One of the nice things about having insurance is that it’s there when an accident or emergency happens. It’s frustrating, though, when the insurance you purchased doesn’t offer the benefits that you were promised.
If you purchased surge insurance in the past, then when a surge happens and your devices are damaged, you should have coverage. However, there are cases in which the insurance company may claim that the damage wasn’t a result of a surge or that you don’t meet the requirements to make a claim. This could be a bad-faith insurance tactic meant to prevent you from making a claim even when you have the right.
Why do homeowners need surge protection?
Surge protection is helpful because you never know when thunderstorms might lead to lightning and strikes that cause a power surge. While you might use surge protectors or think that your home will be protected in other ways, there is always a chance that a surge could damage your appliances or cause other problems.
Surge protection policies are usually affordable and don’t cost much each month, but that’s why you have to be cautious about the insurance you choose and the company you choose to work with. Good, complete coverage should discuss covering items such as:
- Your air conditioner
- Your oven or range
- Washers and dryers
- Refrigerators
- Your television
- Game consoles
- Computers, both desktop and laptop models
- Dishwashers
…and other appliances in your home.
Be cautious when you buy surge protection. You need to make sure the program covers the items you’re most worried about. Some policies cover only major appliances, for example, but others may cover smaller items, like gaming consoles. Read over your policy to make sure it covers the item you’re trying to get replaced.
If you believe the policy should cover what has been broken or burned out because of a surge, then you need to make sure you contact the insurance company and push for coverage. If they refuse your claim, then you may want to speak with an attorney about your options and see if the insurance company could be acting in bad faith. If it is, then your attorney may be able to help push your claim through or take the insurance company to court.