Hurricane Helene Update with HailTrace

IN RECENT NEWS

In this insightful discussion, Kyle Maring, CEO of Premier Claims, sits down with a representative from HailTrace to discuss the impact of Hurricane Helene. They explore the current challenges faced by affected communities and outline the crucial next steps for restoration and recovery efforts. Tune in to hear their professional perspectives on navigating the aftermath of such a devastating storm.

Surviving Hurricane Helene and Bad Faith Tactics

What You Need to Know About Insurance and Bad Faith Tactics

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, thousands of families are still displaced, uncertain of when—or if—they’ll be able to return to their homes. With homes flooded, roofs torn off, and belongings destroyed, the path to recovery is overwhelming. Many are still waiting to hear about loved ones, while others have only just begun the daunting process of gathering what remains to file insurance claims.

While you focus on your family’s safety and rebuilding your life, it’s vital to be aware of a harsh truth: not all insurance carriers will treat you fairly. This blog is here to help you navigate the claim process, protect your rights, and avoid falling victim to bad faith tactics used by some insurers.

What Is “Bad Faith,” and Why Should You Care?

Bad faith refers to deceitful practices by insurers who, rather than honoring the terms of your policy, choose to delay, deny, or underpay your claim. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, these tactics can slow down the recovery process at a time when you need immediate assistance. After enduring such a loss, the last thing you expect is for your insurance provider to offer a settlement that barely covers the damage. Yet, many victims are shocked when they receive an offer that feels like a slap in the face. If this sounds alarming, it’s because these strategies are all too common. Knowing what to watch for is your first line of defense.

Steps to Protect Yourself as You Start Filing Your Claim

If you’re just beginning to gather the items you need for your insurance claim, being aware of the possibility of bad-faith tactics is critical. Here’s how to approach the process carefully and protect yourself:

1. Document Everything Thoroughly

As you begin your claim, take detailed photos and videos of the damage—if and when it’s safe to do so. Thorough documentation will support your claim, whether it’s a collapsed roof, waterlogged furniture, or shattered windows. If possible, keep all receipts for emergency repairs, temporary housing, or any other related expenses.

Insurance carriers may try to dispute the extent of your loss. Having comprehensive documentation can help you counter any attempts to undervalue your claim.

2. Be Wary of Early Settlement Offers

Once you file your claim, your insurer may try to offer a quick, lowball settlement. This may seem tempting—especially if you’re displaced and need immediate assistance—but these offers often fall far below what your policy entitles you to receive. You don’t have to accept the first offer. Taking the time to review and negotiate can prevent you from being shortchanged.

As our Client Specialist MaKayla Fountain explains, “I’ve experienced many cases where the carrier has bullied the insured into settling the claim or settling for less. They threaten to drop the policy or raise the insured’s premiums. They put a lot of fear into the insured.” This fear often drives policyholders to accept offers that don’t come close to covering their losses.

It’s crucial to take a step back, understand your rights, and not let fear drive your decision.

3. Understand Your Policy

Before you file, review your insurance policy to understand what’s covered and what’s not. Many homeowners are unaware of certain exclusions or limitations, which can lead to surprises down the line.

Insurers may use complicated language or fine print as a shield, denying claims that are otherwise valid. Knowing your coverage helps you argue against such tactics.

4. Stay Persistent, Even When They Delay

If your insurer is slow to respond or repeatedly asks for unnecessary paperwork, don’t give up. These are classic bad-faith moves designed to wear you down. Keep communication records—emails, phone call logs, etc.—to demonstrate your compliance and persistence.

Delays can work to the insurer’s benefit. By documenting their lack of action, you can push back and even build a case for bad faith, should the issue escalate.

How to Spot the Signs of Bad Faith

As you navigate the claim process, keep an eye out for red flags. Insurers often employ tactics designed to frustrate policyholders into settling for less:

1. Unexplained delays

If weeks go by without an update or if your adjuster keeps disappearing, this could be a delay tactic.

2. Repeated requests for more documentation

While it’s normal to submit basic documents, such as proof of loss or receipts, multiple or irrelevant requests might signal bad-faith behavior.

3. Sudden changes in your policy’s interpretation

If your insurer starts interpreting policy terms in ways that seem unfair, unusual, or contradictory—they may be trying to reduce your payout unjustly. 

If you notice these signs, it might be time to bring in outside help.

Why a Public Adjuster Could Be Your Best Ally

During this difficult time, your insurance carrier should be your partner in recovery—but as we’ve discussed, that’s not always the case. A public adjuster works for you, not the insurer, helping to ensure your claim is handled fairly and accurately.

As Joey Cafaro, Senior Desk Adjuster, explains, “After significant damage, policyholders naturally focus on recovery, often overlooking the need to protect themselves, which can lead to underpaid, delayed, or denied claims. Consulting with a public adjuster early on protects their interests from the start. As experts, we thoroughly document all aspects, understand industry cost standards, and navigate policy details that can impact coverage. While policyholders juggle jobs and families, our full-time role is to combat insurance carrier delays, aiming to ensure claims are settled fairly and promptly.”

