Detailed Answer

Insurance companies in Colorado must handle claims fairly and in good faith. If your insurer refuses to update you or threatens to close your claim, follow these steps to protect your rights and improve your chance of a fair resolution.

1) Immediately document and preserve communications

Write down dates, times, names, and what was said for every phone call, email, text, or written notice. Save policy documents, claim numbers, photos, estimates, inspection reports, and any letters the company sends. Good documentation is the foundation of a dispute or complaint.

2) Make a clear written request for status

Send a short, professional written letter or email to your adjuster and the insurer’s claim office. Include:

• Your name, policy number, claim number, and loss date.
• A request for a written explanation of the claim status and specific reasons if they plan to close the claim.
• A reasonable deadline for response (commonly 10–14 days).

Send important letters by certified mail or with delivery/read receipts for proof of delivery.

3) Ask for the insurer’s reasons in writing

If the insurer says it will close the claim, insist on a written denial or closure explanation that cites the policy provision or factual basis. Without a written denial you have less to contest. If the company needs more information, ask exactly what documents or actions they require and by when.

4) Use Colorado’s regulator and complaint process

If you do not get a timely written response or receive what looks like an unreasonable delay or threat to close, file a consumer complaint with the Colorado Division of Insurance. The Division can review your complaint and sometimes obtain additional information from the insurer. File online or get guidance here: doi.colorado.gov – File a consumer complaint. Also see the Division of Insurance general consumer information: dora.colorado.gov/insurance.

5) Consider whether the insurer’s conduct could be “unfair” or “bad faith”

Colorado law prohibits unfair or deceptive insurance practices. If an insurer unreasonably delays, misrepresents facts or policy provisions, or denies coverage without proper basis, you may have a statutory or contract claim. The Colorado Revised Statutes set the standards for insurance regulation; search Title 10 (Insurance) for relevant provisions here: leg.colorado.gov – Colorado Statutes. If you suspect wrongful conduct, consult an attorney about potential remedies, including a lawsuit for breach of contract or insurance bad faith.

6) When to get a lawyer

Talk to a lawyer if:

• You receive a written denial or closure you disagree with.
• The insurer ignores requests for months or keeps promising action with no result.
• The claim involves substantial money or complicated liability questions.

An attorney can send a formal demand letter, evaluate potential bad-faith claims, help gather evidence, and represent you in negotiations or court.

7) Alternative resolution options

Depending on your policy you may have appraisal, mediation, or arbitration options. Check your policy language and ask the insurer in writing whether internal appeal or appraisal processes apply. If you pursue small claims court or civil litigation, keep in mind deadlines (statute of limitations) that apply to contract and tort claims. Because deadlines vary by claim type, ask a Colorado attorney to confirm the time limits that apply to your case.

Helpful Hints

• Always get important communications in writing. Verbal promises are hard to prove.
• Keep a single organized file (paper or digital) with a claim timeline and documents.
• Ask for a written reason for closure or denial and cite your policy section when you respond.
• If the insurer requests documents, provide what’s reasonably required, but keep copies of everything you submit.
• Use certified mail or read-receipts for critical letters; note the delivery date and recipient.
• File a complaint with the Colorado Division of Insurance early if you see unreasonable delay: File a consumer complaint.
• If the claim is time-sensitive or high-value, consult a Colorado insurance attorney promptly.
• When in doubt, request a written explanation of what the insurer needs to keep the claim open — then meet that request if it is reasonable.