Unlocking Opportunities with the Premier Purchase Program

The real estate market is full of opportunities, particularly in commercial sectors, yet navigating it can be complex. If you are an investor looking to buy property, or a broker trying to close a deal swiftly on behalf of your client, the Premier Purchase Program offers a unique and advantageous solution.

What is the Premier Purchase Program?

The Premier Purchase Program is a strategy that involves the current property owner filing a claim on the property with their insurance carrier, then at the close of sale, assigning that claim over to the new property owner. This unique approach creates leverage in the transaction and opens up new possibilities for commercial real estate brokers and investors.

Benefits of the Premier Purchase Program

1. Flexibility in Transactions

The program introduces a level of flexibility that benefits both parties in the real estate deal, making transactions smoother and more attractive. Sellers and their asset team can avoid the complexity of a commercial claim, while offering their property at market value with claim opportunity, making the offering more attractive to buyers. On the other hand, investors considering the purchase of commercial property can request an insurance policy from the seller and an inspection from our team. With an inspection and a policy review from our team, we can advise if there is a claim opportunity that could be transferred to the buyer at close.

2. Leverage in Negotiations

Through this innovative method, leverage is created that can assist in selling a property more quickly. This can be especially valuable in competitive markets that are more prone to significant weather events, such as hail or wind, that can cause property damage. For commercial brokers providing an offering memorandum to the market, our team can provide a thorough inspection of the property, a full-review of the insurance policy and summarize a comprehensive damage estimate, the potential claim settlement and our recommendations to be included in the offering for potential buyers.

3. Smooth and Efficient Process

The Premier Purchase Program is distinguished by our team’s comprehensive claim management and guidance through each step. Offering the seller and brokers the ability to enhance the asset’s appeal through asset repair & restoration for the buyer without the significant financial obligation. For the buyer, this means acquiring a property that will be restored that improves the value of the asset. By providing expertise and fostering collaboration, our team simplifies and enhances the complex process of commercial real estate insurance claims for all parties involved prior to listing the asset, while under contract, and after the sale is finalized.

4. Avoiding Hassles with Claims

The Premier Purchase Program streamlines claims by handling all offering, inspection, and documentation needs for the seller and their broker. Our team ensures that every detail is attended to, removing potential obstacles from the process. For buyers, we don’t just facilitate the transaction; we provide expert guidance and meticulous coordination to restore and enhance the property’s value. In essence, we alleviate challenges, turning complexities into smooth, value-added experiences for both parties.

5. Enhanced Value through Claims 

Commercial investors often seek properties that align with their investment goals, focusing on factors such as location, growth potential, return on investment, occupancy rates, and the ability to enhance value through improvements or management strategies. With the Premier Purchase Program, our team provides essential insights and can serve as valuable selling points, adding to the property’s appeal and potentially increasing its market value after closing through restoration and repairs for minimal financial obligations.

6. Increased Opportunities for Investors and Sellers

The program opens up new avenues for both investors and sellers, providing unique ways to approach transactions and realize potential value. The Premier Purchase Program adds an additional parameter to determine an asset’s market value, and provides peace of mind with our expert guidance & representation throughout the process.

Navigating the Premier Purchase Program: Our Process Explained

The Premier Purchase Program is a meticulously designed solution for commercial real estate transactions involving properties with potential storm or other damage. Through this program, Premier Claims expertly navigates all stages of the process, providing full policy review, property inspection, and coordination between sellers and buyers. Our seamless approach contributes to a value-added, transparent, and smooth transition of the asset, all while aligning with the goals of both parties. Here’s how we make it happen:

1. Policy Review and Property Inspection

Premier Claims conducts a comprehensive review of the seller’s insurance policy for the asset and carries out an in-depth inspection to accurately assess the property’s condition.

2. Agreement Execution with Claim Covenant

Once damage is identified and a buyer is secured, claim covenant language is integrated into the purchase agreement, which both parties agree to execute.

3. Filing the Insurance Claim

Premier Claims initiates an insurance claim based on the detailed findings. This critical step is completed before the closing of the asset.

4. Assignment of Claim Benefits

During closing, the seller formally assigns the claim benefits to the buyer, facilitating a seamless transfer of claim benefits.

