Worry Free Homecare Services

Handling the Insurance Claim for Property Damage

Hey Neighbors! Hopefully we do not experience severe weather conditions but here are a few helpful hints should the situation arise.

1. Perform a thorough physical inspection of your property and take good pictures, especially the “before” and “after” of those areas, such as the roof, that require immediate attention. Make sure you inspect for all exterior damage including, but not limited to, aesthetic damage to paint, gutters, window screens, lighting, heat pump coils, hot tub covers, mailbox, etc. Contact your insurance company to file a claim. Make them aware of both exterior and interior damage as well as the immediate actions you are planning.

2. Line up those individuals necessary to repair the damage. Select good, honest craftsmen; don’t worry that they might “take advantage” of your insurance company – the insurance company is big enough to take care of themselves.

3. The adjuster will typically contact you within 2 – 5 days. They can be an intimidating individual. They are the representative for a large insurance company. The company’s objective is to collect money — not to funnel it out. That is why the adjuster’s goal is to negotiate as low a settlement as legally possible.

4. It is important for you to meet with the adjuster and if possible, the key repair contractors at the property to see the damage first hand. You need to have your facts and documents in good order and very detailed. The adjuster is experienced at handling these negotiations daily, while if you are lucky, you will only have to do this a few times. The adjuster should listen to reason. They will be able to tell you have done your homework and are serious about getting a fair settlement.

5. The adjuster will do a physical inspection and take pictures. An adjustment sheet will be prepared and an estimate for the repairs will be made including allowance for depreciation. If any part of the claim is questionable, the adjuster will tend to favor the insurance company. You should attempt to resolve any discrepancies between you, the adjuster and possibly the craftsmen after the inspection. Remember, it is quicker and easier for the adjuster to reject a claim in writing than in a face-to-face situation.

6. If there remain any discrepancies, they should be worked out prior to starting work with the exception of critical items such as the roof. The best way to negotiate is to be firm but aggressive. Be well prepared with plenty of documentation supporting your claim to a certain amount of money. Be persuasive in your discussions, stand your ground and you should be able to come away with a fair settlement.

7. If at this time you feel that the adjuster is still not negotiating a reasonable settlement, the next step is to tell the adjuster you have no other choice but to complain to the State Department of Insurance and/or contact your attorney. The mere mention of a complaint may catch their attention - after all, they do not want copies of the complaints being placed in their personnel file. In addition, the adjuster’s superior will be made aware there is a claimant (you) who intends to do whatever is necessary to obtain some fair settlement dollars. In fact, your complaint could evolve into a costly effort for the company with additional work and extra personnel.

Worry Free Homecare Services offers Severe Storm Protection as one of its many home services.