When “Too Late” Isn’t Fair: Allstate’s Holdback Refusals and Ohio’s 60-Day Notice Rule
Allstate and other insurers are increasingly denying replacement cost benefits by citing a 180-day deadline found in their “How We Pay for a Loss” and “Building Structure Reimbursement” provisions. Policyholders who complete repairs and request payment afterward are sometimes told their claim is “untimely” — even when no prior warning was given. Under Ohio Administrative Code 3901-1-54(G)(5), insurers must provide written notice at least 60 days before any contractual limitation expires if the claimant is not represented by counsel. Failure to do so can invalidate the carrier’s reliance on the 180-day rule. This article explains the legal duty to notify, outlines defenses against untimely denial, and offers best practices for public adjusters and policyholders to protect recovery rights when carriers fail to communicate looming deadlines.
