Welcome to HOI Exposed, Share your horror homeowners insurance stories here
We Educate, Empower & Inform Homeowners through sharing our stories with one another
View our videos on Youtube at HOI Exposed
Stop Being Pushed Around By Homeowners Insurance Companies!
Welcome to HOI Exposed!
Come On Our Podcast And Share Your Story! Post Your Narrative On This Website, Lets Work Together & Expose These Insurance Companies, And Learn From Each Other.
Hi, everyone, I'm John Dwayne, and I go by J.D. This introduction to HOI Exposed is to let you know who we are and what we do. HOI stands for Homeowners Insurance a common abbreviation used within the industry.
OUR MISSION: EMPOWER, EDUCATE & INFORM
HOI Exposed is a platform dedicated to exposing the pitfalls that insurance companies often use against their policy holders. I have dealt with two different insurance companies on two different occasions. After filing these claims it was apparent that insurance companies don't play fair. If it's not one thing with these insurance companies, its another. It's these experiences that have driven me to create this website. My driving force is to educate, empower and inform as many homeowners as possible of the things that homeowners may face after filing a claim against their homeowners insurance company. I'm not saying that all homeowners insurance companies act in bad faith, but we are here to expose that do. Everyday I read something new that insurance companies are doing against their policy holders. I believe we as homeowners make some sort of a stand and hold these insurance companies accountable.
A Platform for Education, not trying to sell you anything
Our platform is not here to try and sell you anything. Our mission is simple, we want to educate and empower fellow homeowners to the tactics that insurance companies use after you have filed claim against them. This website is made up of homeowners just like you and me. We are people that have either had to deal with insurance companies or perhaps will have to deal with them at some point in our lives.
Our strategy is simple, by sharing our stories, experiences with one another, we can help each other get through the complexities of the insurance claims process. The more we expose the unjust tactics that are often used on us, the better we can all be prepared. This is the reason that we want everyone to share their stories. Whether you share your stories through written narratives, video testimony or even being a guest on our podcast. Your experiences matter and they deserve to be heard.
Share Your Story & Help Others
We really want you to submit your experiences that you have had with your homeowners insurance company to HOI Exposed. Our goal is to provide a platform that we can share our journeys that some of us have endured to help others from making costly mistakes. If you decide to share your story, please rest assured that if you wish to remain anonymous, we completely understand. Also, we understand there may be various reasons for being in the shadows. For those that wish to share their stories and experiences whether it be on the fore front or anonymously we expect your stories to be truthful and please have as much documentation as possible to keep the integrity and creditability of this website in tact. This will ensure that our collective voice remains strong and undeniable. My promise to you is this, you will be heard loud and clear!
Calling on Industry Professionals
We also invite Public Adjusters, Attorneys, Engineers, and Contractors to join our movement. Your expertise is invaluable in helping homeowners fight back against insurance company tactics. We would love to feature your insights on our website and in videos to educate our audience. Our site includes a section where viewers can ask professionals questions, and we will forward those inquiries to you. If you’re interested in contributing, please reach out to us at Info@HOIexposed.com Your participation could even lead to potential future clients. Also, we are looking for sponsors for our videos and website.
Welcome to HOI Exposed, where your voice matters, your experience is valuable, and your fight for fair treatment is our shared mission.
About Us
Who We Are & What We Do
About The Host - John Dwayne
Who is John Dwayne? John has over 15 years of experience where he was an independent contractor to FEMA. John has performed over 22,000 inspections after a disaster has been declared. He has seen devastation first hand and has witnessed the frustration and and heartache that homeowners have endured, especially when immediately after a disaster has affected your home. He honestly can feel your pain.
Back in 2002 John received licensure through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIF). He understands the claims adjusting process. He understands how the Xactimate program that insurance adjusters use when calculating your claim and how that program can affect your outcome. His background with FEMA coupled with the flood certification he received, John is very well versed in the with many phases of the reconstruction process
The Mission
Our Philosophy
We believe that any voice that wants to be heard should be heard. Many times people try to demonstrate their frustrations through place like Better Business Bureau, Yelp ,and Ripoff Report only to have those reporting platforms remove your reviews, making it hard to have those companies held accountable. At HOI Exposed we are committed to making sure your voices are heard loud and clear. truthful stories and uncensored for the world to see.
