Handling Denied Claims for Storm Damage to Commercial Properties
Storm damage to commercial properties in Washington State can be devastating, from wind-torn roofs in Seattle to flood-impacted warehouses in Spokane. With severe weather events on the rise—such as the 2024 bomb cyclone that caused millions in damages and led to FEMA denials for state aid—business owners are increasingly turning to insurance for recovery. Yet, denials are common, leaving companies facing repair costs and operational downtime. The Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) recovered nearly $101 million for consumers in the 2023-2025 biennium through complaint resolutions, highlighting the value of challenging unfair practices. Under Washington's Insurance Fair Conduct Act (IFCA, RCW 48.30.015), you can fight back against unreasonable denials, potentially recovering benefits, treble damages, and attorney fees. As a plaintiffs attorney specializing in denied commercial insurance claims in Washington, we help businesses navigate storm-related disputes to secure rightful compensation. This guide covers how to handle denied claims for storm damage to commercial properties, common pitfalls, and when to seek legal help.
In 2025, as insurance frustrations mount post-storm, knowing your rights under state law is key to protecting your investment.
Common Reasons Insurers Deny Storm Damage Claims for Commercial Properties
Insurers often deny storm claims citing policy specifics, but many are challengeable. Washington's regulations require clear explanations for denials, and ambiguities favor the policyholder. Typical reasons include:
Policy Exclusions - Damage from floods or earth movement may be excluded unless endorsed; wind or hail is usually covered, but insurers might argue otherwise.
Lack of Maintenance or Pre-Existing Issues - Claims denied as "wear and tear" rather than sudden storm damage, like unrepaired roofs worsening in wind.
Insufficient Documentation - Missing photos, estimates, or proof of loss forms lead to rejections.
Timeliness Problems - Late filings or failure to mitigate further damage post-storm.
Business Interruption Denials - Lost income claims rejected without proper valuation, especially in commercial settings.
If the denial feels unjust, it may constitute bad faith, actionable under IFCA.
Step-by-Step Guide: Handling a Denied Storm Damage Claim in Washington
Act quickly—Washington policies often have short appeal windows, and statutes of limitations apply. Follow these steps:
Review the Denial Letter Carefully - Insurers must provide written reasons; note policy citations and deadlines. Look for vagueness, which could indicate bad faith.
Gather Strong Evidence - Collect photos, videos, contractor estimates, weather reports, and maintenance records to counter denial reasons. Document all insurer interactions.
Consider Filing an Internal Appeal - Consider submitting a detailed appeal with evidence; insurers must respond promptly under state regs.
Consult a Denied Claim Lawyer and Consider Litigation - If appeals fail, hire an attorney to send an IFCA notice (20 days before suing) and pursue bad faith action.
Recognizing Bad Faith in Storm Damage Denials
Bad faith includes unreasonable delays, inadequate investigations, or misrepresentations. In commercial storm claims, watch for undervalued business losses or ignored evidence. Successful suits can yield extras like exemplary or punitive damages.
When Should You Sue Your Insurer for a Denied Storm Claim?
If bad faith is evident and appeals fail, sue under IFCA for recovery beyond policy limits.
Secure Your Recovery: Contact a Washington Denied Storm Claim Lawyer Today
A denied storm damage claim for your commercial property in Washington isn't final. By reviewing, appealing, and enlisting legal help, you can enforce your rights under IFCA. At Hogue Law Firm, we advocate for businesses statewide against unfair denials.
Schedule a free consultation—call 509-934-1998 or fill out our online form. Don't let storm damage derail your operations.