Key points
- Ask for the denial and the policy section it relies on in writing.
- Compare the reason with your policy wording — exclusions are specific.
- Gather your documentation: photos, moisture readings, the written scope and invoices.
- For disputes, consider talking to your agent, a public adjuster or an attorney. General information, not legal or insurance advice.
Common reasons claims are denied
- The damage is considered gradual or long-term rather than sudden — see sudden vs. gradual water damage.
- The cause is excluded, such as sewer backup without an endorsement or outside flooding without flood insurance — see sewer backup coverage and flood insurance in Utah.
- The loss wasn’t reported or mitigated promptly.
- Not enough documentation to show what happened.
What to do next
- Get it in writing. Ask for the denial letter and the exact policy language it relies on.
- Read your policy. Check the coverage section and the exclusions the insurer cited.
- Gather evidence. Photos from the start, moisture readings, the restoration scope and invoices. Vault records moisture readings every day and writes the scope in Xactimate, which adjusters can review line by line.
- Ask for a review. Many insurers have an internal appeal or reconsideration process. Keep notes of every call — see what to ask your insurance adjuster.
- Get outside help if needed. Your agent, a public adjuster or an attorney can advise on disputes.
Don’t stop drying while you argue
Water left in place keeps causing damage and can lead to mold, which may not be covered. If the claim is in dispute, ask about paying for mitigation yourself first — financing is available through Wisetack, $500–$25,000 over 3–24 months, subject to approval. See financing and what happens if water damage isn’t fixed. General information, not legal or insurance advice.
Common questions
How long do I have to dispute a denial?
It depends on your policy and Utah law. Look for a time limit on lawsuits or appraisal in your policy conditions, and ask your agent or an attorney about your deadline before it passes. General information, not legal or insurance advice.
Can I file a complaint about my insurer?
Yes. The Utah Insurance Department accepts consumer complaints about how an insurer handled a claim.
Should I keep repairing while the claim is disputed?
Keep mitigating — stopping the water and drying — so the damage does not grow. Keep photos and samples of anything removed. Where you can, wait to start the full rebuild until the scope is agreed. General information, not legal or insurance advice.
Need documentation for your claim?
Call (385) 250-2825 — answered live 24/7 by the Vault crew.
Water damage restoration in Provo · Insurance claims · Financing