What Your Policy Says

Your insurance policy is a contract between you and the carrier. It defines what is covered, what is excluded, the limits of coverage, and the conditions under which claims will be paid. The policy language — not the agent's verbal explanation — controls the outcome of your claim.

The policy is the only document that determines coverage. Adjusters, agents, and even supervisors cannot override the written terms. If there is a dispute, the policy language is what courts will interpret.

• Is the loss you are claiming covered under the applicable coverage section?
• Does any exclusion apply to the cause of loss?
• Are there endorsements that modify the base coverage?
• Have you met all conditions, including timely notice and proof of loss?

If the carrier has denied or underpaid your claim, compare their stated reason against the specific policy language. If the language is ambiguous, that ambiguity generally favors the policyholder.