My name is Erik, and I am reaching out to seek your legal expertise regarding a matter that has recently affected me and my property in San Jose, California. More specifically, my residence, located near Almaden Lake Park, a less prominent but significant area in our city, has suffered considerable damage due to a recent storm that hit the region. Following the event, I promptly filed a claim with my insurance company, expecting a straightforward process. However, the response and subsequent handling of my claim have been anything but. The insurance company has been notably reluctant to acknowledge the full extent of the damage, offering a compensation amount that falls significantly short of the actual repair costs required to restore my property to its pre-damage condition. Given the situation, I believe I need legal assistance to navigate this dispute and to ensure that my rights as a policyholder are fully protected. I am particularly concerned about the insurance company's assessment process, their interpretation of the policy terms concerning the damage, and the possibility of an unfair settlement. Could you please advise me on the potential legal actions I could take to contest the insurance company's current position? Moreover, what would be the process, expected timeline, and potential costs associated with pursuing this matter legally?