Couple alleges insurance company refuses to reimburse for fire damage

A St. Clair County couple alleges their insurance company refuses to reimburse them for damages caused to their home following a fire.

Kenneth and Sherry Dailey filed a lawsuit Oct. 31 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Country Mutual Insurance Company.

The Daileys had an insurance policy through Country Mutual that was supposed to cover their home for any damages caused to it, the suit states. On July 4, 2013, a fire erupted at the house, causing severe damages to it, according to the complaint.

"The fire caused such extensive damage that no substantial remnant remained," the suit states. "No ordinary, reasonable, and prudent uninsured person would use the remaining structure for rebuilding or restoration."

The policy limit under the Daileys' Country insurance policy was $77,011.27, the complaint says. The Daileys have since filed a claim seeking repayment of the policy, according to the complaint.

However, Country has failed to repay the couple, except for $18,000 for temporary living expenses, the suit states.

In its complaint, the Daileys seek $77,011.27, less a $1,000 deductible, plus $68,066 for damages of contents within their home, pre-judgment interest and costs.

Attorney Canice Timothy Rice Jr. of St. Louis will represent the plaintiffs.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 14-L-721.