NAVIGATING THE STORMS TOGETHER

Reflecting on a Year of Advocacy, Resilience & Results

This year, our team has exemplified the true value of expertise and advocacy in the claims process. By meticulously documenting every detail, negotiating with carriers, and ensuring that our clients, the policyholders, always come first, we’ve been able to deliver results that matter. Our focus on protecting our clients’ rights and helping them navigate the often-complex insurance landscape has reaffirmed why having a trusted advocate is so crucial during challenging times.

From the devastating tornadoes that ravaged the Midwest in the spring, to the powerful hurricanes whose impact extended far inland, and the intense wind and hailstorms that struck communities across the nation, standing by our clients every step of the way. We are incredibly grateful for the trust our clients have placed in us and the opportunity to help them rebuild.

As a year in review, we’ve included some photos of the damage and storms we’ve worked on throughout the year. These moments reflect not only the challenges we’ve faced together but also the resilience and determination of our team and clients. We are deeply thankful for the hard work of our team, the trust of our clients, and the collective efforts of everyone who has helped advocate for policyholders.

Below are a few articles we’ve published this year to help spread awareness and education:

Will My Insurance Premiums Go Up? – Learn if your premiums will go up if you seek professional help in navigating the claims process.

Filing a Claim Without Losing Coverage: Know Your Rights – The misconception is that an insurance carrier will drop you if file a claim, but its important to understand that such action is unlikely and illegal.

Are You Underinsured? – Recent market changes—skyrocketing construction costs, supply chain delays, and increasing natural disasters—mean your coverage from two years ago may not cover you today.

Depreciation in Insurance Claims: Are You Getting Short-Changed? – When your property is damaged and you file an insurance claim, but you may quickly discover the insurance carrier short-changes you because of depreciation.

The Role of a Public Adjuster vs Insurance Adjuster – Understanding the role of a Public Adjuster versus an Insurance Carrier Adjuster can make all the difference in how much you get paid.

Understanding Size, Formation, and Damage

Hail, a type of solid precipitation that forms within thunderstorm updrafts, has fascinated and intimidated humans for centuries. Frequently causing damage to homes, cars, and aircraft, and posing a significant threat to people and livestock, these formidable ice orbs are a spectacle of nature’s power.

From Raindrop to Hailstone: How Hail Forms

Hailstones take birth when ordinary raindrops are lifted by thunderstorm updrafts into the frosty regions of the atmosphere. Here, they freeze and start their journey of growth, colliding with other liquid water drops that freeze onto their surface. This growth process can result in hailstones having layers of clear and cloudy ice, depending on the conditions they encounter during their ascent.

Interestingly, these layers don’t form due to the hailstone going through up and down cycles within the thunderstorm, contrary to popular belief. Thunderstorm winds are not just vertical; they also have a horizontal component that can significantly influence the hailstone’s trajectory and growth.

Gravity’s Pull: How Hail Falls To The Ground

A hailstone’s descent is all about timing and balance. It falls when it becomes too heavy for the thunderstorm’s updraft to support or if the updraft weakens. Smaller hailstones, due to their lightweight, can be blown away from the updraft by horizontal winds. As such, larger hail tends to fall closer to the updraft than smaller hail.

The speed of falling hailstones depends on a plethora of factors: their size, the friction they encounter with the surrounding air, local wind conditions, and even the degree of their melting. The expected fall speed ranges from 9 mph for small hailstones to over 100 mph for those with diameters exceeding 4 inches.

The Geography of Hail: Where it Strikes the Most

In 2024, the United States once again claimed its title as the hail damage capital, with Nebraska, Colorado, and Wyoming—known as “Hail Alley”—experiencing the most frequent storms. These states endure an average of 7-9 hail days per year, with the 2024 season breaking records for both frequency and severity.

Hailstorms create paths known as hail swaths as the storms move while the hail falls. These swaths can vary from a few acres to an area 10 miles wide and 100 miles long. Some storms churn out a mass of small hail instead of large hailstones, which can create hazardous conditions resembling icy winter roads when covering roadways completely.

