Letter: Insurance doesn't want to pay
Belongings moved outside to dry in Schoharie after a house was flooded from Tropical Storm Irene. (Aug. 30, 2011) Credit: Newsday/Ted Phillips
I'm tired of organized crime, and by that I mean the insurance companies. Anyone hit by Tropical Storm Irene and submitting a claim for coverage surely understands what I mean ["State to help file Irene damage claims," News, Sept. 7].
As a homeowner in a flood zone, I'm required by the bank that carries my mortgage to have flood insurance. I pay high premiums that creep higher over the years.
But put in a claim, and learn about loopholes. I try to understand why water seeping in from the ground is not covered in a flood. Perhaps I should ask the floodwater to be more courteous and enter through the front foyer.
Either way, when and if the insurance company can't find a way to weasel out and must actually cover damages, expect a steep deductible. Example: One hot-water heater will cost somewhere in the range of $900 to $1,200, which the insurance company will gladly cover -- after a $2,000 deductible. And then the company charges a higher premium.
There are many variables, but no difference in the way homeowners are taken advantage of by these bullies for a buck.
Maria DellaPorte, Long Beach
'The strategy that I'm seeing ... is very chaotic' A Newsday review of court records sheds new light on ICE's Long Island operation and where it's happening. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa, Shari Einhorn, investigative reporter Josefa Velásquez and attorney Reuben Kerben break it down.
