RESIDENTIAL CLAIMS

We specialize in all aspects of Residential and Business Property Losses.
On Residential Claims, that includes:

• Dwelling
• Other Structures
• Personal Property and Contents
• Additional Living Expenses and Loss of Use

Then there are terms such as:

ACV (actual cash value)	RCV (replacement cost value)
ALE (additional living expenses)	LOU (loss of Use)
POL (proof of loss)	Code Upgrade
Coinsurance	Period of Restoration
Mediation	Appraisal
EUO (examination under oath)

The vast majority of Homeowners have never read their insurance policy. Most of those that have, do not understand it. Policies have endorsements and between the policy, endorsements, etc., coverage can be excluded in one area but given back in another. We have had numerous clients whose claims had been denied until we were retained. It can be very confusing. Remember, the insurance company adjusters are interpreting the policy according to their company guidelines which serves their best interest, not yours.

The adjuster may try to pressure you into using one of their approved contractors. This should be a RED FLAG for you. When you question the amount of their estimate, they tell you their contractor can do the repairs for that amount and that is all they are going to pay. Their contractors, in most cases, have agreed to complete repairs based on the insurance company’s pricing list. This list is usually lower than standard contracting prices. It is not uncommon for the contractor to take short cuts or use less qualified workers in order to still make a profit.

The insurance company rarely guarantees the work of their contractor. They give you a list and tell you to pick one. Then later when you have a problem, you are told that you picked the contractor and that the insurance company is not responsible.

Some insurance companies require their contractors to buy their materials from certain suppliers because the insurance company receives a kickback, discount or whatever term they choose to call it. The contractor may be able to purchase materials for less some place else, but is not allowed to do so.

Not all insurance companies or adjusters act improperly. Some do so because of their company guidelines and some due to a lack of training and proper supervision. But no matter which insurance company or adjuster you have when you reach settlement, if you do not have a public adjuster representing you, your money is being left on the table. From our experience, that could range from a few thousand dollars to several million dollars. Our clients have received up to ten times the insurance company’s original offer or more after we were retained.

Please call us without any obligation. At the very least, you will receive some very necessary free information!