5. Joint Inspection with Insurance Carrier

Our skilled team collaborates with the seller’s insurance carrier, conducting a joint on-site inspection to present our findings, promoting alignment and validation.

6. Final Settlement and Fund Transfer

Upon reaching a final claim settlement, the funds are released and transferred to the buyer. They then have full discretion to use these funds for the restoration and repair of the asset, enhancing its value and potential.

The Premier Purchase Program is more than just a transaction method; it’s a comprehensive service where our team takes charge of handling every aspect of the process. We work closely with both the seller and the buyer, as well as the real estate agents involved, guiding them through each step.By fostering collaboration and providing expertise at every stage, our team turns the complex process of buying and selling commercial real estate into a smooth and rewarding experience for all parties involved. If you’d like to learn more about this program, we encourage you to reach out to our team today.

 

Water Damage: Categories & Classes

When dealing with water damage, it’s crucial to understand the severity and potential risks involved. Water loss is classified by contamination level. Its class denotes damage extent and evaporation rate. As your trusted public adjusters, we provide crucial information about water loss categories and classes, guiding you through challenges.

Water Loss Categories:

Category 1:

Category 1 water loss is considered the least severe, as it originates from a sanitary water source with minimal health risks if ingested or inhaled. Common examples include broken water supply lines, sink or tub overflows with no contaminants, melting ice, and broken toilet tanks.

Category 2:

Category 2 water loss involves water with contamination, posing a potential risk of illness upon contact or consumption. This type of water may harbor unsafe levels of microorganisms, nutrients, and organic or inorganic matter. For instance, overflows from washing machines, discharge from dishwashers, or toilet bowl overflows can fall into this category.

Category 3:

The most severe category, category 3 water loss, contains highly contaminated water with pathogenic, toxigenic, or harmful agents, such as sewage or floodwater from external sources. It can be caused by events like tropical storms or weather-related disasters.

Water Loss Classes:

Class 1:

As for Class 1 water losses, they impact a limited part of a room or area, or involve larger spaces with minimal moisture absorption. Moreover, this class presents the least amount of water, absorption, and evaporation.

Class 2:

Category 2 water loss, also known as gray water, involves water containing contamination, posing potential health risks. It may harbor unsafe levels of microorganisms, nutrients, and organic or inorganic matter. Examples of this type include overflows from washing machines, discharge from dishwashers or washing machines, and overflows from toilet bowls.

Class 3:

In a class 3 water loss, water may have come from overhead, resulting in saturated ceilings, walls, carpets, insulation, and sub-flooring throughout the entire area. Consequently, this class involves the greatest amount of water.

Class 4:

Class 4 water losses occur when materials with low permeance porosity, such as hardwood, plaster, brick, and concrete, are affected. These cases often have deep pockets of saturation, necessitating longer drying times and specialized methods.

Jimmy Marlow from Action News Jax reported in Jacksonville, Florida that “Regency Square Mall, once a bustling retail destination in the 90s and early 2000s, has now fallen into a state of disrepair. The mall’s roof has caved in, leading to extensive water damage and the spread of mold, raising concerns for both tenants and the local community.” Being proactive when it comes to water damage is imperative. Understanding the categories and classes of water loss is essential for assessing the severity of damage and implementing the appropriate recovery measures. As your premier public adjusting firm, we are here to support you through the challenges of water damage, providing expert guidance and compassionate assistance every step of the way. Together, we’ll navigate the complexities of water loss and ensure we restore your property to its fullest potential.

 

Differences of Tornadoes and Downbursts

In the grand theater of meteorological events, two powerful weather phenomena play starring roles: tornadoes and downbursts. Though they both may seem like formidable players causing extensive damage, they are distinct in their formation, the type of winds they produce, and the nature of destruction they cause. This blog will dive into the world of tornadoes and downbursts, with special emphasis on macrobursts and microbursts, and will guide you on how to ensure your property is adequately covered by insurance for such events.

Tornadoes vs. Downbursts: The Basics

Tornado Formation and Wind Type

According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Severe Storms Laboratory (NOAA NSSL), “A tornado is a narrow, violently rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground.” The formation of a tornado, also known as tornadogenesis, is a complex process that involves varying wind speeds and directions, change in wind speed and direction with altitude (wind shear), high humidity, and instability in the lower atmosphere.