Hail Size: From Peas to Grapefruits

According to NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory, the largest hailstone recovered in the United States fell in Vivian, South Dakota, on June 23, 2010. It had a massive diameter of 8 inches, a circumference of 18.62 inches, and weighed almost 2 pounds. However, hail sizes vary significantly. They’re often compared to everyday objects for easier estimation:

- - Pea = 1/4 inch diameter
  - Mothball = 1/2 inch diameter
  - Penny = 3/4 inch diameter
  - Nickel = 7/8 inch
  - Quarter = 1 inch (hail this size or larger is considered severe)
  - Ping-Pong Ball = 1 1/2 inch
  - Golf Ball = 1 3/4 inches
  - Tennis Ball = 2 1/2 inches
  - Baseball = 2 3/4 inches
  - Teacup = 3 inches
  - Softball = 4 inches
  - Grapefruit = 4 1/2 inches

In the end, it’s crucial to remember the damage potential of hail and take appropriate safety measures during hailstorms. From car windshields to rooftops and from crop fields to livestock, hail can wreak considerable havoc. Stay informed and stay safe!

Wondering How Long a Hurricane Insurance Claim Takes to Settle?

Follow as we track the series of events after Hurricane Helene and the insurance claim process for a complex claim in Homerville, Georgia. Comprised of two large buildings, the layer chicken farm experienced significant destruction that resulted in many of the birds roaming outside a secure enclosure, or lost due to the damage.

Timeline to Recovery following a Hurricane Insurance Claim
Layer Chicken Farm in Homerville, Georgia

26 September 2024

11:10 PM — Hurricane Helene made landfall in Keaton Beach, Florida.

27 September 2024

2:45 AM — Hurricane Helene impacts Homerville, Georgia.

30 September 2024

11:31 AM — Premier Claims conducted on—site inspection, and gathered initial documentation (policy declaration pages, and business related documents).

12:43 PM — Premier Claims established representation with the carrier and requested contact information for the carrier adjuster assigned to the claim.

1:21 PM — Premier Claims confirmed coverage for mitigation, and worked with the contractor selected by the policyholder to begin mitigation efforts.

01 October 2024

10:23 AM — Premier Claims client specialist conducted a welcome call with the policyholder to discuss the process, our team members and their role in their claim, the initial mitigation coverage and next steps in the process.

2:02 PM — Premier Claims established communication with the carrier adjuster, and requested a certified copy of the full policy, scheduled joint inspection, and confirmation of policy limits.

03 October 2024

8:03 AM — Premier Claims inspector met on-site with the independent adjuster hired by the insurance carrier to conduct a more thorough inspection to ensure all damage was documented and considered by the carrier.

10:17 AM — Premier Claims gathered documentation for the most recent cost of repairs and service for damaged equipment.

1:59 PM — Premier Claims secured a written email confirmation from the independent adjuster that the buildings are classified as a total loss, as well as additional equipment on site.

Hurricane Insurance Claim Timeline for Chicken Farm in Georgia

04 October 2024

8:07 AM — The carrier reassigned the farm equipment parts of the claim to an additional adjuster that requested additional information to process the claim.

9:55 AM — The carrier reassigned the business interruption coverage of the claim to an outside forensic accounting firm.

10:57 AM — Due to the equipment coverage being reassigned to a new adjuster, Premier Claims inspector went back on—site to gather more photographic and video evidence of agricultural equipment that was damaged.

2:28 PM — Premier Claims received the certified copy of the full insurance policy, and our legal team began their thorough review of the policy. During their review, they identified the policyholder held an ACV policy, but was able to recoup a 5% debris removal after completion.

3:36 PM — Premier Claims adjuster spoke with the forensic CPA to discuss the business interruption coverage. As a result, we received the full list of necessary information they will require for this claim, business, and agricultural type. We coordinated with the policyholder to start compiling the necessary documentation.

09 October 2024

8:19 AM — Premier Claims received a final negotiated estimate totaling full policy limits for the structural damage, as well as 5% in debris removal to be issued following completion.

10 October 2024

3:15 PM — Policyholder compiled a portion of documentation for business interruption coverage. We continue working with policyholders to compile financial documents necessary to receive business interruption coverage.

11 October 2024

11:24 AM — Premier Claims adjuster followed up with the insurance carrier on releasing undisputed funds. Told to be in transit by the end of next week.

17 October 2024

8:14 AM — The carrier has reassigned the farm equipment parts of the claim to an additional adjuster. This is the third adjuster reviewing the coverage for the equipment.

18 October 2024

11:12 AM — Premier Claims adjuster followed up with the insurance carrier on releasing undisputed funds that were promised to be mailed last week.

23 October 2024

11:28 AM — Premier Claims secured written confirmation that full limit coverage for the equipment. Carrier will be purchasing equipment for the full coverage limits through a bill of sale.

24 October 2024

11:08 AM — Premier Claims received confirmation that the carrier has released an initial payment for the structure and equipment settlement.

29 October 2024

10:15 AM — Premier Claims received the executed bill of sale from the policyholder and delivered it to the carrier and requested a full release of payment for the equipment.

