Hurricane Preparedness: Essential Supplies to Weather the Storm

Hurricanes are increasingly fierce and unpredictable, capable of devastating homes, infrastructure, and entire communities. When they strike, vital services like electricity, water, and communication may vanish for days. That’s why building a comprehensive hurricane emergency kit is critical—not just for survival during the storm, but for recovery in the aftermath.

Critical Supplies for a Hurricane

1. Water

Water is the single most important item in any hurricane kit. FEMA and Ready.gov recommend storing at least one gallon per person, per day, for a minimum of three days. More is always better, especially if you anticipate being without utilities for an extended period. In addition to bottled or stored water, consider adding purification tablets or a portable filter to extend your supply.

2. Non-Perishable Food

Food storage should focus on items that don’t spoil without refrigeration. A three-day supply of shelf-stable options is the baseline, but keeping a two-week supply at home provides added security. Nutritious staples such as canned beans, nut butters, oats, dried fruit, and protein bars are excellent choices. Don’t forget to include a manual can opener so you can access what you’ve stored.

3. First Aid and Medications

When emergency services are delayed, even minor injuries can become serious. A complete first aid kit is essential, along with an adequate supply of prescription medications and other daily health items. Experts recommend checking your kit annually, replacing expired supplies, and keeping an extra refill of critical medications on hand throughout hurricane season.

4. Lighting and Power

After a hurricane, widespread power outages are almost inevitable. Relying on candles poses a fire risk, so it’s safer to use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns. Stockpile extra batteries, and if possible, add portable power banks or solar chargers to keep phones and small electronics running when outlets are unavailable.

5. Communication and Alerts

Staying informed can be lifesaving. Cell towers often fail in a storm, making a NOAA weather radio one of the most important tools in your kit. Battery-operated or hand-crank models ensure you’ll still receive emergency alerts when other communication systems are down. Keep a list of important phone numbers written on paper in case your phone dies or the networks are unavailable.

6. Tools and Shelter Supplies

Simple tools can make a major difference in storm recovery. A multi-tool, duct tape, and plastic sheeting can help with temporary repairs. Emergency blankets or sleeping bags provide warmth and comfort if you’re displaced, while whistles, trash bags, and other utility items can aid in signaling for help or maintaining sanitation when services are unavailable.

7. Hygiene and Sanitation

Disasters don’t pause daily needs. Hygiene items such as soap, hand sanitizer, moist towelettes, and feminine supplies should be included in every emergency kit. Garbage bags and plastic ties can be used for waste management, while waterproof packaging keeps essentials like toilet paper dry and usable.

8. Documents and Cash

When systems are down, access to your most important information can make recovery much easier. Keep copies of insurance policies, identification, medical information, and property records in a waterproof container, and consider backing them up digitally. Because ATMs and card readers often fail during power outages, keeping cash—particularly in small bills—ensures you can still purchase essentials.

9. Fuel and Evacuation Readiness

A storm can disrupt fuel supplies and make travel difficult, so keeping your gas tank at least half full throughout hurricane season is strongly advised. Prepare a grab-and-go evacuation bag with essential items such as medications, water, documents, and maps. If local officials issue evacuation orders, having these items ready can help you leave quickly and safely.

The Cost of Being Underprepared

Failing to prepare can lead to serious, even life-threatening consequences:

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.

 

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Hurricane Insurance Coverage for Policyholders

Hurricanes pose significant risks to property owners in vulnerable areas. Proper insurance coverage is essential to protect your investment and ensure a smooth recovery process. Here’s what you need to know to secure the right hurricane insurance coverage:

Why Adequate Hurricane Coverage Is Important

Hurricane coverage encompasses various protections against windstorm damage, flood damage, and additional living expenses (ALE) during recovery. This insurance is crucial for safeguarding both your property and financial stability.

