Common Tactics Used by Insurers—And How to Respond
Chaos and bad luck doesn’t discriminate — but sadly, insurance companies often do. After windstorms, floods, or wildfires hit Washington communities, policyholders frequently face another disaster: claim denial.
At Bastion Law, we see this pattern time and again. Homeowners and business owners pay premiums for years, only to be left stranded when they need support most.
Here’s why it happens — and what you can do if your claim is denied.
1. Insurers Bank on Confusion After Chaos
In the aftermath of a natural disaster, emotions are high, documentation is scarce, and time is limited. Insurance companies know this. Some use the chaos to overwhelm policyholders with paperwork, deadlines, or requests that are nearly impossible to meet.
What to Do: Stay organized. Keep all correspondence and photos of damage. If your insurer isn’t responding or keeps changing requirements, that’s a red flag.
2. They Blame “Pre-Existing” or “Uncovered” Damage
Many post-disaster denials rely on slippery language: “wear and tear,” “windstorm vs. water damage,” or “earth movement exclusions.” These denials often hinge on subjective interpretation — and without legal help, policyholders are left without recourse.What to Do: Don’t accept a denial without explanation. Ask for the exact policy provision they’re citing — and get a second opinion from an attorney who understands Washington bad faith law.
3. They Delay, Hoping You’ll Give Up
Washington law requires insurers to act promptly and fairly. But some companies engage in “delay-and-dodge” tactics, waiting until you’re financially or emotionally exhausted. This is particularly damaging to small businesses trying to reopen or families trying to return home.What to Do: Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you sense stonewalling, talk to a legal team that will hold them accountable.
How Bastion Law Can Help
We’re not a settlement mill. We’re trial lawyers with a reputation for taking insurance companies to court — and winning.
If your property damage claim has been delayed or denied after a natural disaster, we can help you:
- Review your policy and claim denial
- Demand accountability under Washington’s Insurance Fair Conduct Act (IFCA)
- Seek damages for the insurer’s bad faith, not just the initial loss
Don’t let a disaster turn into financial ruin. Bastion Law fights for the insured across Washington — homeowners, landlords, and business owners alike. We know how insurers operate, and we know how to beat them at their own game.
Contact us today to speak with an insurance accountability attorney who will listen — and act.