01 November 2024

2:15 PM — Premier Claims received initial payment from the carrier. Team overnighted check for endorsement from the mortgage company.

Ongoing Efforts

1 — Premier Claims client specialist continues to work with the policyholder to organize and gather the necessary historical financial information to receive business interruption coverage.

2 — Premier Claims adjuster is working closely with the contractor to compile all invoices and completion documents to issue release of 5% debris removal funds.

3 — Premier Claims advising the policyholder to secure a more inclusive policy that contains recoverable depreciation and adequately covers the needs of poultry farms.

The post-recovery after a hurricane can be a challenging and stressful experience. Understanding damage assessment, contacts, and expectations post-hurricane as a local resident can ease recovery burdens significantly.

Assessing Hurricane Damage & Mitigation

Prior to the storm, we recommend following a detailed checklist, having your property inspected, and accurately documenting the current condition of the property.

For more information, read the following blogs:

After the storm has passed, your responsibility as a policyholder will be to assess the damages to your property and mitigate further damage. We recommend inspecting the exterior of your property looking for any broken or loose materials. In addition, inspect the interior of your property for water leakage or pooling water. Early connection, detailed documentation of damage, and mitigation strategies are vital for your insurance claim process.

Important Contacts After the Hurricane

In regards to property damage after a hurricane, there is a significant need for mitigation professionals, inspectors, and contractors in the community. Insurance carriers will also experience an increase in call volume and claims coming in from the community. Prior to the storm, we advise having a list of important contact information including your insurance carrier, mitigation companies, contractors, government authorities, medical assistance during a disaster, and your local Red Cross.

Our team is readily available during a hurricane. In the aftermath of the storm, we take over the communication, scheduling, and coordination with your insurance carrier, inspectors, mitigation companies, and contractors. We take the burden of handling the devastating damage from the hurricane so you can have a full focus on your family, health & safety following the storm.

What to Expect as a Resident

As a resident, you can expect the recovery process to take time. The immediate aftermath of a hurricane can be chaotic and challenging, often requiring a great deal of patience and persistence. Communities will come together to overcome the struggles of power outages, limited access to food and water, as well as the extensive damage to homes, businesses, and natural resources.

Keep informed about the latest updates and instructions from location authorities to help you navigate the recovery process. The days and weeks following a hurricane may result in delays of power recovery and availability of essential services. It’s important to be prepared to live without essential services for a period of time, and to come together as a community to support one another as you navigate the recovery from the hurricane’s impact.

IN RECENT NEWS

On today’s episode of the Butch and Bob Show on Big Dog Country station in Georgia, one of our most experienced and valued policyholder advocates, Caitlyn Milligan discusses the restoration efforts following Hurricane Helene.

Hurricanes are unpredictable and destructive forces of nature, wreaking havoc on homes, infrastructure, and the lives of many. When a hurricane hits, access to critical services may be severely limited or nonexistent. That’s why being fully prepared is essential—not only to get you through the storm but also to manage the potentially dangerous aftermath. Let’s break down the must-have hurricane survival supplies that could make all the difference—plus, the potential consequences if you find yourself unprepared.

Critical Supplies for a Hurricane

Water: Water is survival 101—hands down the most crucial supply. The rule? One gallon per person, per day. With hurricanes, you never know how long the water supply could be compromised. According to an article in the New York Times in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, Stefanie Arcangelo of the Red Cross says, “You don’t know what is necessarily going to happen due to the storm’s impact. The storm could impact the public water system.” We recommend to over-prepare when it comes to hydration!
Non-Perishable Food: Fresh food is often off the menu during a hurricane. Power outages mean refrigerators aren’t an option, so load up on non-perishables like canned goods, crackers, peanut butter, and freeze-dried foods. The key is to pick items that don’t spoil and are easy to eat when you’re running on backup plans.
First Aid Kit: Flying debris and broken glass can turn your living room into a danger zone. And with emergency services stretched thin, you may be on your own for a bit. Keep a well-stocked first aid kit with bandages, gauze, antiseptics, and a few days’ worth of medications on hand to manage injuries until help arrives.
Flashlights and Batteries: Total power outages are practically a given in a hurricane. Skip the candles (fire risk) and rely on trusty flashlights or battery-powered lanterns. Stock up on batteries because, in the pitch dark, they’ll be your lifeline.
Portable Radio: Cell towers and Wi-Fi can fail when you need them most. A NOAA weather radio (battery-operated or hand-crank) will keep you in the loop on storm updates and emergency info.
Cash: When the power goes out, so do ATMs and card readers. Cash is your go-to for essential purchases when electronic payments aren’t an option.