Stronger In Numbers
SHARING YOUR HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE EXPERIENCES EDUCATES & EMPOWERS OTHER HOMEOWNERS WITH KNOWLEDGE & KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!
HOI Exposed was created as a platform for homeowners to share their frustrations about how their homeowners insurance companies are treating them after filing a claim. This website provides a space for you to post your experiences and connect with others facing similar challenges. Our goal is to educate and empower homeowners by learning from one another. We've also included helpful guides to assist you in navigating the claims process. Everyone is welcome to participate.
Calling On Professionals
Attorneys
HOI is looking for attorneys that specialize in homeowners insurance. We are aware that laws are governed by different laws on a state by state basis. We are looking to expand our network of attorneys across the country. If you are licensed in multiple states, that's even better.
Your expertise would be invaluable in helping our viewers questions. On our website we have an area where our audience can ask our professionals questions and we forward those questions to the proper entity, assisting our viewers help in navigating through their complex insurance claims. Also, we would love to have you on our podcast from time to time to share your insights and educate homeowners about their rights as a homeowner
Public Adjusters
We are reaching out because we’re actively expanding our network of Public Adjusters. HOI Exposed is a platform dedicated to educating homeowners on insurance claims and holding companies accountable.
At HOI Exposed we understand that insurance regulations vary by state, and having experienced Public Adjusters like you on our network is invaluable to our crusade. We would love to bring you into our fold to share your insights into our Q&A sessions, allowing homeowners seek guidance on navigating the claims process.
Additionally, we can offer opportunities to share your expertise on our podcast, helping to educate many policyholders nationwide.
Would you be interested in joining us? Your knowledge could have a real impact! Shoot us an email so we can schedule a quick call to discuss how you can get involved.
Engineers
Some of you may already know, insurance companies often bring in their own engineers to access damages, and unfortunately, the results are typically not in favor of the homeowner. Our audience needs reputable, independent engineers from across the country to challenge the reports generated by insurance companies and provide fair, unbiased assessments.
Just like the other professionals in our network, we are committed to protecting homeowners' rights. While we recognize that not all insurance companies use engineers to justify denying claims, we are here to advocate for those who receive unfair or misleading reports.
If you are licensed in multiple states, even better! Your expertise can help level the playing field for homeowners fighting for a fair outcome.
Contractors
We are looking for licensed contractors from across the country to share their expertise on repair solutions after an insurance company presents its settlement options. More often than not, insurers present the cheapest possible repairs, leaving homeowners with inadequate repairs.
HOI Exposed values your insights on the solutions insurance companies offer and how they compare to what is actually needed to meet proper building standards. Since codes and regulations vary from state to state, expanding our network of knowledgeable contractors is essential.
Your expertise could be invaluable in helping homeowners receive the full and fair amount they’re owed after filing a claim.
Influencers & Celebrity Status
Influencers & Celebrity Status
If you’re an influencer or have celebrity status and believe in our mission, we would be delighted grateful for an invitation to your podcast. Also, we’d love to have you be a guest on our platform as well to share your insights through our videos and interviews.
If you’re in a position to give us a shout out, it would be a huge shot in the arm for our cause! We would also ask that anyone who supports our mission to like, share, and spread the word on any social media platforms you’re involved with. Together, we can keep this movement alive and make a real difference for homeowners.
Large Claims, Call In The Big Dogs!
Get a Lawyer or Public Adjuster involved from the onset of your claim. It will save you time & money
- If you are entertaining the idea of handling your own large claim, it is imperative that you consider when dealing with the insurance companies claim adjusters these individuals are very skilled at what they do. In fact they do this every day for a living, you don't Their main objective is to keep the cost of your claim to a minimum. I promise you, again these claims adjusters know every trick in the book to achieve their goal. Remember, these claim adjusters do this for a living, and you don't!
