Wisconsin: How to File a Property Insurance Complaint and Protect Your Rights

Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI)

Purpose: Investigates complaints related to insurance companies and claim disputes, ensuring they comply with state and federal regulations.

Recognizing Unfair Insurance Practices

Not sure if you should file a complaint? Here are common signs your insurer may not be acting in good faith:

• Claim Denied: Your claim was rejected with no clear explanation.
• Delays: Your payout is taking too long, impacting your ability to repair your home.
• Underpayment: The payout amount is significantly less than your documented losses.
• Poor Communication: Your insurer isn’t responding or is giving unclear answers.
• Unfair Cancellations: Your policy was canceled or not renewed without good reason.
• Pressure to Settle: You’re being pushed to accept a low offer quickly.

Document Everything

Before filing a complaint, gather these:

• Emails, call logs, and letters from your insurer
• Photos and videos of the property damage
• Receipts or estimates for repairs
• A timeline of your claim process
• Witness names, if any

How to File an Insurance Complaint in Wisconsin

You can submit a complaint to the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance online or by mail. Here’s how:

Hotline

Call: (608) 266-0103 (Madison) or (800) 236-8517 (Statewide)
M-F, 7:45 AM–4:30 PM

Online Submission

Submit via the official form:
https://ociaccess.oci.wi.gov/complaints/public/receiveComplaint;jsessionid=7F7FE69837165E3FBF534709451DAFFA.webpub2-legacy-blue?execution=e1s1

Mail-In Form

Download and print the form: https://oci.wi.gov/Documents/OCIForms/51-005.PDF

• Mail-In PDF
• Mail to:
  Office of the Commissioner of Insurance
  P.O. Box 7873
  Madison, WI 53707-7873

Fax

Send your complaint by fax to: (608) 264-8115

Email

You can also send your complaint to: ocicomplaints@wisconsin.gov

Website

Visit: https://oci.wi.gov/Pages/Consumers/Filing-a-Complaint.aspx

What Happens After You File?

The Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance will:

• Review your documentation
• Investigate the insurer’s handling of your claim
• Contact your insurer and request a formal response
• Notify you of the outcome and any next steps

While the department cannot force payment, it can hold insurers accountable for unfair practices.

Types of Complaints They Handle:

• Denied, delayed, or underpaid claims
• Misleading policy information
• Unlawful policy cancellations
• Poor customer service or negligence
• Violations of state insurance regulations

What to Include in Your Complaint

Be prepared with:

• Your full name, contact info, and policy number
• Your insurer’s name and the adjuster’s contact
• A clear explanation of the issue
• Copies of supporting documents (photos, estimates, emails)

Still Having Trouble?

You may also wish to consult an attorney if:

• Your claim was wrongfully denied
• You’ve suffered significant financial harm
• The insurer is stalling with no end in sight

Legal help can support your claim while the department investigates.