Leveling the playing field

Insurers have teams of adjusters and lawyers protecting their interests—and you should, too. A public adjuster is your advocate, ensuring your claim is not undervalued or unjustly delayed.

Expert knowledge of insurance

With a public adjuster on your side, you can rely on their knowledge of the industry, understanding of bad faith tactics, and ability to fight for the settlement you deserve.

The road to recovery after Hurricane Helene is long and uncertain. Filing an insurance claim during such a chaotic time can feel overwhelming. However, understanding the possibility of bad-faith tactics will help protect you. Keep track of your documents, stay persistent, and never hesitate to ask for help from a public adjuster if you feel your insurer isn’t acting in your best interest.

Bad faith tactics shouldn’t stand in the way of rebuilding your life. If you’re still waiting for your claim to process, or if your insurer hasn’t provided the assistance they promised, remember—you have the right to fight back.

Contact Premier Claims today to set your claim up for success!

60 Minutes: Key Takeaways from “After the Hurricane” report

60 Minutes:
Key Takeaways from “After the Hurricane” report

The Devastation of Hurricane Helene: Lessons from the Past

In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s unprecedented destruction, thousands of homeowners are not just picking up the pieces of their lives—they’re bracing for a new kind of storm: the battle with their insurance carriers. While families are still reeling from the devastation, a darker, more troubling reality is unfolding. Will their insurance policies—the safety nets they’ve invested in for years—come through when they need them most?

If history is any indication, the answer might leave you unsettled. CBS’s recent 60 Minutes exposé on Hurricane Ian revealed how insurance carriers systematically underpaid or outright denied policyholders. They altered damage assessments to reduce payouts. With Hurricane Helene’s damage mirroring, if not exceeding, Ian’s, homeowners must now confront the possibility that they, too, could face the same unfair treatment.

As you begin the recovery process, it’s crucial to know how to protect yourself from an industry that may prioritize profits over people.

What Happened After Hurricane Ian?

According to the episode, many policyholders found that their damage reports were mysteriously altered, underestimating the destruction to their properties. As the whistleblowers interviewed in the episode noted, insurance carriers deployed tactics that included modifying damage estimates—sometimes drastically—to minimize the compensation owed to homeowners. A contractor featured in the episode shared, “The damage was clear, but what wasn’t clear was why the estimates didn’t match reality anymore.”

The Harsh Reality of Insurance Payouts Post-Hurricane

As evidenced in the 60 Minutes episode, policyholders from Hurricane Ian are still battling their insurance carriers for the compensation they were promised. These delays and reductions in payouts can be financially crippling at a time when people need help the most. 

The question on everyone’s mind now is: Could this happen again with Hurricane Helene? Unfortunately, the current insurance climate suggests that it’s not just a possibility, but a strong likelihood.

How You Can Protect Yourself

Given the current landscape, there are several things policyholders should keep in mind when navigating the claims process after Hurricane Helene:

  1. Document Everything: Take extensive photos and videos of all damage before making any repairs. Your documentation will serve as evidence if your claim is disputed or reduced.
  2. Get an Independent Assessment: Hiring a public adjuster to assess the damage and provide an objective estimate may be worthwhile. This can safeguard you against any lowball offers or claims modifications. Contact our experienced team today to have your property inspected.
  3. Don’t Settle Too Soon: As we reflect on our experience with policyholders during Hurricane Ian, it’s important for policyholders to feel empowered to review every offer they receive from their carrier. Levi Warren, our Adjusting Manager, advises, “The most common mistake I see is accepting a final award too quickly. With all the emotions involved in your claim, it’s easy to want to rush through the claim process to make yourself whole again. Be sure to take your time and review the estimate you receive from your carrier to make sure nothing is missing.”
  4. Seek Professional Help: Public adjusters, like those at Premier Claims, can fight on your behalf to negotiate with your carrier. They understand the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts and can help hold them accountable, aiming to take the stress off your plate.

Hurricane Helene: Prepare for a Fight

As we watch Hurricane Helene’s devastation unfold, property owners must brace themselves for the physical recovery and the potential financial battle ahead. In many cases, it’s not about how much damage was done but how much insurers are willing to acknowledge.

We encourage policyholders to stay informed, know their rights, and reach out to professionals when in doubt. The lessons from Hurricane Ian should serve as a grim reminder: proactively know the coverage and rights within your policy so you know when it’s time to defend your claim. 

Premier Claims is Here to Help

At Premier Claims, we advocate for policyholders like you to receive fair compensation from their carriers—making the restoration process as smooth as possible. Our experienced team manages every aspect of your insurance claim, from damage assessment to negotiating with insurers, so you can focus on recovery.

If you’ve been impacted by Hurricane Helene, contact Premier Claims today. You don’t have to go through this alone.

Hurricane Preparedness: Essential Supplies to Weather the Storm

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

  1. 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!
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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.

 

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

Keep in mind— once a hurricane is named, you cannot modify your insurance policy. Taking a proactive approach and reviewing/ updating your coverage before a hurricane approaches is in your best interest.

