Why Insurance Companies Deny Water Damage Claims — And How to Fight Back
In Washington, water damage can strike in unexpected ways: a failed sump pump, a burst pipe during a freeze, or a water supply line that cracks. For many homeowners, the financial burden doesn’t come from the damage itself — it comes from the insurance company’s refusal to pay.
Bastion Law represents Washington homeowners who’ve been sidelined by unfair insurance practices. If your insurer delayed, underpaid, or outright denied your claim for water damage, here’s what you need to know and how we can help.
1. Insurers Often Blame “Maintenance Issues” or “Pre-Existing Conditions”
Water damage claims are commonly denied under vague policy terms like “continuous, ongoing leak” or “lack of maintenance.” But in many cases, the insurer doesn’t have enough evidence to make that decision — and denials based on guesswork may violate Washington’s insurance laws.What to do: Ask for the specific policy language your insurer is using to deny your claim — and don’t accept a vague or verbal excuse without supporting evidence. We’ll review it with you.
2. Delays and Repeated Paperwork Requests Are a Red Flag
If your insurer keeps asking for the same documents, or weeks go by without updates, they may be trying to drag it out. Washington law requires prompt communication and investigation. Long delays can signal bad faith.
What to do: Keep detailed records of every communication. If the delays are piling up, legal intervention may be the next step.
3. Lowball Estimates Don’t Match Actual Repairs
One of the most common frustrations homeowners face is receiving an estimate far lower than what repairs actually cost. Insurance companies may overlook hidden damage or downplay repair scope — leaving you to cover the difference.
What to do: Get an independent damage assessment. If your insurer won’t adjust their offer, we can push for full and fair compensation.
4. Fast-Track Settlements May Come With Strings Attached
Be wary of settlement offers that come with pressure to sign quickly or waive future rights. These tactics are designed to close claims before you know your full legal and financial options – or the total costs ahead of you.
What to do: Don’t rush into a settlement. We’ll review any offer and make sure it’s in your best interest
How Bastion Law Can Help
Water damage shouldn’t drown your finances — especially if you’ve paid your premiums in good faith. If your claim was denied, delayed, or lowballed, you may have a case under Washington’s Insurance Fair Conduct Act (IFCA).
We’ve helped homeowners across the state recover what they’re owed — and hold insurers accountable when they try to cut corners.
Let’s review your claim and make a plan.
Think Your Water Damage Claim Was Wrongfully Denied?
Schedule a free consultation with Bastion Law. We fight for Washington homeowners — and we don’t stop until insurers pay what’s fair.