Tornadoes produce what is known as rotational winds. These are winds that move in a circular pattern around a center point, much like water going down a drain.

Downburst Formation and Wind Type

On the other hand, a downburst is a strong downward current of air from a thunderstorm that hits the ground and spreads out in all directions. There are two types of downbursts: macrobursts and microbursts. A macroburst is a powerful storm with a diameter exceeding 2.5 miles, lasting 5 to 30 minutes. In contrast, a microburst is more concentrated, affecting an area under 2.5 miles wide, lasting around 5 minutes.

Unlike tornadoes, downbursts produce straight-line winds. These winds flow in a more uniform direction, spreading radially once they hit the ground.

The Devastation: Tornado vs. Downburst Damage

The type of wind involved greatly influences the pattern of damage that these events cause. Tornado damage is often identifiable by a distinct path of destruction due to its rotational winds, leaving damage in a somewhat narrow and long trail.

In contrast, the damage from a downburst is typically more “divergent” due to the straight-line winds. The destruction radiates outwards from a central point where the wind initially strikes the ground, often creating a radial or fan-shaped pattern of damage.

Insurance Claims: Navigating the Storm After the Storm

The aftermath of these severe weather events often leads to significant property loss, making insurance claims a necessary, albeit daunting, process. Here are key factors to consider when dealing with insurance for tornado and downburst damages.

Coverage for Tornado Damage

Standard homeowners’ insurance policies typically cover tornado damage. It usually falls under the “windstorm” or “hail” peril covered in your policy. However, it’s essential to review your policy’s specific terms and limits.

In the event of a tornado, you’ll want to document all damage extensively, take photographs, and compile a detailed inventory of damaged items. This information will support your claim.

Coverage for Downburst Damage

Damage from downbursts, including both macrobursts and microbursts, is generally covered under the wind damage provision of your homeowners’ insurance policy. As with tornadoes, it’s crucial to document all damage thoroughly, providing your insurance company with a detailed account of the loss.

Getting Adequate Coverage

While basic homeowners’ insurance usually covers tornado and downburst damages, there are certain scenarios where additional coverage may be needed. For instance, if you live in a tornado-prone area, consider getting a separate, specific tornado insurance policy.

Your standard policy might not cover damage due to flooding following a downburst or a tornado. So, consider adding a flood insurance policy to your existing coverage. Additionally, ensure your policy includes a provision for living expenses in case your home becomes uninhabitable due to storm damage.

Conclusion

Tornadoes and downbursts, including macrobursts and microbursts, are powerful weather phenomena with distinct formations, wind types, and patterns of damage. Securing proper insurance for these situations brings peace of mind amid unpredictable weather. Regularly assess your policies for the right coverage and disaster-response know-how.

 

Commercial Property Insurance Endorsements

Navigating through endorsements in commercial property insurance can feel like a daunting task. But these critical elements of your insurance policy can significantly shape the protection afforded to your business. In this guide, we’ll delve into what endorsements are, breaking them down into types and sorting them to help you understand their effect on your policy. Whether you’re an experienced business owner or just starting out, this information holds the key to protecting your assets.

What Are Property Insurance Endorsements?

An endorsement alters an insurance policy’s standard terms and conditions. By adding, deleting, modifying, or clarifying coverage, it creates a tailor-made policy for the policyholder. Let’s explore different types of endorsements, focusing on how they may or may not favor you as a policyholder.

Endorsements That Favor the Policyholder:

    1. Additional Coverage Endorsement: This endorsement extends protection to risks not originally covered in the policy. It can be vital for businesses with unique or specific risks that aren’t included in standard coverage. By tailoring the policy to the business’s exact needs, it ensures that unexpected incidents won’t leave the business vulnerable.
    2. Broad Form Property Damage Endorsement: Enhancing property damage coverage, this endorsement provides more comprehensive protection against a wider range of property damage. It’s particularly useful for businesses with various properties or valuable assets. Knowing that a broader set of damages is covered can provide peace of mind and financial security.
    3. Waiver of Subrogation: This endorsement protects the policyholder by waiving the insurance carrier’s right to recover claims from third parties. It often facilitates business relationships by eliminating potential conflicts over liability and claim recovery. Having this waiver can simplify agreements with contractors, suppliers, or partners.
    4. Debris Removal Endorsement: Covering the costs for debris clean-up after an insured loss, this endorsement ensures that you won’t face unexpected out-of-pocket expenses following a disaster. It is particularly beneficial for properties that may be at risk of events leading to significant debris, such as a hurricane. Removing debris can be costly and time-consuming, and this endorsement takes that burden off the policyholder.
    5. Business Interruption Endorsement: This endorsement protects against lost income during temporary closures caused by covered events. It can cover not only the lost revenue but also the ongoing operating expenses, helping businesses stay afloat during challenging times. Every business faces potential interruptions, and this endorsement offers a valuable safety net. Learn more about business interruption claims here.

