Home Insurance Forum

Nov. 5, 2007

I filed a claim in July and it still isn't settled. Isn't there a time limit on how long it takes to settle a claim? I had hired an adjuster originally because the insurance company's estimate was extremely low! Was that a smart thing to do?

James, Pennsylvania

Dear James,

Here's what Pennsylvania state law says about the length of time an insurance company has to settle a claim:

"Every insurer shall complete investigation of a claim within 30 days after notification of claim, unless the investigation cannot reasonably be completed within the time. If the investigation cannot be completed within 30 days, and every 45 days thereafter, the insurer shall provide the claimant with a reasonable written explanation for the delay and state when a decision on the claim may be expected."

Often, bringing in a public adjuster can increase the amount of time it takes to settle a claim. If you feel the insurance company low-balled you, you certainly have the right to seek assistance from an adjuster.

Is your insurer notifying you as to why it is taking so long to settle the claim? If not, you should call and find out what the problem is.

Melissa Fox, a spokesperson for the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance, recommends calling the department as soon as you can, either toll-free at (877) 881-6388 or, if you're in Harrisburg, (717) 787-2317. Someone in the department's consumer-services area should be able to help you clear up the problem.

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Disclaimer: We are journalists, not financial planners or insurance brokers. Nothing we say should be interpreted as a recommendation to buy or sell any insurance product, or to provide other financial or legal advice.