Within sixty (60) days of the time an insurer receives a first-party claim, and provided the claim has not been resolved, the insurer shall mail to the insured a mediation notice of the right to mediate disputed claims. Mediation notification shall be in writing and shall be legible, conspicuous, and printed in at least 12-point type. The notice shall contain the following statement: "The Commissioner of Insurance for the State of Alabama, has adopted regulations to facilitate the fair and timely handling of residential property insurance claims arising out of the hurricanes, tropical storms, tornados, and other disasters. The regulations give you the opportunity to attend a mediation conference with your insurer in order to settle any dispute you may have with your insurer about your hurricane or tropical storm claim. You can start the mediation process 21 days after the date of this mediation notice by calling the Alabama Department of Insurance at the Consumer Services Division, 334-241-4143; by faxing a request to the Alabama Department of Insurance at 334-240-4409; or by mail directed to: Consumer Services Division, 201 Monroe Street, Suite 1700, Montgomery, Alabama 36130-3351. An independent mediator selected by the Alabama Department of Insurance and approved by you and the insurance company, who has no connection with the insurance company, will be in charge of the mediation conference."
Author: Commissioner of Insurance
Ala. Admin. Code r. 482-1-135-.04
Statutory Authority:Code of Ala. 1975, § 27-2-17.