Endorsements That May Not Favor the Policyholder:

    1. Exclusion Endorsements: These endorsements outline specific risks that are not included in your policy. They may limit the coverage considerably based on the business’s location, operations, or other factors. Understanding what is excluded is crucial to avoid gaps in protection and unexpected claim denials.
    2. Deductible Endorsement: Increasing the deductible, this endorsement raises the out-of-pocket costs before coverage kicks in. While it might lower the premium, it means potentially higher expenses at the time of a claim. Assessing the affordability of the deductible in case of loss is essential when considering this endorsement.
    3. Contamination Exclusion: Limiting coverage for contamination-related losses, this endorsement can be a significant drawback for businesses handling chemicals or waste materials. It can leave a company exposed to substantial financial risks if contamination occurs. Understanding and mitigating this exclusion is essential for relevant industries.
    4. Nuclear Incident Exclusion: This exclusion denies coverage for damages resulting from nuclear incidents. While it might seem irrelevant for most businesses, those near nuclear facilities or involved in certain industries must be aware of this limitation. Considering alternative risk management strategies might be necessary.
    5. Terrorism Exclusion: Excluding coverage for terrorism-related damages, this endorsement may be significant for businesses in high-risk areas or industries. It’s essential to understand how this exclusion is defined within the policy and to consider whether additional terrorism coverage is necessary.
    6. Cosmetic Exclusion: Excluding coverage for cosmetic damages that does not affect functionality, this endorsement may lead to denied claims for superficial damages. For businesses where appearance is vital, such as retail or hospitality, understanding this exclusion’s impact is crucial.
    7. ACV Roof Endorsement: Providing Actual Cash Value (ACV) for the roof, this endorsement considers depreciation, which may lead to lower claim payouts. It could result in significant out-of-pocket costs if the roof needs replacement. Businesses must weigh this endorsement’s cost-saving benefits against potential future expenses. Learn more about RCV vs ACV policies here.

Clarifying Endorsements:

Some endorsements neither add nor subtract coverage but provide further clarification. These are essential for avoiding misunderstandings between the insurer and the insured. By defining terms, conditions, or procedures more explicitly, they reduce ambiguity and foster a clearer understanding of the policy.

The Importance of Knowing Your Endorsements:

Understanding the endorsements on your policy is crucial, especially when it comes to filing a claim. They define what is and isn’t covered and at what value. Ignorance of an exclusion or limitation can lead to unpleasant surprises during the claim process. For example, a Cosmetic Exclusion means that any claim for superficial damages that does not directly impact the property’s function might be denied. An ACV Roof Endorsement considers the roof’s age and wear, which could significantly reduce the amount you receive in a claim. Knowing these details helps you manage risks and provides for a smoother claim process.

Commercial property insurance endorsements are a varied aspect of your coverage. From those that favor the policyholder to those that may limit coverage, and even those that simply clarify terms, understanding endorsements is key to fully grasping your insurance protection. Moreover, recognizing the aspects of each endorsement can help you file claims with confidence and navigate the complex world of commercial insurance with ease. Partnering with an insurance professional ensures your policy’s endorsements align with your business’s unique risks and needs, creating robust and responsive coverage.

 

Understanding Recoverable Depreciation: RCV and ACV Policies Explained

Understanding your insurance policy can be daunting, especially when faced with complex terms like “recoverable depreciation.” For numerous policyholders, this idea might seem unfamiliar. Yet, it’s crucial for both Replacement Cost Value (RCV) and Actual Cash Value (ACV) policies. In this guide, we’ll cover recoverable depreciation, differentiate RCV from ACV, clarify payment timing for recoverable depreciation, and share key info every policyholder should grasp about it.