Key Elements of Comprehensive Hurricane Coverage

Windstorm and Hurricane Coverage

When considering your insurance policy, start with windstorm and hurricane Coverage. This coverage is your essential defense against the destructive impacts of hurricanes. Make sure your policy includes protection against wind-related damage, such as roof damage and shattered windows. This coverage not only shields your property but also provides you with peace of mind. 

Flood Insurance

In hurricane-prone zones, flooding is a major concern. While Windstorm and Hurricane Coverage are crucial, they may not cover flooding resulting from storm surges or heavy rainfall. To address this gap, think about adding a separate Flood Insurance Policy. This comprehensive coverage takes care of both structural damage and your belongings in the event of flooding.

Additional Living Expenses (ALE) Coverage

After a hurricane, your home might be uninhabitable due to extensive damage. This is where Additional Living Expenses (ALE) Coverage comes into play. ALE ensures you have support for temporary housing, meals, and other necessities while your property is being restored. This provision in your policy can greatly ease the challenge you face during the post-hurricane period. 

Named Storm Deductibles

Understanding your policy’s deductibles, including Named Storm Deductibles, is crucial. These deductibles apply specifically to damage caused by named hurricanes or tropical storms. Keep in mind that these deductibles are often higher than your standard deductible. Knowing these details can help you avoid unexpected financial setbacks.

Timing is Key: Act Before the Storm

Once a storm is named, it’s too late to adjust your policy. Most carriers freeze policy changes as soon as a hurricane is on the radar. Having your insurance policy reviewed by a professional could make all the difference this hurricane season.

Not sure where to start? Submit your policy for review today!

When disaster strikes, documenting your property’s contents can mean the difference between a smooth insurance claim and a drawn-out dispute. Whether you’re a property owner preparing ahead or a contractor supporting your clients, a clear inventory is essential.

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The Claim Killer No One Talks About: The Date of Loss

The Date of Loss Matters More Than You Think

The date of loss (DOL) in a property insurance claim is one of the fundamental elements that influence the entire process of claim settlement. Yet, it’s often overlooked or misunderstood by policyholders.

What exactly is the date of loss? Why is it so important? How do you avoid common mistakes?

What Is the Date of Loss?

The date of loss refers to the specific day when the damage to your property occurred. Not when you noticed it, but when the event that caused the damage actually happened. In some cases, like a branch piercing your roof, it’s obvious. In others, like a slow leak causing water damage behind a wall, it’s harder to pinpoint. 

But here’s the thing: insurance carriers will claim they don’t work in gray areas. They need dates. And that date needs to fall within your policy period.

Why Getting the Date of Loss Right Is So Important

The date of loss isn’t just a formality, it’s the anchor that holds your entire claim in place. An accurate date keeps your claim within the rules of your policy, which often requires that you report damage within a specific time frame. If the damage happened outside of your policy period, or if your claim suggests it did, you could be denied coverage altogether.

It also affects what’s actually covered. Insurance policies evolve over time. A policy active in March may not cover the same things as the version active in May. If your date of loss is off, your claim might be reviewed under the wrong set of terms.

Legal timelines are also tied to the date of loss. From deadlines to submit paperwork to the statute of limitations on filing a lawsuit, everything is measured from that day forward. One wrong date can throw the whole timeline off track.

And when it comes to weather damage, things get even more specific. If your claim says a hailstorm caused your roof damage, the insurance carrier will pull historical weather data to confirm there was a storm on that day in your area. If there wasn’t, your claim could be denied for lack of evidence. That’s why aligning your DOL with verified storm data is so important—it gives your claim credibility.

At the end of the day, your date of loss is more than just a line on a form.

Aligning the Date of Loss with Weather Data

When a property damage claim involves weather-related events, like hail, hurricanes, or windstorms, accurately aligning the date of loss with weather data becomes a critical step in the process.

Verifying the Claim

Insurance carriers routinely cross-reference the reported date of loss with historical weather data. If a storm didn’t occur on the date listed, or if the data doesn’t support the severity of the event claimed, the entire claim can be called into question. Ensuring the date matches a verifiable weather event strengthens the credibility of your claim from the outset.

