Short answer: Montana homeowners deal with hail and wildfire. After a hailstorm, the Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance says to document damage before cleanup, get multiple written bids and verify that contractors are registered, insured and bonded. With wildfire and rising rebuilding costs, check that your dwelling limit keeps up. Insurers must give at least 45 days' written notice before non-renewing and must accept or deny a claim within 30 days after proof of loss.
This guide is general information for Montana homeowners. It isn't legal advice. Your policy wording controls.
Step 1: After hail, protect yourself from bad contractors
The Commissioner's hail guide says to:
- Photograph and document damage before you clean up or repair, and prevent further damage, such as covering broken windows.
- Not feel rushed to sign. Get multiple written bids and check references.
- Verify the contractor is registered to do business in Montana and has workers' compensation, liability insurance and a bond.
- Get a written contract, never pay in full before the work is done, and never pay cash.
Step 2: Keep your dwelling limit current
The Commissioner has warned that wildfire and rising property values and replacement costs are pushing premiums up. Ask your agent to recalculate your rebuilding cost each year, and ask about mitigation credits. If you're non-renewed, check surplus lines; see FAIR Plan vs. surplus lines home insurance.
Step 3: Flood
Flood isn't covered by homeowners insurance; see FloodSmart.
Step 4: Non-renewal notice
Under MCA §33-23-401, insurers must give written notice at least 45 days before cancelling or non-renewing a policy on a private residence. Details: Montana homeowners non-renewal rules.
Step 5: Claims
Under MCA §33-18-232, insurers must accept or deny a claim within 30 days after proof of loss and pay within the same window. More: Montana 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 Montana.
Frequently asked questions
What should I check before hiring a Montana roofer after hail?
That the contractor is registered to do business in Montana and has workers' compensation, liability insurance and a bond. Get written bids and never pay cash, according to the Commissioner.
How much notice before a Montana homeowners non-renewal?
At least 45 days' written notice under MCA §33-23-401.
How fast must a Montana insurer decide a claim?
Within 30 days after proof of loss, under MCA §33-18-232.
Does Montana homeowners insurance cover flood?
No. Buy a separate flood 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.