- As homeowners I can't state enough as to what a disadvantage we face when we attempt to negotiate our own large claims. The reason for this is simple, the larger the claim, creates more incentive to minimizing your claim. Essentially, what I'm saying the larger the claim is, the more complex the claim becomes, allowing many more avenues for the claims adjuster to not offer full compensation. Just keep in mind the claims adjuster works for the insurance company and they do not work for you. If you decide to take on your own large claim, consider these things, always maintain through documentation, I highly suggest that you communicate through email so you are basically creating a diary when using email. Sometimes, these claims adjusters seem to conveniently forget things that were discussed via phone conversations. If you do communicate via phone conversation it is extremely important to send a follow up email as to what your conversation was about, again maintaining an exact record of your claim.
- Smaller claims tend to be more straight forward since they pose less financial risk to the insurer and involve fewer complexities.
NOTE ***HOI Exposed are not Attorneys nor are we Licensed Public Adjusters.
- NOTE ***At HOI Exposed we accept no responsibility for the advise suggested on this website.
- NOTE ***Please do your own research and understand this website is intended to be helpful and is intended to be used as a guide, not a legal resource.
- IF YOU FEEL ANY RESISTANCE FROM YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY, CALL IN A PROFESSIONAL.
Public Adjuster
A Public Adjuster is a licensed professional who works on behalf of policyholders to assess property damage and negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement.
Advantages of Hiring a Public Adjuster
- Proficient in Policy & Estimates – Public adjusters comprehend insurance policies and how to maximize claims by accurately determining damages to your house.
- Superior Negotiation Skills – They negotiate one on one with the insurance company’s claim adjusters, ensuring you don’t settle for less than what you’re owed.
- Faster Claims Process – A public adjuster streamlines the process, reducing the burden on you, allowing you to not have added stress.
- They Work on Contingency – Meaning they usually work for a percentage of the claim payout. Also, they only get paid if you get paid.
- Less Combative – Unlike attorneys, public adjusters work within the scope claims process rather than engaging in legal battles.
- Prepares Detailed Estimates & Reports – They handle documentation and present a solid case to justify your claim.
- Remove Your Emotions From The Claim - Most likely you are going to be stressed from having your home damaged. This can lead to confusion making it more to make mistakes while handling the claim. hiring a public Adjuster, they don't have the same emotions as you do when handling the claim.
Attorney
An Insurance Attorney is a legal professional who represents & advocates policyholders in disputes with homeowners insurance companies, especially when claims are very complex, prolonged delays, underpaid, or even denied.
Advantages of Hiring an Attorney
- Use Of The Court System – The law firm that you hire has the capability of bringing the insurance company to the court room, whereas the public adjusting firm does not. This allows for you to fight for your rights.
- Much More Leverage – The threat of going to court can it in itself can persuade the insurance company of resolving your claim and pay a fair settle amount.
- Larger Complex Cases – When claims are larger they tend to be more complex. Things like denied claims, fraud accusations, greater discrepancies with in the insurance policy and an array of other situations can become present. therefore, an attorney may be needed.
- Bad Faith Claims – We have all heard about the term Bad Faith. This is a real thing that insurance companies impose on the homeowner. As homeowners we are entitled to what is called punitive damages, delaying or stalling the claim, not telling the insured what coverages are actually covered with in their policy, giving undervalued estimates, and the list goes on and on. An attorney can sue your insurance company on your behalf for damages beyond the claim amount.
.(We have a whole section on our website depicting what bad faith actually is)
- Typically No Upfront Cost (In Most Cases) – Many law firms work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win.
Which One Should You Hire?
- If you are wanting to get as much out of your claim payout without going to court, or involving the court system, a public adjuster is a great option to try. Public Adjusters handle negotiations and paperwork efficiently.
- If your claim has been denied, unfairly delayed, or greatly underpaid, an attorney may be your best option to step up your claim..
- In extreme disputes with your insurance company such as, accusations of fraud, total losses with significant undervaluation, you might need both, a public adjuster to negotiate and an attorney for legal backup. Carefully decide what option is best for you. In our opinion the one thing you shouldn't do is take on the insurance company, without an attorney or public adjuster, especially when it comes to large claims.
What Is Bad Faith?
A Public Adjuster or an Attorney can better interpret what is Bad Faith
The items that HOI Exposed listed are just some things that can be considered acts of bad faith. (Always consult with an attorney if you suspect your insurance company is acting in bad faith) ***HOI Exposed is not a legal entity***.
