Short answer: Missouri homeowners mostly file hail, wind and tornado claims, and standard policies exclude flood and earthquake. If you can't get coverage in the standard market, the Missouri FAIR Plan (the Missouri Property Insurance Placement Facility) is the last resort, applied for through a Missouri-licensed agent; homes in severe disrepair or with unsafe heating or significant unrepaired damage won't qualify. Insurers must give 30 days' notice of non-renewal and decide claims within 15 working days after all forms are submitted.
This guide is general information for Missouri homeowners. It isn't legal advice. Your policy wording controls.
Step 1: Storm claims
Report hail and wind damage promptly and get a roofer's estimate. If the adjuster's estimate is lower, send the roofer's estimate and ask the insurer to explain the difference. Ask whether your policy has a separate wind and hail deductible.
Step 2: Earthquake and flood
Southeast Missouri sits in the New Madrid seismic zone, and earthquake needs an endorsement or separate policy. Flood needs its own policy; see FloodSmart.
Step 3: The Missouri FAIR Plan
The Missouri FAIR Plan says properties may be ineligible or surcharged if they're in a severe state of disrepair, have significant unrepaired damage from prior losses, have an unsatisfactory loss history or have unsafe heating such as seriously deteriorated equipment, chimneys or vents. Fix those issues before applying. Apply through a Missouri-licensed agent. See FAIR Plan vs. surplus lines home insurance.
Step 4: Non-renewal notice
Under RSMo §375.004, insurers must give at least 30 days' notice, mailed or delivered to the address on your policy. Details: Missouri homeowners non-renewal rules.
Step 5: Claim deadlines
Under 20 CSR 100-1.030, insurers must acknowledge a claim within 10 working days and accept or deny within 15 working days after all forms are submitted, with updates every 45 days if they need more time. More: Missouri insurance claim deadlines.
See our tables: non-renewal notice rules by state, insurance claim deadlines by state and home insurance claim and lawsuit deadlines by state.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Missouri.
Frequently asked questions
What makes a home ineligible for the Missouri FAIR Plan?
Severe disrepair, significant unrepaired damage from prior losses, an unsatisfactory loss history or unsafe heating, among other conditions, according to the Missouri FAIR Plan.
How much notice before a Missouri homeowners non-renewal?
At least 30 days, under RSMo §375.004.
How fast must a Missouri insurer decide a claim?
Within 15 working days after all forms are submitted, with updates every 45 days if more time is needed.
Does Missouri homeowners insurance cover earthquakes?
No. Earthquake needs an endorsement or a separate policy.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.