Q.  The insurance company has non-renewed my homeowner's policy. Can they do that?

A.  Your company can non-renew for any reason. The law has two requirements, which must be met: 30 days advance notice and the precise reason stated. Section 38-75-740. See exception next.

Q.  My company has non-renewed my homeowner's policy for claims. My only claims have not been my fault. Can they do that?

A.  If your only claims have been ACTS OF GOD, the law will not allow non-renewal for your claims history. Section 38-75-790.

Q.  I just took out a new homeowner's policy and the company has notified me they are going to cancel my policy.

A.  During the first 90 days an insurance company can cancel for ANY reason. The law only requires 30 days notice be given. Section 38-75-730(e).

Q.  I have had my homeowner's policy for five months and now the insurance company says they are going to cancel because I had claims with my other company.

 A.  If you did not answer all questions correctly on the application, a company can mid-term cancel for material misrepresentation of facts. Section 38-75-730. The company must give thirty days notice and the reason must be stated.

 Q.  I have a homeowner's policy. Is my home covered for damages caused by high winds or tornadoes?

A.  Most homeowner policies cover damages to the dwellings caused by tornadoes or other wind damage. The homeowner policy covers the dwelling and personal contents items inside the home. The homeowner policy also covers storage buildings and other outside structures on the insured premises including personal items inside the building.

Q.  Am I covered for wind damage if I have a mobile home policy?

 A.  Most mobile home policies will cover losses caused by wind. Storage buildings on the same premises of mobile home are also generally covered under the mobile home. Most mobile home policies will also cover additional living expenses for the homeowner and his family if the mobile home was damaged by a covered loss such as wind.

Q.  Will the damages, caused to my home by flood or rising water, be covered under my homeowner policy?

 A.  Most homeowner and fire policies, with extended coverage, will not cover flood damages or claims resulting from rising water. Generally, a homeowner would need a flood insurance policy from the National Flood Insurance Plan to have protection for this type of loss.

 Q.  What must I do after a loss occurs to my home or other property?

 A.  The homeowner's policy requires the owner to protect his property from further damage following a loss. Generally, the cost of protecting the property from further damage is covered. An example of the expenses covered includes: tarps, polyethylene, lumber, shingles, sidings, etc. The homeowner should also begin making a list of damaged items for the insurance company. This will allow for the claim to be handled in a timely manner.

 Q.  How long should I wait for the insurance company to handle my homeowner's claim?

 A.  Most individuals with insurance claims receive contact from the insurance adjuster within 48 hours after the claim is reported. The resolution period, of a claim will vary, depending upon how extensive the damage from a catastrophe. Generally, the insurance adjuster will schedule a time to meet with the homeowner and adjust the loss.

 Q.  Will my insurance policy pay for my family to live somewhere else while my damaged home is being repaired?

 A.  Most homeowner policies include coverage for additional living expenses. This coverage is designed to cover additional living expenses while repairs are being made to the damaged home. The company/agent should be contacted immediately.

 Q.  If the insurance company and I can not agree on the amount that it will take to repair my home, do I have to file suit?

 A.  No, your first step should be to utilize the appraisal provision of your policy. You will find it under "Selection I---- Conditions" of your policy contract.