Determining the Cause of Damage

Specific weather conditions, such as high winds, hail impact, or heavy rainfall, help determine the cause of property damage. This distinction matters. If the carrier argues that the damage was due to wear and tear, not a covered event, accurate weather records can prove otherwise. Aligning the damage to a precise weather event can be the deciding factor in a claim’s approval or denial.

Involving Professional Analysis

In complex or disputed cases, meteorologists and weather forensics experts may be brought in to provide detailed reports. These professionals analyze storm paths, wind speeds, hail size, and more to connect the reported damage with actual weather activity. Their expertise adds authority to your claim and can help break through an insurer’s resistance.

Supporting Legal Integrity

If a claim is contested or suspected of being exaggerated or fraudulent, legally verifiable weather data becomes essential. It serves as an objective reference point and may be used as evidence if the dispute escalates to litigation.

Using Public and Professional Tools

Access to reliable weather data isn’t limited to experts. Tools like NOAA reports, satellite imaging, and specialized weather databases can corroborate your date of loss. When used by your public adjuster or claim advocate, these resources help build a solid foundation for your claim.

Knowing Your Policy Coverage Period

Understanding the exact coverage period of your insurance policy is more than knowing its start and end dates—it’s about knowing how that window of time affects every part of your claim. Attention to this detail helps in avoiding unnecessary challenges and paves the way for a smoother claim experience.

Eligibility for Coverage

For a claim to be considered valid, the date of loss must fall within the active policy period. If the event occurred even a day outside that window, the claim is likely to be denied regardless of the damage severity or circumstance.

Renewal and Expiration Timing

Losses that happen near the renewal or expiration date of a policy require extra scrutiny. It’s not uncommon for disputes to arise if the damage date is unclear or overlaps policy terms. Even a minor discrepancy in timing can lead to delays, coverage gaps, or outright denial.

Changes in Policy Terms

Endorsements, exclusions, and coverage modifications may shift from one policy period to the next. What was covered under last year’s policy might be excluded this year. Knowing which version of your policy applies on the date of loss is key to understanding what’s actually covered.

Extensions and Transitional Provisions

Some policies include grace periods, endorsements, or transitional clauses that can affect claim eligibility. These nuances are often overlooked, but they can make or break a claim if not clearly understood at the time of filing.

Future Impact of Reporting

Filing a claim within the coverage period doesn’t just impact the current settlement, it can influence future premiums, renewals, and insurability. Insurers take prior claims into account when pricing or underwriting future policies.

Submit your policy for review today!

The Most Common DOL Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

One of the biggest errors we see? Confusing the “date of discovery” with the actual “date of loss.” This typically happens with hidden or slow-developing issues like leaks, mold, or structural settling. But if the damage didn’t happen all at once, pinpointing the DOL requires investigation, not guesswork. Choosing the wrong DOL can derail the entire claim.

Another frequent problem is selecting a DOL without confirming that the policy was even active at the time. This is especially risky for properties that have recently changed hands, had gaps in coverage, or bounced between carriers.

Missing deadlines tied to the DOL is another big issue. Every policy has its own timeline for submitting a proof of loss, and missing that window—even unintentionally—can lead to reductions or outright denials.

And then there’s the weather. We’ve already mentioned it, but it’s worth repeating: if your claim involves wind, hail, or any other natural event, back up your DOL with solid weather data. Don’t assume the insurer will give you the benefit of the doubt. Odds are, they won’t.

Treat Your DOL Like the Foundation It Is

At Premier Claims, we’ve seen firsthand how a properly supported date of loss can streamline the claim process, and how an inaccurate one can unravel it. It influences everything: coverage, valuation, legal standing, and how long you have to take action.