 

What is Recoverable Depreciation?

This term is often overlooked but vital in the insurance claim process. To fully understand this concept, let’s break down what it entails: Recoverable Depreciation refers to the difference between the Replacement Cost Value and the Actual Cash Value of a damaged item. The policyholder can “recover” the insurance carrier’s withheld amount after documenting repairs. Certain policies don’t pay non-recoverable depreciation to the policyholder. Understanding whether your policy includes recoverable or non-recoverable depreciation is vital when filing a claim.

Calculating Recoverable Depreciation

Understanding how to calculate Recoverable Depreciation can help policyholders gain insight into the amount they can reclaim.

    1. Determine the Replacement Cost Value (RCV): This is the total cost to replace or restore the damage with similar quality and type. A licensed and experienced public adjuster, estimator or contractor are all professionals that can determine the replacement cost value of damage to your property based on current costs of labor and materials.
    2. Find the Recoverable Depreciation: The Recoverable Depreciation is the difference between the RCV and ACV. Traditionally, depreciation is calculated based on the item or the product’s useful life. For example, say you purchase a washer & dryer for $2,100 with an estimated useful life of 15 years. By dividing the total cost at the time of purchase ($2,100) by the estimated lifespan (15 years), it would determine the washer & dryer to depreciate by $140 each year. Therefore, if after 5 years the laundry units ACV would be $1,400 (5 years x $140 = $700 in depreciation over 5 years. The initial purchase price $2,100 minus the $700 in depreciation = $1,400). However, this is just a very general example. When it comes to property damage and filing an insurance claim, each insurance carrier, circumstance and loss are unique and the calculation of depreciation may vary.
    3. Calculate the Actual Cash Value (ACV): This involves determining the RCV and then subtracting the depreciation based on age, wear and tear, or other factors. Thus, Actual Cash Value (ACV) = Replacement Cost Value (RCV) – Depreciation.

Impact of Inflation

Inflation is an often-overlooked factor that can significantly impact Recoverable Depreciation. As the general price level of goods and services rises over time, the cost of replacing or repairing damaged property can also increase. This inflationary effect results in the Replacement Cost Value (RCV) of an item being potentially higher today than when the policy was purchased or just a few years ago. Therefore, if we calculate Recoverable Depreciation using outdated cost estimates, it might not accurately represent today’s market’s actual replacement cost. Policyholders should be aware of this dynamic and consider working with insurance professionals who actively monitor inflation trends and update valuations accordingly. Understanding and accounting for inflation in the calculation of Recoverable Depreciation ensures a more accurate and fair settlement, aligning the claim payout with the real-world costs of repair or replacement.

 

RCV vs. ACV: What’s the Difference?

Replacement Cost Value (RCV)

Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policies cover the cost to replace damaged or lost property without deducting depreciation. In other words, if an item is destroyed, the insurance company pays the cost to replace it with a brand-new item of like kind and quality.

Actual Cash Value (ACV)

Actual Cash Value (ACV) policies, on the other hand, take into account depreciation. The insurance company will pay for the cost to replace the item, minus a deduction for the wear and tear or aging of the item. Essentially, ACV pays for what the item was worth at the time of the loss.

When does the policyholder receive payment for recoverable depreciation?

Initial Payout

After a claim is approved, the insurance carrier usually pays the ACV first, holding back the recoverable depreciation.

Final Payout

Insurance companies generally pay recoverable depreciation after completing repairs or replacements and providing proper documentation.

Factors Affecting Payment

How to Claim Recoverable Depreciation

Policyholders with a Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policy must actively reclaim recoverable depreciation. This process involves carefully following a series of coordinated steps to ensure they receive the full entitled amount. This process is not just about understanding the numbers but also knowing how to navigate the insurance claim procedures and documentation requirements. Below are the general steps to reclaim recoverable depreciation; however, if you’re unsure of the requirements within your policy to reclaim recoverable depreciation, get your policy reviewed by our team of legal experts.

    1. Complete Repairs: Work with a licensed contractor to ensure quality repairs.
    2. Submit Documentation: Provide invoices and other necessary documents to your insurance company.
    3. Follow Up: Regularly check with the insurance carrier to ensure the process is on track.
    4. Consult Professionals if Needed: If issues arise, consider seeking professional help.

