Insurance Claims Help & ServicesFor Insurance Claim Disputes, Independent Appraiser, Insurance Appraisal Process, and Appraisal Umpire Services!

To the highest degree all people purchase an insurance policy  – whether it is homeowners insurance or another – without reflecting much about what they are actually purchasing. The most common thing is the premium or the cost one pays. Premium is the biggest cause of the insurance coverage purchase that seems to concern most people. When it comes to other basics of the insurance product people buy, the concerns are usually absent. Many purchasers seem to think that the policy we shop for is the same, no matter which company you buy it from. This attitude is based from a fundamental misunderstanding of what an insurance product is – and how the insurance underground is functioning. It can also cause insurance disputes.

Of course it is of the utmost importance not to pay more for any insurance products than is necessary. However, on occasion we are unaware of the coverage we have with our property until we file a claim. That is when you discover that there was not an efficient amount of coverage available for the loss. Unfortunately, many people find this out after it’s too late. Such large loss claims like fire or flooding can lead to very costly repairs in the tens of thousands and even hundreds of thousands of dollars. Owners of motorcycles, boats or motor-homes can be surprised to learn that neither their homeowners policy nor their auto insurance policy covers them for any damage affiliated with such property.

Non-traditional (or inland marine as some are called) policies is a custom sector of insurance. Such type of insurance deals with property and items that would not traditionally fall under the typical property or automobile insurance policies. Such items include boats, snowmobiles, ATV’s and non commercial watercraft. You will find that your current insurance company does not issue coverage for these types of goods, in this case you should inquire about a specialty insurance company.

Accidents happen, be it in your home, car or even riding our ATV. By making sure you have adequate coverage we can prevent a small accident from causing a financial nightmare. Imagine having a large fire or tornado claim that cost $250,000… and only being covered for $150,000. We encounter such tragic events everyday when we assist families with their insurance disputes. Educating yourself about your policy can protect you from costly situations at a later date.

Bookmark It

Independent insurance appraisers provide an unbiased evaluation of claim damage based upon what the policy provides. Individuals and businesses purchase insurance policies to protect against monetary losses. In the event of a loss, policyholders submit claims, or requests for payment, seeking compensation for their loss. When a disagreement on the amount the repairs will cost arises; each party can hire an independent appraiser via he insurance appraisal clause.

Their main role is to investigate claims, negotiate settlements, and reach an agreement on the amount of loss. Some even investigate claims by interviewing the claimant and witnesses, consulting police and hospital records, and inspecting property damage to determine how much the company should pay for the loss. They may consult with other professionals, such as accountants, architects, construction workers, engineers, lawyers, and physicians, who can offer a more expert evaluation of a claim. The information gathered—including photographs and statements, either written, or recorded audio or video—is set down in a report that is then used to evaluate the claim.

When is the right time to hire an independent appraiser?

An independent appraiser is not needed until you actually have a dispute. Most of the time an independent appraiser is needed hen serious damages occur from fire, floods, earthquake,tornados, lightning strikes and hail.  If you want an independent opinion or are having problems collecting money on your loss, you can consult with an Independent Insurance Appraiser to determine if you should consider the appraisal process.

If you find your self in this unfortunate situation, Insurance Claims Group, Inc. provides a Free Insurance Claim Review.

Bookmark It

Not only are people confused about lightning strike damage claims, many do not even realize that their insurance policy covers lightning strike damages. Lightning can damage the electrical system, cause damages to roofing and framing, can penetrate and damage brick chimneys, and can enter a building and damage finishes like carpet, tile, walls, cabinets, and more. Lightning can also tople trees that fall on homes and buildings, and worse, cause serious fires. It’s bad enought to have had  damage caused by lightning, without having to fight with your insurance company about the damages.