So if you’re not 100% sure about your DOL, don’t guess. Get professional insight. We’re here to help you assess the damage, verify weather data, confirm coverage windows, and present your claim with precision and authority.

Because in this game, the details matter—and the date of loss is the detail that starts it all.

 

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

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.

Save on Insurance Premiums Without Sacrificing Coverage

Navigating the complex world of insurance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. For property owners, one of the most impactful ways to reduce premiums while maintaining excellent coverage is by reviewing and optimizing their insurance policies. 

Understanding Your Policy

Insurance policies consist of various components, including deductibles, coverage limits, and endorsements. Understanding these elements allows property owners to assess their policies effectively.

Deductibles

High deductibles often result in lower premiums. However, property owners should evaluate their financial capacity to cover the deductible in the event of a claim.

Coverage Limits

Reviewing coverage limits ensures adequate protection without overpaying for excessive coverage. Assess the property’s value and adjust coverage limits accordingly.

Endorsements

Additional coverages can be added through endorsements. Evaluate the necessity of endorsements based on the property’s specific needs to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Regular Policy Reviews

Insurance needs can evolve over time due to changes in property value, renovations, or lifestyle. Regular policy reviews, ideally conducted annually, allow property owners to align their coverage with their current requirements. By staying proactive, policyholders can identify potential areas for savings to reduce premiums and optimize their coverage.

Risk Mitigation Strategies

Implementing risk mitigation measures can lead to lower premiums. Property owners can consider:

Security Systems

Installing security systems, such as alarms and surveillance cameras, can reduce the property’s risk, leading to potential premium discounts.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance, including roof repairs, electrical updates, and plumbing improvements, demonstrates responsible property ownership and can result in reduced premiums.

Bundling Policies

Combining multiple insurance policies (e.g., property and auto) with the same insurer often results in substantial discounts, making it a cost-effective choice for property owners.

Policy Shopping and Comparison

Periodically shopping for insurance quotes and comparing policies from different providers is a proactive approach to securing competitive premiums. Additionally, it’s essential to obtain quotes from reputable insurers, ensuring a balance between cost and coverage quality.

Consulting with a Public Adjuster

Engaging a public adjuster, like those at Premier Claims, can significantly impact premium savings. Public adjusters have in-depth knowledge of insurance policies and can guide the policyholder on to best protect themselves and their property. Their expertise aids policyholders attempting to receive fair treatment and optimal coverage for their premiums. 

Property owners who invest time in understanding their policies, conducting regular reviews, implementing risk mitigation strategies, and exploring their options can achieve significant savings on premiums. By staying informed and proactive, property owners can make educated decisions that lead to substantial financial benefits.

Our team of seasoned public adjusters are on standby to assist you through the complexities of insurance coverage. To provide you with a comprehensive and accurate review of your policy, we invite you to complete our policy review. Subsequently, our team members will review your policy in-depth and reach back out to go over their findings at your convenience, allowing you to get the help you deserve!

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Untold Advantages of a Damage-Free Inspection

Untold Advantages of a Damage-Free Inspection

Property inspections are a crucial part of the insurance claims process, providing an accurate assessment of a property’s condition. For property owners, the fear of discovering damage can be daunting. Inspections that lead to no damage can leave a property owner relieved, yet frustrated by the time spent in getting the inspection done. However, receiving a damage-free inspection report is valuable and can lead to more benefits for the policyholder.

Understanding the Inspection Process

Property inspections serve to assess the condition of a property and complete documentation. When conducted by experienced professionals, these inspections help in identifying potential issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye. Insurance companies use these findings to determine coverage and policyholder benefits.

No Damage, No Worries

Discovering no damage during an inspection can provide policyholders with peace of mind. It means that their property is in good condition and doesn’t require immediate repairs. This situation also prevents the hassle of filing claims, which can be time-consuming and emotionally draining.

