Where can you get help when a homeowners insurance claim is denied?
Short answer. Start inside the insurer's own process by asking for the policy language behind the denial and requesting a reinspection with new evidence. For outside help, Georgia homeowners can turn to a reputable roofer for documentation, a licensed public adjuster for negotiation, an insurance attorney for coverage or bad faith disputes, and the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner for a free consumer complaint.
Help options, from cheapest to most involved
- Your agent. Free. An agent can explain the policy and sometimes get a file looked at again, though agents do not decide claims.
- A roofer's inspection. Often free. A reputable roofer can tell you whether storm damage exists and document it with photos. In Georgia the roofer cannot negotiate the claim for you.
- Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner. Free. Its consumer services staff take complaints and require the insurer to respond. See how to file a complaint.
- Public adjuster. Licensed by the state to represent you, paid a percentage of the settlement. Most useful on large or complicated claims. Compare roles in public adjuster vs roofer.
- Attorney. For wrongful denials, bad faith or large amounts. Many handle insurance cases on contingency. Ask about deadlines, since policies often limit how long you have to sue.
Bring this with you
- The denial letter and the full policy, including endorsements.
- The adjuster's estimate and photos, if provided.
- Your own photos, the storm date and any contractor report.
- A timeline of calls and emails.
Red flags
Anyone promising a guaranteed approval, asking for large fees up front, or offering to cover your deductible is a warning sign. The step by step version is in what to do after a roof claim denial.