Understanding the Basics After Receiving a Property Insurance Check
If you’ve recently filed a homeowners insurance claim and received a check for damages, you might have been surprised to see the name of your mortgage company included alongside yours. This is a common practice, but it often raises questions for homeowners unfamiliar with the claims process. So, why is the mortgage company listed on your insurance check, and what does it mean for you?
The Relationship Between Mortgage Lenders and Homeowners Insurance
When you finance a home through a mortgage, the lender becomes a financial stakeholder in your property. Until the mortgage is paid in full, the bank or mortgage servicer technically owns a portion of your home, known as a security interest.
Because of this financial interest, lenders require homeowners to carry insurance that protects the home’s structure (commonly referred to as hazard insurance or dwelling coverage). The policy ensures that, if the property is damaged or destroyed, funds will be available to restore or repair it and protect the lender’s investment.
Why the Mortgage Company Is a Named Payee on Insurance Checks
Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies include a mortgage clause, which states that any claim payment made for damage to the property must include the name of the mortgage lender. This clause ensures that the lender:
- Is aware of any significant damage to the property
- Can verify that repairs are made to restore the property’s value
- Has control over how insurance proceeds are disbursed
In short, the mortgage company’s name is included to protect its financial interest in the home. Without their inclusion, a homeowner could technically cash the check and fail to repair the property, leaving the lender with a diminished or damaged asset.
How to Endorse and Process a Check with the Mortgage Company
If your check includes your mortgage company, you will likely need to follow these steps to access the funds:
1. Contact the Mortgage Company Immediately
Contact your lender’s loss draft department, which handles insurance claims. They will provide specific instructions and required documentation.
2. Endorse the Check Properly
You must sign the check and then forward it to the lender for co-endorsement. Some mortgage companies require the check mailed or dropped off at a branch.
3. Submit Required Paperwork
Most lenders will ask for:
- A copy of the insurance adjuster’s report
- A repair estimate or a contractor’s proposal
- A signed contractor agreement
- Photos of the damage
- A W-9 form from your contractor
4. Request a Disbursement Plan
Depending on the amount, the lender may hold the funds in escrow and release them in portions:
- First disbursement: Typically, 33–50% up front to begin work
- Second disbursement: After partial inspection of completed repairs
- Final disbursement: Once all work is complete and verified
Why It Still Applies When You Use a Lawyer
Even when a lawyer is involved in your insurance claim process, including the mortgage company’s name on the check remains necessary. Here’s why:
- Legal and Contractual Obligations: The mortgage company’s rights and obligations are outlined in the contract, which remains unchanged regardless of legal representation. The insurance company must comply with these terms when issuing the settlement check.
- Lender’s Rights: Using a lawyer will expedite and maximize your property insurance claim, but it does not negate the lender’s right to be involved in the disbursement of funds. The lawyer’s role is to advocate for you and ensure you receive a fair settlement, but they cannot alter the fundamental terms of your mortgage agreement.
Conclusion: Understanding Why the Mortgage Company Is on Your Insurance Check
The inclusion of a mortgage company on an insurance claim check may feel frustrating, but it’s part of the legal framework designed to protect both the homeowner and the lender. By understanding the process and communicating effectively, you can minimize delays and get your home restored quickly and properly.
If you’re unsure about how to proceed or encounter any difficulties, consider contacting our Florida insurance claim lawyers, who can provide expert guidance and help you get the repairs done as quickly as possible. Call us at 1-800-451-6786 or fill out our online contact form.