We have partnered with the Merlin Law Group to provide extra insight into the importance of hurricane coverage. Merlin Law Group has created guides specifically to assist policyholders in preparing for hurricane season. For residential policyholders, they have a Hurricane Checklist with tips on how to protect their property. As well as a Condominium Hurricane Preparedness Guide for multi-family properties.

As industry leaders, we’re committed to supporting you not just as policyholders but as individuals seeking security and recovery after a devastating loss like a hurricane. Premier Claims is here to guide you every step of the way. For a complimentary policy review, fill out our policy review form: https://premier-claims.com/policy-review/

Mitigating Further Damage After a Hurricane

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.

Understanding Water Damage Coverage: A Policyholders Guide

Water damage is one of the most common and potentially devastating issues property owners face. Whether it’s due to a burst pipe, heavy rainfall, or a faulty appliance, water damage can wreak havoc on your property. Understanding your insurance coverage is crucial in such situations. We will delve into the intricate details of water damage coverage, so that you, as a policyholder can be better informed and prepared in the event of water damage.

Types of Water Damage Coverage

Sudden and Accidental Damage

Most standard property insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage. This includes situations like a burst pipe, a malfunctioning appliance, or a sudden leak in the roof. However, coverage might vary based on the specific cause, so it’s essential to understand the policy terms.

Flood Damage

It’s important to note the standard insurance policy typically does not cover flood damage. For protection against floods, a separate flood insurance policy from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is necessary. Furthermore, if you live in a flood-prone area, investing in flood insurance is highly recommended.

Sewer Backup

Sewer backups can cause significant damage to your property. Some insurance policies offer coverage for sewer backups, but it’s often an optional add-on. Check your policy to see if this coverage is included or consider adding it for comprehensive protection.

Understanding Coverage Limits

Even if your policy covers water damage, there are often limitations to the coverage. These limitations may include caps on the total payout, restrictions on certain types of water damage, or higher deductibles for specific causes. It’s crucial to review your policy documents carefully to understand these limitations and assess if additional coverage or policy adjustments are necessary to align with your financial situation & strategy.

Preventing Water Damage

Regular Maintenance

Regularly inspect and maintain your property, checking for signs of leaks, deteriorating pipes, or faulty appliances. Consequently, addressing issues promptly can prevent significant water damage.

Install Proper Drainage Systems

Ensure your property has adequate drainage systems, including gutters, downspouts, and sump pumps. Therefore, proper drainage can redirect water away from your property, reducing the risk of water infiltration.

Educate Tenants

If you rent your property, educate tenants about the importance of reporting leaks promptly. Simultaneously, in your own residence, ensure family members are aware of water-saving practices and how to shut off the main water supply in emergencies.

Being well-informed about your water damage coverage is the first step in protecting your property and assets. Regular policy reviews, understanding coverage limitations, and investing in additional coverage where necessary can provide peace of mind. By taking preventive measures and staying informed, policyholders can minimize the risks associated with water damage and ensure a swift and effective response in case of emergencies. Remember, a well-informed individual can better protect their property. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and safeguard your property against the unexpected challenges of water damage.

Importance of Acting Promptly After a Date of Loss

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:

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:

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

 

When Should I Hire a Public Adjuster?

Understanding when to hire a public adjuster is the first strategic move in your claim process. Every decision plays a role in the pursuit of fair compensation for your property damage. We unravel the layers of timing – from the initial moments of property damage to the complexities of denied claims. 

Timely Claims Assistance

Understanding the Role of a Public Adjuster

Before going into the timing aspects, it’s crucial to comprehend the role of a public adjuster. These professionals act on behalf of policyholders, assessing and negotiating insurance claims aiming to earn a fair compensation for property damage. Their experience in the claims process can make a significant difference in the outcome. 

Immediate Action after Damage Occurs

Swift action is vital when property damage occurs. While policyholders might be tempted to start the claims process independently, involving a public adjuster from the start can streamline the process. A public adjuster’s early involvement aims to make a thorough assessment of the damage, setting the stage for a comprehensive and well-documented claim.

Before Filing a Claim

Policyholders often question when is the right time to bring in a public adjuster. Ideally, it’s before filing a claim. By consulting with a public adjuster beforehand, you benefit from their expertise in evaluating policy coverage, estimating potential damages, and strategizing the most effective approach. This proactive step can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. 

Denied or Underpaid Claims

If your insurance claim has been denied or you feel the compensation offered is inadequate, it’s not too late to hire a public adjuster. These professionals excel in reevaluating claims, identifying discrepancies, and negotiating on behalf of policyholders. Their involvement can lead to a fair resolution and the compensation you rightfully deserve. 

Complex Claims and Policy Understanding

Insurance policies can be intricate, and navigating complex claims requires a deep understanding of the language and nuances within. Hiring a public adjuster becomes crucial when faced with intricate claims, aiming for every detail is thoroughly examined, and your interests are protected. 

Premier Claims encourages policyholders to consider engaging a public adjuster early in the process or, if needed, at any point when challenges arise. Our team stands ready to provide the expertise and guidance necessary for the intricacies of the claims journey. Don’t wait; connect with Premier Claims today for a smoother, more informed claims experience.