Proactive Maintenance and Preventing Future Issues

A damage-free inspection is an opportunity to continue proactive maintenance. Policyholders can use this information to reinforce their property’s resilience against future risks. Regular maintenance and addressing minor concerns, guided by the inspection results, becomes a strategic investment in potentially minimizing the likelihood of extensive damages.

Creating Baseline Evidence

A damage-free inspection provides baseline documented evidence of the state of the property. Should the property experience future damage, the prior damage-free findings serve as evidence to support future insurance claims filed on the property. Brent Roberts, Inspections Manager at Premier Claims, recommends, “In the event of future damage to a property, it’s ideal to have a prior thorough inspection that resulted in no- or minimal damage to the property. This provides a good baseline of documentation, and photo evidence can be compared with new evidence to identify all damage.”

Lower Insurance Premiums

Regular inspections with no reported damage can reflect positively on a policyholder’s insurance profile. Proactive property maintenance could lead you to lower premium options. By demonstrating the property’s well-kept condition over time, policyholders can potentially secure more affordable insurance rates. In addition, a history of minimal claims reflects responsible property ownership, potentially enhancing the policyholders’ standing with the insurance company.

Empowerment through Knowledge

Being informed about the property’s condition empowers policyholders to make strategic decisions. Armed with this knowledge, they can better understand their property’s vulnerabilities, improve its resilience, and make informed choices regarding insurance coverage and risk management. Policyholders should view inspections as an opportunity to understand the true condition of their properties.

While discovering damage can be concerning, a damage-free inspection can be equally as valuable. It signifies a well-maintained property, potential cost savings on insurance premiums, and a positive impact on the policyholder’s overall insurance history.

We are here to educate, guide, and provide peace of mind to policyholders across the nation. If you have any questions or concerns regarding property inspections, claims management, or insurance policies—Reach out to our team today!

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Public Adjuster Near Me: Things to Look for and Consider

Recovering from the devastation of storm damage is a complex process, and having a reliable public adjuster by your side can make all the difference. The aftermath of a natural disaster is overwhelming, especially when it comes to dealing with insurance claims. Partnering with a public adjuster who understands the challenges you face and tailors them to you and your property’s needs helps streamline the claims process. Moreover, a public adjuster is your advocate, equipped with the expertise and knowledge to navigate the intricate landscape of insurance policies. Their partnership allows you to better equip yourself to fight for a fair settlement, enabling you to rebuild and restore your life. Now, you may be asking, how do I find a public adjuster near me?

Top 5 Things to Look For in a Public Adjuster

1. Verify Licensing & Accreditation

Ensure the public adjuster you consider is licensed and accredited by the relevant regulatory bodies. This accreditation validates their expertise and adherence to industry standards, providing you with confidence in their professionalism.

2. Evaluate Experience & Specialization

Look for an adjuster with a proven track record in handling various types of damages, such as water damage, hail damage, fire damage, and hurricane damage. Specialization in specific areas ensures they possess the expertise needed to handle your unique situation effectively.

3. Transparency & Trustworthiness

Transparent communication about fees, the claims process, and the expected timeline are essential. Furthermore, a trustworthy public adjuster maintains open and honest communication, ensuring you are well informed at every step.

4. Check Client Testimonials and Reviews

Reading testimonials and reviews from previous clients provides valuable insights into the adjuster’s reputation and the satisfaction of their clients. Premier Claims takes pride in its positive client feedback, reflecting our commitment to excellent service and successful outcomes.

5. Investigate Communication & Availability

Effective communication is key to a successful partnership. Evaluate the adjuster’s responsiveness and availability. Premier Claims ensures that our team is readily available to address your concerns and provide updates, offering you peace of mind during the claims process.

Why Choose Premier Claims?