The Cost of Being Underprepared

What happens if you’re not ready? The consequences of under-preparing for a hurricane aren’t just inconvenient—they can be life-threatening.

No Water? Dehydration sets in fast, worsening pre-existing conditions or triggering new ones.
No Food? Hunger weakens your body and leaves you more vulnerable to illness.
No Flashlights or Batteries? Treating injuries in the dark can be next to impossible.
No First Aid Kit? Without the right supplies, minor injuries can turn into serious infections.

Special Considerations for Vulnerable Individuals

Don’t forget to stock extra supplies if you’re responsible for elderly family members, small children, or pets. They’ll have specific needs, and those are easy to overlook when you’re rushing to prepare.

Want to be really ready? Download our full Hurricane Preparedness Checklist and make sure you’re covered before the storm strikes.

The destruction after a hurricane can be immense and overwhelming. And despite the aftermath of a hurricane, the last thing you want is for your property to suffer more damage. Your insurance policy will also mandate for you to mitigate further damages. We’ll discuss your duty as a policyholder to mitigate further damages, options for mitigation, and how mitigation factors into your insurance claim.

Policyholder Responsibilities to Mitigate Further Damages

Your insurance policy mandates that you take reasonable steps to protect your property from additional damage post-hurricane. The language will vary in each policy, but the overall objective is the same— protect your property from further damage.

Duties After Loss or Damage

Check your insurance policy for detailed guidelines on what actions you should take after your property suffers hurricane damage. Complying with your policy terms will be crucial in your claims process.

Documenting All Expenses Incurred During Mitigation

Keep records of all costs you incur while taking steps to prevent further damage to your property. These records serve as proof of expenses when you file your insurance claim.

Hurricane Ian Damage

Options for Mitigating Against Further Damage

We recommend seeking the advice and assistance of a professional after a hurricane, as the damages can be quite extensive and overwhelming. A professional will inspect your damages, provide an estimate, and perform the mitigation for you. In severe damage cases, a specialty mitigation company may be required to tend to more complex mitigation requirements.

Common Mitigation Applications Often Include

- - Tarping roofs to avoid leaks or intrusion of other debris
  - Securing damaged areas where leaks could occur
  - Covering broken windows or compromised opening
  - Removing surrounding debris.

Mitigation costs can be a burden under your insurance policy. It’s crucial not to compromise on mitigation efforts because inadequate protection could result in mold, mildew, and additional structural damage that may not be covered by your insurance. We recommend reviewing your policy ahead of time to understand the required level of mitigation and ensure you’re prepared before a hurricane occurs. You can have a complimentary policy review by our legal team here!

How Mitigation Factors into Your Insurance Claim

According to your insurance policy, your insurance carrier expects you to take reasonable steps to protect your damaged property from further harm. In most cases, the costs of these actions can be reimbursed under your policy.

However, costly methods like shrink wrapping, which temporarily secures a tarp on your roof, may complicate cost recovery. During a hurricane, appropriate alternatives, supplies, and mitigation services could be scarce for a prolonged period. It’s crucial to communicate with your insurance carrier to avoid paying out of pocket for mitigation. During your preparation for the hurricane, we recommend having a list of mitigation companies that you can quickly deploy to your property to inspect following the storm

Failing to mitigate could reduce your final settlement or lead to a claim denial. Just as it’s essential to document your property before and immediately after a storm, documenting the mitigation process is equally vital.

Documentation Recommendations

- - Taking photos from different angles of each mitigation step
  - Using videos as needed
  - Keeping records of communications with vendors, receipts, and materials

Promptly mitigating further damages after a hurricane protects your property and can strengthen your insurance claim. Premier Claims is dedicated to guiding policyholders through every step of the recovery process.

Severe weather events, such as hailstorms, have become increasingly more common and devastating in recent years. As we enter an era where the cost of insured losses from severe storms continues to rise, it becomes crucial for property owners to act promptly after a date of loss. Get ready to explore the significance of taking immediate action in the wake of extreme weather like this year’s hail storms, gain insights on the rising costs of storm damage, and discover valuable guidance on protecting your property.

Why Acting Promptly Matters

When faced with property damage caused by hail or other severe weather, time is of the essence. Acting promptly allows you to:

Mitigate further damage: Addressing issues quickly can prevent additional damage to your property and save you from costly repairs.
Expedite the claims process: Reporting the loss promptly helps initiate the claims process, ensuring you receive compensation in a timely manner.
Preserve evidence: Acting promptly allows you to document the damage before it worsens, providing crucial evidence for your insurance claim.

