Insurance Bad Faith Property Damage Attorney in Metairie, LA

If your insurance company delays, denies, or underpays your valid claim, we'll fight for the compensation you're owed.

Homeowners pay premiums expecting help after a disaster-not resistance. But some insurance companies use tactics to avoid paying full property damage claims. This behavior isn't just unfair-it may be bad faith. At The Law Office of Bruce C. Betzer, we represent Metairie homeowners who've been mistreated by their insurance companies after fires, storms, or other losses. If your insurer is dragging its feet or wrongfully denying coverage, we're here to help you push back.

Signs Your Insurance Company May Be Acting in Bad Faith

01.

Unreasonable Delays

If your insurer keeps asking for more paperwork, fails to respond, or simply drags out the process with no clear reason, they may be acting in bad faith.


Tip: Document all communications with your insurer from day one.

If your claim keeps getting stalled, we can help move things forward.

02.

Unfair Denials or Lowball Offers

Insurers sometimes deny claims without valid justification or offer far less than what's needed to make repairs. That's not acceptable.

Tip: Get a second opinion on the value of your damage from a licensed contractor.

Don't accept less than what you're owed. Let's review your denial today.

03.

Pressure to Settle Quickly or Quietly

Some insurers rush claimants into low settlements or ask them to sign away rights. You should never feel pressured to settle.

Tip: Never sign anything without understanding your rights.

We'll explain what you're signing-and what they're trying to avoid.

What's Typically Covered

Bad faith property damage claims may arise from insurance mishandling after events like:

  • House fires
  • Hurricanes or windstorms
  • Roof or structural damage
  • Vandalism or theft
  • Water or flood damage

If your valid claim was mishandled, we'll investigate whether your insurance company acted unlawfully and fight for the full payout you deserve.

Who Can Be Held Liable

In bad faith insurance cases, the liable party is typically your insurance carrier. However, specific agents or adjusters may also be involved if they misrepresented your policy or intentionally delayed action. We'll hold every party accountable.

Understanding Bad Faith Under Louisiana Law

 Insurance companies are legally required to act in good faith and deal fairly with policyholders. Under Louisiana law, bad faith can involve:

  • Misrepresenting policy provisions
  • Failing to act promptly and reasonably

Failing to pay within 30 days after agreement to settle
We help determine whether your case meets the legal standard-and what your insurer is obligated to do.


Basic Elements of a Valid Bad Faith Claim

To succeed in a bad faith property damage case, we typically need to show:

  • You had a valid insurance policy
  • You submitted a legitimate claim
  • The insurer unreasonably delayed, denied, or underpaid
  • You suffered financial harm due to their conduct

Our team will gather correspondence, adjuster reports, repair estimates, and more to support your claim.


Damages in a Bad Faith Case

If your insurer acted in bad faith, you may be entitled to more than the original claim amount. We pursue compensation for:

  • Full repair or replacement costs
  • Additional living expenses (if displaced)
  • Penalties and statutory damages
  • Attorney's fees
  • Emotional distress or inconvenience

FAQ

  • How do I know if my insurance company acted in bad faith?

    If they've delayed, denied, or underpaid your claim without justification-or ignored communications-you may have a case. We'll review your claim for free.

  • What's the difference between a regular denial and bad faith?

    A regular denial may be legitimate. A bad faith denial is unreasonable or done with dishonest intent. We'll help determine which one applies.

  • Can I still file a lawsuit if I already accepted part of a payment?

    Maybe. If the payment was partial and you were misled or pressured into accepting it, you may still have a claim. Let's take a look.

  • How long do I have to file a claim?

    In most cases, Louisiana gives you one year to file a bad faith lawsuit-but it depends on the details. Don't wait to get answers.

  • Do I need a lawyer for this type of case?

    Yes. Insurance companies have legal teams and resources to protect their bottom line. We level the playing field and fight for your rights.

Stand Up to Insurance Bad Faith with Legal Help That Works

If your insurer has delayed, denied, or underpaid your valid property damage claim, you don't have to accept it. Our team has experience fighting back-and winning. We'll review your case, explain your rights, and fight to get what you're owed.

 Call now for a free consultation with a Metairie bad faith property damage attorney.