Most insurance policyholders find that their claims are paid quickly and fairly. However, if you are not satisfied with how your claim is being settled, consider the following steps:

• Contact the claims supervisor or manager Keep lines of communication open and continue to work with your company by asking to speak to the adjuster's supervisor or manager.
  
• Talk to your agent or company representative. Tell your representative about your problem and ask them to intercede on your behalf.
• Go straight to the top. If you still are unhappy, write to the head of the claims department or the president of the company. Send a letter explaining the situation with copies of supporting documents. Remember to send only a copy and not any original documentation.
• Contact your State Department of Insurance. Explain the reasons for the disagreement to the consumer representative at your DOI. He or she will investigate your claim and will help to resolve any differences you may have with your insurer.
• Hire an independent appraiser. This process is explained in your policy. You hire an independent appraiser and your insurance company also hires one. Together the appraiser chooses an "umpire." The decision of any two of these people is binding. You and your insurer each pay for your own appraiser and share the other costs.

Source: Insurance Information Institute

In conclusion

After your claim has been settled and repairs are underway, take some time to evaluate your Homeowners or Auto Insurance coverage. Talk with your insurance agent or company about possible changes.

If you have questions regarding your coverage, making a claim or settling a claim, call your insurance agent or your company. To request a free brochure, Settling Insurance Claims After A Disaster, order it online through NW Insurance Council's Brochure Catalog.