Lightning usually strikes the highest elevation above the ground, but can “run” or jump to adjacent objects, such as houses, power lines, or even people or animals. Most lightning strikes enter homes and buildings through the electrical system. Such strikes can cause a multitude of issues to your home or building… that are sight unseen. Insurance compaies are infamouse for leaving unseen damages out of their estimates. If they can’t see it, they’re covinced it must not be damaged. Lightning can damage underground water lines, underground electical systems, sprinkler systems, and even foundations. Sometimes convincing the insurance company that there was no problems with these items prior to the lightning storm is a daunting task.

When it comes to lightning strike claims many people find themselves disagreeing with the estimate and analysis from their insurance company adjuster. Most of the time the insurance company’s estimate is much lower than estimates provided by local contractors. What can a policyholder do when this happens? How do you fight back? How do you find help in such a situation?

Almost all policyholders are unaware of a very powerful clause in their policy that allows then to invoke The Insurance Appraisal Process. For many insurance claim disputes the only available option to resolve such disagreements is a clause buried in the “Conditions” and/or “What to do after a loss,” sections of the insurace policy. It’s called The Appraisal Clause – also know as The Appraisal Provision.

More information is available about lightning strike claims by contacting Insurance Claims Group, Inc.  They will provide a FREE Consultation and Free Claim File Review. They can analyze your claim, your policy, the insurance company estimates, and your contractors bids to let you know where you stand. Is their more money available in your policy? Has the adjuster or contractor left out items that are covered? Be in the “Know,” and don’t be pushed around.  You didin’t let the lightning stop you… why let the insurance company?

Bookmark It

Natural disasters can change the face of the world. Believe it or not, the strongest earthquake ever recorded in the United States was located in Missouri, not California. This earthquake was so powerful that it actually changed the Mississippi River’s course. We do not have the power to stop them from happening, but we can do a much better job preparing ourselves from the consequences and protect ourselves from an insurance claims dispute.

Every state that borders the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean, which is twenty states including Hawaii face hurricane threats on a yearly basis. The population of the United States continues to grow exponentially, and so does the threat of facing a catastrophe. Tornado, Hurricanes, Floods, and Earthquakes happen all over the United States.

Home values have decreased in some areas that have a lot of natural disasters. Most homeowners have a large amount of their money tied up in their homes. This puts them at huge risk with their finances. Recent natural disasters, such as Hurricanes Rita and Katrina showed us that we are not prepared for natural disasters.

There are many great ideas to help Americans prepare for these natural disasters, and national coalitions like protectingamerica.org advocate these. These organizations are made up of first responders as well as emergency management officials.

One basic solution to this is the emergency of privately funded, but sponsored by government funds for catastrophe. This money would accumulate before a disaster occurred, and is a combination of insurance premiums and government money. This way, the states can fund their own restoration from natural disasters. If property owners can’t be covered by one state, then the federal government would step in. Money would be designated for this one purpose, and could grow every year it wasn’t used.

Another solution includes training and strengthening first responders, better land use policies, and better building codes. A better solution is not going to happen overnight, so here is what you can do in the meantime to prepare yourself:

1. Familiarize yourself with your town’s disaster plans and come up with a family disaster plan.
2. Create an emergency supply kit that has plenty of nonperishable food, can opener, paper plates and utensils, lots of bottled water, first-aid kids, flashlight and radio, and plenty of batteries
3. Put everything important in water and fire proof containers; wills, insurance policies, passports, birth certificates, financial information, phone numbers, etc.
4. Create a video inventory of your personal property and keep as many receipts as possible.

As stated earlier, “We do not have the power to stop Natural Disaters from happening, but we can do a much better job preparing ourselves from the consequences and protect ourselves from an insurance claims dispute.

Bookmark It

An increasing number of insurance policyholders have found themselves involved deeply in an insurance dispute about claim damage. Insurance disputes can be financially devastating. A common feeling of most policyholders is that insurance companies are there to actually help them in times of need. Sometimes, that is completely true, however with larger claims, it can feel like you are being taken advantage of.

A house fire, tornado, tree through the roof, or busted pipe can cause large amounts of damage to a home and it’s belongings. People often feel reassured because they have homeowners insurance coverage or business owners insurance. That relief could be premature. Yes, your damages are covered by your insurance policy, but how much will your company pay versus what you have to pay out of pocket?