Understanding Bad Faith practice can be complex trying to understand what the term bad faith actually is and hopefully this section will help you understand its meaning. Additionally, your insurance company is supposed to be standing by you in your crisis of need. Unfortunately, this isn't always the case and some companies choose to engage in this kind of activity, denying policy holders the coverage and compensation they are entitled to receiving,
What Constitutes Bad Faith?
Bad faith in the insurance industry occurs when a company fails to uphold its legal and contractual obligations to policyholders. Here are some common bad faith tactics, and not limited to:.
HOI Exposed hear the following stories constantly.
- Unreasonable Claim Denials – The insurance company might reject legitimate claims without proper investigation or justification.
- Delays in Processing Claims – Companies may intentionally and ridiculously slow down the claims process, is hopes that the policyholders give up or accept a lower payout.
- Undervaluing Claims – Insurers might and often do offer significantly less than the actual cost of repairs or replacements.
- Failure to Conduct a Proper Investigation – Some insurers fail to thoroughly examine and assess proper damages or fail to send an adjuster in a timely manner, amongst a host of other issues.
- Misrepresentation of Policy Terms – Providing misleading statements to the homeowner information about coverage, exclusions, or limits to avoid paying proper amounts regarding the claim.
- Demanding Unnecessary Documentation – Requiring excessive paperwork or repetitive requests to create delays, a stall tactic that many insurance companies employ.
- Punishment Cancellations – Canceling a policy after a claim is filed as a means to avoid paying benefits.
- Refusing to Communicate – Ignoring calls, emails, or written inquiries to frustrate and deter policyholders from pursuing their claims. These tactics are heavily used with in the insurance industry.
- Changing Policy Terms Retroactively – Modifying coverage terms after a claim is made to justify denial.
- Refusing Partial Payments – Denying partial payments even when liability is clear to pressure homeowners into dropping their claims.
- Lowballing Estimates with Biased Contractors – Using company-affiliated contractors to provide unrealistically low repair estimates.
- Shifting Blame to the Homeowner – Accusing homeowners of negligence or fraud without evidence to deny claims.
- Failing to Provide a Reasonable Explanation – Not offering a clear reason for denial or delay, making it difficult for policyholders to appeal decisions.
- Ignoring State Regulations and Deadlines – Failing to adhere to legally required timeframes for claim processing and payouts.
How Homeowners Can Protect Themselves. (The insurance commissioner can help in these situations)
If the homeowners insurance company is acting in bad faith, policyholders have many options to protect themselves and ensure they receive fair treatment and fair compensation for their claims..
- Document Everything – Keep detailed records of all communications, including emails, letters, and notes from phone calls. Save receipts, photos of damages, and any expert assessments. Anytime that you communicate via telephone always follow up with an email detailing what the phone call was about.
- Review Your Policy Thoroughly – Understanding your policy’s terms and coverage limits can prevent insurers from misleading you. Again, this is crucial for your claim, understand that everything revolves around what is with in your policy, and this is why it could be a better option to enlist the help of public adjuster or an attorney from the onset of tour claim,
- Follow Up Persistently – If an insurance company is delaying your claim, send written requests for updates and deadlines.
- Request a Written Explanation – You need to stay on top of your claim. If you see something that does not look right to you, ask those questions, Don't have a run away freight train, stop things before they get out of hand. If a claim is denied or undervalued, demand a written explanation outlining the specific reasons.
- Get an Independent Appraisal – Hiring a public adjuster or independent contractor can provide a more accurate assessment of the damages. Remember the more documentation that you have will enhance your claim.
- File a Complaint – Homeowners can report bad faith practices to their state’s Department of Insurance, which may investigate the insurer’s actions.
- Seek Legal Counsel – If an insurance company refuses to act in good faith, consulting an attorney experienced in insurance disputes can help homeowners take legal action. An attorney can be very helpful in these situations.
- Leverage Public Awareness – Sharing experiences through platforms like HOIexposed.com can help hold insurers accountable and warn other homeowners about bad faith practices.
Final Thoughts
Bad faith insurance practices can leave homeowners vulnerable at a time when they need financial protection the most. By staying informed, documenting interactions, and taking appropriate legal action, homeowners can fight back against unscrupulous insurance tactics and ensure they receive the coverage they rightfully deserve.