Storm Damage (1)

The Soaring Costs of Severe Weather:

Hailstorms have had a significant financial impact, with insured losses skyrocketing in recent decades. Gallagher Re, a reinsurance firm, reports insured losses from hail exceeding $10 billion since 2008. In 2023 alone, insured losses from severe convective storms are projected to surpass $30 billion. With the growing number of severe weather events, it’s crucial to be proactive in protecting your property and securing the necessary coverage.

Reviewing Policy (1)

Protecting Your Property:

To safeguard your property and ensure a smooth claims process, consider the following steps:

Document the damage: Take photographs or videos of the property damage immediately after the event, providing visual evidence for your insurance claim.
Consult with a Public Adjuster: Seeking assistance from a licensed Public Adjuster can help streamline your claims process. They will advocate for your rights, assess the damage accurately, and help negotiate a fair settlement with your insurance carrier based on your states guidelines.
Mitigating further damage: Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage to your property, such as covering exposed areas or making temporary repairs. Keep receipts and document the expenses incurred.

Acting promptly after a date of loss is essential to protect your property and ensure a smooth claims process. With the increasing costs of severe weather events, it’s crucial to be proactive in securing the necessary coverage and taking immediate steps to mitigate further damage. By documenting the damage, reporting the loss promptly, and seeking assistance from a Public Adjuster, you can navigate the claims process with confidence.

Remember, time is of the essence when it comes to protecting your property from severe weather-related losses. Act promptly, protect your investment, and fight for the coverage you deserve. If you have any questions, please reach out to our team today.

Vandalism – a term that, unfortunately, is all too familiar to commercial property owners. Acts of intentional damage can bring about significant financial consequences. But understanding the different forms of vandalism can go a long way in minimizing their impact. From a sociological perspective, vandalism isn’t a monolithic concept. It assumes various forms, each presenting its unique challenges. Understanding the motives behind these destructive acts, as outlined by renowned sociologist Stanley Cohen, can guide you in better protecting your property and minimizing your financial risk. Let’s explore these seven types of vandalism and see how commercial property owners can stay prepared:

1. Acquisitive Vandalism: A Threat to Your Valuables

Acquisitive vandalism, characterized by the act of destruction to acquire goods or money, poses a significant threat to businesses. For instance, a burglar might break a window to steal merchandise. As a property owner, installing secure locks, surveillance cameras, and alarm systems can deter such actions. Insurance policies covering theft are critical in this scenario.

2. Tactical Vandalism: Unwanted Attention

Tactical vandalism is about getting noticed. Protestors might deface property to draw attention to their cause. While it’s tough to predict such occurrences, maintaining a neutral stance in controversial matters can keep your property out of the firing line. Vandalism coverage in your property insurance policy can provide the needed safety net.

3. Ideological Vandalism: Making a Statement

This form of vandalism arises when political, religious, or social ideologies come about. Insurance that covers acts of vandalism can safeguard your property against the financial impact of such acts.

4. Vindictive Vandalism: When Personal Becomes Professional

Vindictive vandalism stems from personal vendetta and spite, and can unexpectedly land at your doorstep. Making adequate security measures and a robust insurance policy are essential.

5. Play Vandalism: Destructive Fun

Play vandalism is destruction for fun, often by kids or teenagers. For instance, ensuring your property is well-lit and investing in high-quality security systems can make it less attractive to these mischievous thrill-seekers. Furthermore, a comprehensive insurance policy will help cover the costs of any damages.

6. Malicious Vandalism: The Love for Chaos

Malicious vandalism lacks concrete motive beyond the desire to create chaos. An individual who lights a fire in a public park with no particular motive other than to watch things burn would be engaging in malicious vandalism. Enhanced security, vigilance, and insurance coverage are necessary to shield your business from such random acts.

7. Epidemic Vandalism: The Domino Effect

Epidemic vandalism involves large-scale destruction triggered by a specific event like a sports victory or political unrest. Here, the best defense lies in a good offense. Proactive security measures, along with an insurance policy that covers riot damage, are essential.

Understanding the seven types of vandalism not only provides insight into the potential risks but also guides you in selecting the right insurance coverage to protect your business assets. This knowledge empowers commercial property owners to minimize their financial risk and safeguard their businesses against unforeseen damages. Remember, the cost of an insurance policy is insignificant compared to the financial burden of an unexpected vandalism event.

Protect your business, prepare for the future, and ensure peace of mind by recognizing and preparing for these seven faces of vandalism.

2024: Reflecting on a Year of Advocacy, Resilience & Results