FAQ
Welcome to the ALE Housing FAQ section. Here you can find answers to common questions about our insurance housing services. Whether you're a policyholder, adjuster, or corporate client, we've got you covered. Click here to learn more and find the information you need to make informed decisions about your short-term rental housing needs.
ALE is a standard feature of most homeowners and renters insurance policies. It covers extra costs you incur when a covered loss (like fire or storm damage) makes your home uninhabitable, helping you maintain your normal standard of living in temporary housing.
Source: National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)
An insurance housing provider helps people find temporary housing when their primary residence is uninhabitable due to a covered event like a fire, flood, or other disaster. These providers work with insurance companies to arrange and coordinate temporary living arrangements for policyholders. They offer a range of options, including furnished apartments, hotels, and even single-family homes, to meet the specific needs of each individual.
Start by filing a claim as soon as possible. Your insurance adjuster will review your policy for ALE coverage, assess damages, and determine if your home is uninhabitable. Provide documentation (photos, adjuster’s report) and communicate temporary housing needs, including any special requirements (like pets). Approval times vary but can take as little as 24–72 hours with complete documentation.
Source: Insurance Information Institute: Additional Living Expenses
Hotels are often crowded, uncomfortable, and lack amenities needed for daily life. ALE Housing Solutions provides move-in-ready homes or apartments with full kitchens, laundry, privacy, and space for families, making post-disaster recovery more comfortable and less stressful.
Source: FEMA: Disaster-Related Temporary Housing Assistance | How to File a Homeowners Insurance Claim After a Storm
A residence is considered uninhabitable if living there poses a health, safety, or security risk, or if the dwelling lacks essential services (water, electricity, heat/cooling, functioning kitchen or bathroom). Minor damage usually does not qualify; extensive structural, smoke, or water damage generally does.
Source: ALE Housing Solutions Industry Standards | Know Your Rights as a California Tenant Your Right to a Safe and Well-Maintained Home
For qualifying claims, there are no up-front costs to policyholders. ALE Housing Solutions bills your insurance provider directly, in accordance with policy limits. Out-of-pocket costs may occur only if you exceed your policy limits, or request upgrades not covered by your policy.
Source: Insurance Information Institute: Homeowners Policies
You’ll typically need:
A copy of your insurance policy (showing ALE coverage)
Contact info for your insurance adjuster
Proof that your home is uninhabitable (adjuster report, photos, or a letter)
Yes, within reason. ALE Housing Solutions aims to place you close to your home, work, or children’s school, whenever possible and within your policy’s daily or monthly allowance. Availability can depend on your local rental market and insurance approvals.
Source: Consumer Reports
You can stay as long as your home is uninhabitable and your policy’s ALE/loss of use benefits provide coverage, usually up to 12 months, or as your policy specifies.
Source: Insurance Information Institute: Homeowners Insurance Coverage Periods
Your insurance adjuster typically determines habitability during their inspection. They assess if the damage makes it unsafe or unreasonable to remain in the home. Local building codes and public health guidelines can inform this decision, but insurance contracts ultimately define “uninhabitable” for claim purposes.
Insurers must provide “comparable accommodations” to your previous living situation, within your ALE coverage limits. Factors include home size, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, location (school/work), and any unique needs (pets, disabilities). The goal is to match your normal standard of living, not provide a luxury upgrade.
Transparency: Your insurer must clearly explain available coverage, limits, and the claims process.
Timely Payment: You are entitled to timely approval and reimbursement or direct payments for eligible ALE costs.
Choice: You may select housing options within your coverage limit, not just what the insurer recommends.
Appeal: If coverage or habitability is disputed, you have the right to appeal/complain—sometimes with your state’s insurance regulator.
ALE covers extra costs above your normal living expenses, such as:
Temporary rent
Increased food costs (e.g., dining out if you lack a kitchen)
Laundry, storage, pet boarding, temporary utilities, and relocation costs
Keep receipts for all related expenses.
Yes. Your policy will specify an ALE limit—commonly a percentage of your dwelling coverage (like 20–30%). Payment continues until you return home, find permanent housing, or reach your limit or time cap (often 12–24 months).
Source: Insurance Information Institute: Homeowners Coverage Limits
If you feel the home is unsafe or truly unlivable, you can:
Request a supervisor review
Provide third-party opinions (contractor, health inspector)
File a formal complaint with your state’s insurance department
Document all unsafe/unhealthy conditions and communicate them in writing.
Source: NAIC: Resolving Claim Disputes
If your ALE claim is delayed or denied, here’s what you can do: 1. Ask your insurer for a written explanation. 2. Review your policy and state laws, as some states require quick decisions. 3. Consider contacting a public adjuster for help. 4. File a consumer complaint with your state insurance commissioner if needed. For more details, visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Insurance Complaints.
Contact your insurance adjuster, consult your state’s Department of Insurance, or call trusted housing solution partners like ALE Housing Solutions for guidance through the ALE approval process.
All answers reference recognized authorities, like: