Mediation Program Now in Play for Sandy-Battered Homeowners to Challenge Insurance Companies
(Long Island, NY) Homeowners struggling to rebuild after Sandy can now take claim disputes with insurance companies (those covering damages from wind and fire, NOT auto and NOT flood settlements) can make use of a mediation program run by the NYS Department of Finance.
While FEMA handles flood settlements, much of the damage caused by Sandy involved wind and many of those claims are still unresolved. Insurers must notify homeowners of the state’s new mediation program if any part of a Sandy claim is denied. If the policyholder requests mediation, the insurer must contact the American Arbitration Association. Mediation can be conducted by phone or video conference and homeowners do not have to accept the findings.
For more information call the Department of Financial Services Insurance Hotline: 800-339-1759