The policyholder often thinks that if they have been with a company for a number of years and never submitted claim, they will get a fair settlement. It should be that easy. You pay timely premiums, you find a good contractor and submit your claim properly, and it should be paid. However, larger claims dig deeper into the insurance company’s pockets. With more to pay out, any policyholders find out that they are NOT “in good hands,” the insurance company is NOT always “on your side,” and “like a good neighbor… there NOT always there.”

Everyone wants to believe that they will be taken care of in a time of need. That is not always true with more costly claims. These large claims become a huge, costly battle over what should and shouldn’t be replaced or repaired. Many insurance companies do wish to take care of their clients and give them a fair claim settlement for the needed repairs. Unfortunately, there are just as many companies who will do everything in their power to protect themselves financially… instead of protecting and taking care of their clients.

Not many policyholders are aware that there is a clause within their policy that protects them from insurance company greed. It’s called the insurance Appraisal Clause. The clause has a set process to settle insurance disputes that involve the “amount of loss.” If the two parties have two separate estimates and different opinions on how much money it will take to complete repairs or replacement, appraisal is the next step.

Appraisal settles disputes about damage to your home or property. If you suffer a natural disaster that destroys your home, the insurance company will send an adjuster. Disputes begin for many reasons. However, as an example, let’s say the adjuster estimates a fire damage claim at $300,000. Your contractor gives an estimate to repair the damage for $450,000. Obviously there is a dispute on the “amount of loss.” This results in a dispute between the two parties for both repairs and damages. An agreement can not be reached, as neither party is willing to budge. At that time, either party can demand appraisal in writing. Each party must appoint an Independent Appraiser to settle the insurance dispute.

For a more detailed breakdown of the Insurance Appraisal Process policyholders can educate themselves and obtain insurance dispute assistance from Insurance Claims Group.

Bookmark It

Many policyholders will rely on the adjuster sent by their insurance company to arrive for a meeting, inspect the claim damages, and provide an estimate for what they believe is a fair settlement of the claim. This is a mistake of enormous proportion that should almost NEVER HAPPEN! Insurance advice rule number one is… Don’t Let It Happen!

I’m not insinuating that there isn’t any good, hard working, professional adjusters remaining out there. I’m also not insinuating that all the adjusters are not trustworthy, or that all adjusters are trying to cheat people. There are many professional and courteous adjusters that go above the call of duty for many policyholders. However, are we so blind an delusional to think that an adjuster can’t make mistakes, that there will never be an adjuster that misses hidden damages, or that every adjuster who works for your insurance company has multiple years of experience with the type of claim on your building? Not Very Likely!

Have you ever obtained a second opinion before having a mechanic do major work on your car? Have you, or anyone you know, ever secured a second opinion before having surgery? A second opinion when hiring a landscaper, when buying a computer, or when hiring a contractor? Have you ever obtained more than one estimate to have work done on your home? Excuse me for assuming that you’ve answered a very loud and proud “YES,” to more than one of these questions, or all for that matter. Then why will policyholders (homeowners and business owners) allow the insurance company’s adjuster to out-right “TELL THEM,” what the damages of their insurance claim will cost without looking into themselves?

Many insurance company adjusters have attended classes to pass an insurance exam and have also attended classes to use insurance claim estimating programs. However, these same adjusters have never worked for a construction company, nor have they ever repaired or built a home, and many have never repaired any damages at their own home. If you end up with this type of adjuster to assess your insurance claim damages, chances are, they will likely miss items, materials, or construction procedures that are required to properly repair the damages.

Simply put, this is what you have been paying for all this time. To be protected when you have a claim. No one would require insurance advice from a professional to realize that this is YOUR money, it is YOUR insurance policy, it is YOUR property, which in turn makes it YOUR responsibility to protect yourself from mistakes or from being taken advantage of. Again, the insurance company adjuster could be 100% accurate with the final analysis and estimate numbers for your claim damages. Regardless of what you think may be true, YOU should be sure. Policyholders need to have an independent insurance appraiser or contractor provide them with a line item, detailed estimate that will ensure their adjuster was correct.