At Premier Claims, our expertise goes beyond mere professional qualifications. Our team, consisting of industry veterans with advanced certifications and ongoing education, ensures we stay ahead of industry trends and policy changes. A public adjuster with a fully equipped team of professionals can significantly impact the outcome of your claim for the better. Premier Claims is dedicated to surpassing industry standards by incorporating innovation, technology, and a meticulous claim management process. Our six-step process is committed to delivering unparalleled results and safeguarding your interests at every stage. Certain states may have regulations that determine the services a public adjuster may provide. Our process and services we are able to provide will be based on the state regulations. To learn more, visit our Public Adjuster Legal Disclaimer. When you choose Premier Claims, you benefit from:

Expert Knowledge & Continuous Education

Our professionals hold advanced degrees and certifications, constantly updating their skills to navigate the ever-evolving insurance landscape effectively.

Tailored Strategies for Maximum Results

We understand the uniqueness of each case. Consequently, our team creates customized strategies, attempting to maximize your settlement based on the intricacies of your specific situation.

Supporting You Beyond the Claim

Our team actively offers personalized policy guidance, addresses industry inquiries, and commits to providing you with tailored support. We’re here to ensure your peace of mind extends beyond the claims process, offering expertise and assistance whenever you need it.

Your journey to reclaiming your life after storm damage begins with choosing the right public adjuster. Moreover, Premier Claims combines expertise, integrity, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. Contact Premier Claims today to discover how we can help you and your property!

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Additional Living Expenses for Commercial Properties

Owning commercial property comes with its own set of challenges, especially when unforeseen events disrupt business operations. Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage, often overlooked by commercial property owners, can be a crucial aspect of recovery. Premier Claims is here to shed light on ALE coverage for commercial properties.

Understanding Additional Living Expenses (ALE) for Commercial Properties

Navigating Commercial ALE

Additional Living Expenses (ALE) for commercial properties serve a purpose similar to its residential counterpart. In the event of covered perils, such as fire, flood, or other disasters, ALE can provide financial support for temporary relocation and ongoing business operations.

Business Interruption and ALE

What your insurance carrier may not explicitly outline is the interplay between Business Interruption (BI) coverage and ALE. While ALE is designed for the physical relocation of the business, BI coverage addresses financial losses resulting from the interruption. It’s crucial to understand how these two components work together as they aim to provide comprehensive coverage for your commercial property.

Coverage Limitations

Commercial property insurance policies may not thoroughly detail the limitations of Additional Living Expenses coverage. Your insurance carrier may not expressly communicate what expenses are covered and the extent of reimbursement. It’s imperative to review your policy with a keen eye for those details or seek professional guidance to avoid potential gaps in coverage.

The Importance of Detailed Documentation

Temporary Relocation Costs

Your insurance may not stress enough the importance of documenting not only the costs associated with temporary relocation but also the impact on business operations. Detailed records of expenses such as equipment rentals, storage, and the logistical aspects of maintaining or relocating operations are crucial for a smooth claims process & recovery.

Communication Protocols

Keep your insurance carrier informed about any changes in your business’s status or unexpected expenses. Open and transparent communication can expedite the claims process and prevent potential disputes.

Seeking Professional Guidance

At Premier Claims, we understand the intricate needs of commercial property owners. Our specialized expertise goes beyond conventional insurance knowledge to address the unique challenges faced by businesses during property damage incidents. We commit to standing by your side, providing comprehensive guidance tailored to your properties and business needs, and aiming to thoroughly assess and document every aspect of your commercial ALE claim. Our goal is not only to secure the coverage you deserve but to make the claims process as seamless as possible.

For commercial property owners, Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage is an often overlooked but critical component of insurance. Understanding the intricacies of ALE for commercial properties empowers you to safeguard your business during challenging times. Premier Claims is your dedicated partner, offering not only guidance but also proactive advocacy to navigate the complexities of commercial ALE claims.

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Hurricane Insurance Claim Timeline for Chicken Farm

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 a 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 GeorgiaHurricane Insurance Claim Timeline for Chicken Farm in GeorgiaHurricane 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 who 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, the 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 the 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, 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 a 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 the release of 5% debris removal funds.

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

 

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