The Importance of Recoverable Depreciation for Policyholders and Insurance Carriers

Recoverable depreciation is more than just an insurance term; it’s a critical component that directly impacts a policyholder’s claim payout. Understanding this aspect is crucial for policyholders, ensuring a fair settlement that matches repair or replacement costs. Meanwhile, insurance carriers employ recoverable depreciation to align claim payments with real-world expenses and prevent overpayment.

Why it Matters to Policyholders

Why Insurance Carriers Use it

Common Misconceptions

 

Recoverable depreciation is more than just an insurance jargon; it’s an essential part of many insurance policies that can have significant financial implications. Whether you hold an RCV or ACV policy, comprehending the operation of recoverable depreciation and its payment timing can empower you to navigate the intricate insurance landscape with confidence. Gaining awareness enables you to make well-informed choices tailored to your unique circumstances and to secure the entitlements you deserve.Always consult with an insurance professional to understand your unique circumstances fully.

 

Spot Repairs Initially Approved for Historic Building: Restored with $1.3M Settlement

Rivermont Collegiate

Bettendorf, Iowa
Hail & Water Damage
May 2021


Nearly a year after a devastating hail storm, the building began to show alarming signs of water damage through the roof. Although still within the timeframe to file a claim, the insurance carrier was resistant, approving only minimal spot repairs that fell below the deductible amount. To counter this, we enlisted experts from the tile company to provide irrefutable forensic evidence, confirming that the damage occurred within the claim window. Moreover, our team successfully negotiated for a complete roof replacement, ensuring the historic building was restored while preserving its invaluable significance.


Insurance Carrier Offer: Only Spot Repairs

Premier Claims Settlement: $1,264,000

 

 

Insurance Carrier Denial Turned into a $1.16M Final Settlement

Confidential Religious Center

Orlando, Florida
Hail Damage
April 2021


From the start, our team uncovered undeniable evidence of hail damage to the 1,020-square metal roof. In an attempt to stall the process, the insurance carrier issued a ‘reservation of rights’ letter, suggesting the claim might not be sufficiently covered by the policy. They also sent an engineer and their own adjuster for further evaluation. To counter this delay tactic, we conducted a thorough legal review of the policy to confirm coverage and compiled a comprehensive estimate based on our investigations. Despite an ACV policy with endorsements, we successfully negotiated a final settlement of $1,162,000 for a complete roof replacement. After the settlement, and considering the property’s age, we advised the policyholder on upgrading to an RCV policy for more comprehensive future coverage.


Insurance Carrier Offer: Stated No Coverage Available

Premier Claims Settlement: $1,162,000

 

 

From Only Minor Spot Repairs Approved to $912k Settlement

Deshler Public Schools 

Deshler, Nebraska
Hail Damage
April 2021


At first, the insurance carrier approved only minor spot repairs for the flat part of the roof, amounting to a mere $993. The policyholder felt this was insufficient and reached out to us for assistance. Upon investigating, we discovered hail damage on the flat portion of the roof from an earlier date, as well as a separate incident that accounted for the damage to the metal portion of the roof. Armer with this new evidence, we filed two distinct claims. The result? A staggering final settlement of $912,000 for the policyholder.


Insurance Carrier Offer: Spot Repairs Totaling $993

Premier Claims Settlement: $912,000

 

 

 

Overturned Insurance Carrier’s Decision in Less Than 4 Months with 7,664% Increase in Settlement

DC Warehouse

Marshalltown, Iowa
Hail, Wind & Water Damage
August 2020


In August 2020, a derecho—a fast-moving cluster of severe thunderstorms capable of tornadic winds, heavy rains, and flash floods—devastated the Midwest. Despite the extensive damage to the building, the insurance carrier was offering a significantly underpaid settlement. That’s when our team stepped in to champion the policyholder’s cause. In less than 4 months, we successfully overturned the insurance carrier’s initial decision, securing a 7,664% increase in settlement that fully restored the building. Furthermore, we advised the policyholder on how to enhance their insurance plan to better safeguard against future incidents. 


Insurance Carrier Offer: $14,000

Premier Claims Settlement: $1,087,000