Join Us
Help Our Cause
If you believe in our crusade, please donate, and only donate if you can afford to. For those of you that can afford to donate, understand every donation helps maintaining everyday expenses, no matter how large or small. Thanking you in advance
Insurance Company Sends The Engineer-It's The Kiss Of Death!
Typically, if your insurance company sends out an engineer, you have problems, call in an expert
BELOW IS A LINK TO THE NATIONAL BOARD OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING IF YOU NEED TO FILE A COMPLAINT
https://www.nspe.org/about/about-professional-engineering/licensing-boards
What to Expect When Your Insurance Company Sends an Engineer
When your insurance company wants to send out their own engineer, it’s usually not in your best interest. In most cases, they are looking for reasons to minimize or deny your claim, especially the most expensive repairs. A quick Google search for “why is my insurance company sending an engineer to my house?” will show you countless stories of homeowners facing claim denials after these inspections.
The Role of the Insurance Company's Engineer
These engineers are highly skilled professionals with deep knowledge of home construction. However, they don’t work for you, they work for the insurance company. Their job is to protect the insurer’s bottom line, often by identifying reasons to reduce or deny your claim. One of their favorite terms is “pre-existing condition,” which suggests that the damage existed before you filed your claim, giving the insurer a reason not to pay. I can't tell you how many times we hear the term Pre-existing, I think it is in their company hand books to use that term, and I say that jokingly, but at the same time I actually mean it,
Insurance companies don’t send engineers out randomly, trust me they don't because they are expensive, and insurers wouldn’t incur that cost unless they expected to save money in the long run. By hiring an engineer, the company is investing in a report that will likely minimize the damage to your claim, allowing them to justify paying you less money, or nothing at all. Please keep in mind, for these engineers to continue getting work from insurance companies, the reports generated often lean in the insurer’s favor. When insurance companies hire an engineer to show up at your door these insurance companies
How to Protect Yourself
Since insurance companies have the right to send an engineer, you must be prepared. Here’s what you should do:
- Have Your Own Expert Present: If possible, have your contractor or, even better, your own engineer attend the inspection. This can create a level playing field and may discourage the insurance company's engineer from making biased conclusions.
- Document Everything: Take photos, videos, and detailed notes before and after the engineer's visit. If your contractor has provided an estimate, keep it on hand to show the engineer, he may not even look at them,nut none the less have them present.
- Challenge a Biased Report: If the engineer’s report is clearly inaccurate or unfairly slanted, consider filing a complaint with your state’s Professional Board of Engineering. Be precise in your complaint, include photos, contractor estimates, and any reports from your own engineer to strengthen your case. This process can be a lengthy ordeal, but it could prove beneficial in the long run.
- Seek Professional Help: If you’ve already hired an attorney or public adjuster, they likely have engineers they work with who can provide a second opinion.
Final Thoughts
Insurance companies operate with precision and strategy. They assume most homeowners won’t hire their own engineer because of the cost, making it easier for them to justify underpaying or denying claims. If your claim involves major repairs and you can afford it, hiring an independent engineer can be a wise investment.
Before your insurance company even sends their engineer, they likely already know what the report will say, it will support their decision to pay as little as possible. Being proactive, informed, and prepared can help ensure you get the settlement you deserve.
https://www.nspe.org/about/about-professional-engineering/licensing-boards
When To Contact Your Insurance Commissioner?
Don't Hesitate Contacting Your Insurance Commissioner, They Are On Your Side, From Our Experiences They Want To Help!
BELOW YOU WILL FIND A LINK TO ALL INSURANCE COMMISSIONERS IF YOU NEED TO FILE A COMPLAINT
https://ballotpedia.org/List_of_current_insurance_commissioners_in_the_United_States
What does the Insurance Commissioner do exactly?
The role of an Insurance Commissioner is crucial in overseeing the insurance industry within a state or region. While their specific duties may vary by jurisdiction, their primary responsibility is to ensure compliance with regulations and protect consumers. Understanding when and why to contact your Insurance Commissioner can help you resolve insurance related issues effectively.
Duties of an Insurance Commissioner
Regulatory Oversight
Insurance Commissioners regulate insurance companies to ensure they maintain to state laws and industry regulations. Their responsibilities include:
- Licensing insurance companies and agents
- Reviewing policy forms for compliance
- Monitoring the financial resources of the homeowner to ensure they can pay claims.