What Qualifies As A Line-Item, Detailed Insurance Claim Estimate?

Many contractors may use a square foot cost to replace a roof or siding on a home. However, insurance companies usually require an estimate that has been detailed by separating each line-item individually. By using the replacement of a damaged roof in our example; the insurance companies will require that each process and layer of the repairs be listed. They need to view each type of material being used to ensure the insured is not upgrading what they had. Surely the insured can upgrade, but, the insured pays for the difference between what they had and what they are upgrading to. That’s the reason they wish to see all items listed separately. Here’s an example of a detailed, line-item insurance repair estimate;

Although the numbers in the example are fictitious; it shows the basics of a Line Item, Detailed, Insurance Damage Estimate. Each of the line-items has been separated in complete detail. The estimate also breaks-down the descriptions, quantities, unit costs, and totals for each item as well. This type of detail is required and needed, so the insurance companies can compare and review each of the items unit costs with their adjusters numbers. Submitting the claim estimate in the format requested by your insurance company will result in a much faster settlement of the claim.

In events when their is an insurance dispute; by issuing a more detailed estimate – provides a much smoother, less time consuming process. It’s much more difficult for your insurance company to dispute an insurance claim estimate that is presented in the exact format that they have requested.

Watch out for yourself, protect and educate yourself, and always seek insurance advice by obtaining a second opinion. This should be the first thought on any and all insurance claim damages you happen to incur. If you fail to look out for yourself… Nobody Will?

Bookmark It

Water is something that we all can’t live without, it covers over 70% of the earth.  It is ironic that water also causes around 70% of all insurance claims.  Heavy, torrential rains, hurricanes, winter storms, and flood all are culprits of water damage.  Having water in your home is very stressful expensive for homeowners, property owners, and even the insurance companies.

Although it is somewhat common for a homeowner to find themselves with some water damage at one time or another, not all kinds of water damage are covered by insurance.  For example, if there is a rainstorm and rivers overflow and floods your basement, such an event is not covered in a regular homeowner’s Flood coverage is an add-on service you must purchase separately in many instances.

It also makes a difference on how the flooding occurred.  If a homeowner has a standard insurance policy and the water damage occurred because a tornado ripped off the roof, then your insurance will would take care of the water damages associated with the claim.  However, if it happened due to a storm surge, there’s a chance it won’t be covered.

Flooding and Natural disasters cause water-related insurance losses on a regular basis.  They are covered in the news quite often.  $40 billion dollars worth of damage in Hurricane Katrina is a shocking number.  On a smaller scale, there are practically daily water related insurance claims that amount to significant losses of money and property lost each year.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, “water damage and freezing claims occur about 1.5 times for each 100 home owner’s policies per year”.  That average is much higher than other homeowner claims like fire or theft.

There are ways to prevent some of these water damage claims.  You cannot control natural disasters, but you can prevent other types of water claims with regular maintenance.  Inspect your basement and roof on a regular basis.If you stay on top of home repairs, the odds of something catastrophic like water damage are smaller.  You can also clean out your gutters, which will help the water drain off of your roof.

It is important to utilize some tools to prevent damage as well.  If you live in a colder climate, insulate your water pipes.  It will make a big difference in them not freezing and bursting. You can also run your water very slowly overnight when it is really cold, or leave cabinets open by pipes.  If you live in a place where there are earthquakes, strap in your water heater.

You can also buy a sump pump and keep it handy in your basement.  You could hire a service to slant your lawn so water doesn’t collect against your house. Educate all members of your family how to turn off the main water shut-off valve, it is important to take action quickly if a problem is spotted.

Water is essential.  We can’t live without it.  It flows through our oceans and through our homes.  It is important to remember the disaster that water can cause, take preventative measures, and remember how to file a water damage claim if needed.

Bookmark It