Appeal Letter for Denied Homeowners Claims

If you’ve had a homeowners insurance claim denied, you’ll need to write an appeal letter if you’d like to contest that denial. 

It’s important that your appeal letter is clear, thorough, and includes supporting evidence. If you take care with this process, your appeal effort is more likely to be successful.

Template for a Homeowners Claim Appeal Letter

Below, we’ve provided a basic template for formatting an appeal letter. You should also review your insurer’s website to see if they offer their own template. Specific requests from an insurer regarding the appeal process should usually override more general advice. 

Broadly, you should consider your letter to be made up of three sections:

1. Opening Paragraph

• To begin, acknowledge that you received a claim denial from your insurer in neutral terms. Avoid emotional or vitriolic language.
• Summarize the claim you made and the reasons for the denial. Don’t use any language that might imply the denial of your claim was valid.

2. Body Paragraphs

• The overall goal of your body paragraphs is to provide a detailed explanation of why your claim should be approved.
• When possible, reference policy language to support your case.
• Present evidence, photographs, video references, and relevant documentation when appropriate.
• Highlight any new evidence that should be considered, especially where it addresses issues noted in the letter of denial you received.
• Emphasize any additional context that might have been missed.
• Show how the claim aligns with the intent of your insurance policy.

3. Closing Paragraph

• Briefly express appreciation for the opportunity to appeal and the thorough consideration of what you have noted in your letter.
• Politely request a prompt, thorough reevaluation of the claim based on the information you have provided in your letter.
• Provide contact information for any further communication.

Sending the Letter

Once your letter is drafted and edited, you’re ready to appeal. Send your letter through your preferred method, whether by email, mail, or through an online portal, unless your insurance company notes a method they prefer. Keep a copy of the letter for your records and note when the letter was sent.

As discussed earlier, make sure to follow up with your insurer to confirm receipt of your letter. If possible, get proof of this interaction. Often, the easiest way to do this is through email, as it will provide proof that you both sent a message and received (or didn’t receive) a response.

What Happens if Your Appeal Is Rejected?

If your appeal isn’t successful, that doesn’t necessarily mean you cannot receive payment for your claim, but it does mean it will become more difficult to do so. 

You may want to contact your state’s insurance department and inquire about how to submit a complaint if you believe your insurer was acting unethically or in a way that was otherwise illegal. You may also wish to consider legal action. 

If your appeal wasn’t successful, you may want to seek professional legal advice to fully understand your options and your likelihood of success if you pursue those options.