brefni's Response
The problem you face is the same problem faced by anyone making an insurance claim.
An insurance company doesn't care what you thought you were getting when you purchased insurance from them through your agent or broker.
They are only concerned with interpreting the policy to maximize their own advantage.
This is true where ever you live.
There is no where that I know to direct you for help. If you have the resources you should get legal advice. The dispute is between you and Allstate.
As long as Allstate complies with local insurance regulations it doesn't matter to your local insurance regulator whether you are getting what you paid for. It's not part of their mandate.
The insurance agent or broker who sold you your policy also has an obligation to see that you are getting the insurance coverage you were told you would get for the money you paid.
I wish you luck! Perhaps someone reading this posting can give you better and more hopefull advice. In the end it is a matter of Buyer beware! which is small comfort if you are in the position of needing to make a claim.
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