Umbrella Insurance - 1 more claim - Can't get one with the other.

[Marina Loos]

Earlier this year I tried to purchase umbrella insurance. I was told by State Farm and Progressive that since I had 2 previous claims (both in 2021) I would have to wait until 2023 to get approved. So now that 2023 is creeping in, a new issue occurred where I have to file another claim - this time on my duplex. Last month a tree that was on city property fell and hit a utility pole that in turn bent the riser on my roof. The Electrition stated that the riser technically does not have to be replaced because it is still functional, and there are no "kinks" that prevent it from working...yet...; however, the winter storms and ridiculously strong high winds we have here cause me to worry that the damage will eventually get worse.

He said that if he does fix it, he would have to replace the riser since its out of code, and would also have to replace the 2 meters that are also out of code and placed way too high.  The estimate was about $7000.

I decided to speak to someone at city hall first which was, of course, frustrating and made worse because the person was completely clueless and not helpful. She spoke to someone else about it and told me I'd have to hire and attorney to deal with it.

From what I have read about tree damages, I am still confused about what happens when a tree falls that is off my property, never had hung over my property, nor had I any knowledge of the trees health. 

Can anyone advise what if anything I should try before I contact my insurance company. Also, are there other insurance companies where I can get an umbrella insurance even with claims (3 in total with this issue) I have had in the past 2 years. -- None of the claims were frivolous 1 was for a house fire that was a complete re-do and one was for a roof.

thank you.

[John Mocker]

Marina,

The three losses you listed are all Property Losses.  The umbrella policy is strictly a Liability policy.  It provides coverage if the underlying Home, Dwelling/Fire (aka Landlord), personal Auto, etc. are exhausted in a covered claim.  So those losses should not a direct bearing on the Umbrella underwriting.  That being said, Insurance companies file their guidelines with the state.  They can use other claim data if they choose.  

I would contact several Independent Agents (represent multiple Insurance Carriers) and see if they can find you a company for the umbrella coverage.  I would suggest they check with PersonalUmbrella.com (they only work through agents so you can't access them directly) to see if they will consider it.