Consumer Protection
One of the main duties of an Insurance Commissioner is to protect consumers by:
- Investigating complaints against insurance companies and agents
- Ensuring fair treatment of policyholders
- Enforcing laws related to deceptive and unfair insurance practices
Market Conduct Examinations
Insurance Commissioners conduct market conduct examinations to evaluate insurers' business practices, including:
- Sales and marketing tactics
- Underwriting policies
- Claims handling procedures These examinations help to make sure compliance with regulations and fair treatment of policyholders.
Rate Regulation
Insurance Commissioners oversee insurance rate setting to prevent unfair pricing. Their role in these areas may includes:
- Reviewing rate filings submitted by insurance companies
- Approving or rejecting proposed rate changes to ensure fairness to the policy holder.
- Preventing discriminatory and unfair pricing practices
Education and Outreach
To help consumers make informed decisions, Insurance Commissioners provide educational resources and outreach programs. These initiatives may include the following:
- Information on different types of insurance coverage
- Guidance on policyholder rights and responsibilities after a claim has been filed
- Workshops, webinars, and publications on insurance related topics
They Help Dispute Resolution
Insurance Commissioners facilitate the resolution of disputes between consumers and insurance companies through:
- Mediation services
- Arbitration processes
- Sometimes they start formal investigations and enforcement actions when necessary
When to Contact Your Insurance Commissioner
You should consider reaching out to your state's Insurance Commissioner if you experience any of the following issues:
- Claim Denials or Delays: If your insurance company unjustly denies your claim or takes an unreasonable amount of time to process it, the Commissioner can investigate and intervene, many times the Insurance commissioner will do just that
- Unfair Practices: If you suspect your insurance provider is engaging in deceptive or unfair practices, such as sudden policy cancellations, misleading advertising, or unauthorized rate hikes. Please note there many more instances of unfair practices.
- Difficulty in Communication: If your insurance company or agent is unresponsive or fails to provide necessary information about your policy or claim.
- Fraud or Misconduct: If you believe an insurance agent, broker, or company is involved in fraudulent activities, misrepresentation, or unethical conduct.
- Rate Disputes: If you feel your premiums and rates are unfairly high or were increased without proper justification.
- Licensing Issues: If you need to verify whether an insurer or agent is licensed to operate in your state.
- Consumer Assistance: If you need guidance on understanding your rights as a policyholder or require help navigating an insurance issue to keep your claims process from stalling.
How to Contact Your Insurance Commissioner
Typically, you can find the contact information for your state's Insurance Commissioner through your state's Department of Insurance or Division of Insurance website. The ways to reach them include:
- Online: Many insurance departments have online complaint forms or portals where you can submit grievances.
- Phone: Most states have a consumer assistance hotline for insurance-related inquiries.
- Mail: You can send formal complaints or documentation to their official mailing address.
- In-Person: Some Insurance Commissioners have offices where you can schedule meetings or seek direct assistance.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the role of your Insurance Commissioner and knowing when to seek their help can make a significant difference when dealing with insurance related issues. They serve as an important resource in helping to protect consumers, ensuring fair treatment, and enforcing industry regulations. If you ever encounter problems with your insurance provider, do not hesitate to reach out for assistance, they are there to help'
BELOW YOU WILL FIND A LINK TO ALL INSURANCE COMMISSIONERS IF YOU NEED TO FILE A COMPLAINT
https://ballotpedia.org/List_of_current_insurance_commissioners_in_the_United_States
Post Your Story- Request An Interview - Q&A From Our Experts
Post your story or request an interview on our podcast, have your story heard! - Ask questions below
At HOI Exposed, we are eager to hear and share your experience with your homeowners insurance company. Please provide a detailed and precise account, including any supporting documentation and photos you may have. We look forward to featuring your story on our website or inviting you to join us on our podcast! Free of charge!
We have Attorneys, Public Adjusters, Engineers and Contractors standing by to answer any questions you may have.
Submit your stories and questions at Info@HOIexposed.com we will review your stories and questions and get back to you as soon as we can, thank you for participating!
*** STORIES POSTED AT BOTTOM OF PAGE***
