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.

What to Do After Fire Damage?

Fire Damage can be devastating, and we are committed to providing expert guidance and support, ensuring you have the knowledge and resources to navigate through the challenges of fire damage and restore your peace of mind.

Explore our curated series covering every facet of fire damage. Our expert Fire Checklist ensures your preparedness!

After fire damage checklist

To learn more about navigating fire damage, check out the following articles:

Navigating Fire Damage: Proactive Protection

Navigating Fire Damage: After the Damage Occurs

Navigating Fire Damage: Recovering Contents

Winter brings its own set of challenges, and one particularly troublesome issue for property owners is the formation of ice dams. While they may seem innocuous at first, ice dams can lead to significant hidden damages if not addressed promptly. In this guide, Premier Claims sheds light on the causes of ice dams, the potential damages they can cause, and actionable tips to protect your property.

Causes of Ice Dams

Understanding the Culprits

Ice dams typically form when warm air from the interior of a building escapes into the attic, causing the underside of the roof to warm. This warmth, in turn, causes snow on the roof to melt. When the melted snow reaches the colder eaves, it refreezes, creating a dam. Subsequent melting snow can then pool behind this dam, potentially seeping into the property.

Hidden Damages

Roof Damage

The repeated freezing and thawing of water can compromise the integrity of your roof. Over time, this may result in leaks, structural damage, and the need for extensive repairs.

Attic and Insulation Issues

Ice dams can lead to water infiltration into the attic, damaging insulation and promoting mold growth. This can affect the overall energy efficiency of your property.

Interior Water Damage

Seeping water can find its way into the interior of your property, causing damage to ceilings, walls, and even valuable belongings.

Protecting Yourself from Ice Dams

Adequate Insulation

Ensure your attic is properly insulated to minimize heat transfer from the interior. This helps maintain a consistent roof temperature, preventing snowmelt and ice dam formation.

Ventilation Solutions

Proper attic ventilation promotes temperature disruption on the roof, reducing the likelihood of ice dam formation. Consult with roofing professionals to assess and improve your property’s ventilation.

Regular Roof Maintenance

Keep your roof in top condition by removing snow promptly after storms. Use roof rakes or hire professionals to prevent excessive snow buildup, lowering the risk of ice dam formation.

Professional Inspection

Schedule regular inspections to identify and address potential issues before they escalate. Swift intervention can save from costly repairs in the long run.

Understanding the causes and hidden damages of ice dams empowers property owners to take proactive measures. By implementing these tips and staying vigilant, you can safeguard your property from the detrimental effects of ice dams. If you ever encounter damages, our experienced team is ready to guide you through the claims process with professionalism and care. Don’t compromise your peace of mind; take action today.

Remember, for any property damage concerns, Premier Claims is your trusted partner, offering industry-leading guidance and support.

Recovering Contents from Fire Damage

Our team understands that after a fire, the loss extends beyond just the structure—it reaches every item that makes a space feel like home or a business function seamlessly. We aid in creating a detailed content inventory of all affected items, ensuring nothing is overlooked. With this comprehensive list in hand, we then provide a rigorous evaluation to insurance carriers. This allows us to advocate for our clients to obtain full reimbursement for each content item. Our commitment is to secure recovery, not just from the structural loss, but from the personal and operational disruptions the fire may have caused.

Creating Content Inventory

Most homeowners or business owners haven’t prepared a detailed inventory of their possessions before experiencing a substantial loss — and that’s perfectly understandable. Our team excels in employing innovative methods to assist in assembling a thorough inventory. Below are some strategies and suggestions we offer our clients following a major fire incident:

- - Retain damaged items, or parts of them, until our team can conduct a complete inspection and documentation.
  - Review any past photographs or videos from your property; they might showcase valuable content present at the time of the loss.
  - Schedule a session to discuss the contents of each room and area of your property with your assigned client specialist. As you recall items, our team handles the documentation.
  - We help in retrieving purchase records from vendors and establishments where you’ve bought items.

Replacing Vital Documents

While our team is committed to assisting with a wide range of post-loss concerns, we cannot directly help in replacing personal identification and essential documents. However, we are more than happy to guide you in the right direction to secure replacements. Below is a handy list detailing where you can obtain replacements for various vital documents:

Vital documents	Where to get a replacement
Drivers License or State Id	Local Department of Motor Vehicles
Government Id	Locate your nearest Real-Time Automated Personnel Identification System (RAPIDS) site
Military Discharge Papers	Department of Veterans Affairs 1-800-827-1000
Passports	State Department—Passport Services 1-202-955-0430
Birth, Death, and Marriage Certificates	Appropriate State Bureau of Records
Social Security or Medicare Cards	Local Social Security Office 1-800-772-1213
Credit Cards	Mastercard & Visa: Contact the issuing financial institution American Express: 1-800-441-0519 Discover: 1-800-DISCOVER (1-800-347-2683)
Titles to Deeds	Records department of the area/county in which the property is located
Stocks and Bonds	Issuing company or your broker
Wills	Attorney or probate court where the will was filed
Income Tax Records	Internal Revenue Services (IRS): 1-800-829-1040 Accountant
Citizenship Papers	Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services: 1-800-375-5283
Mortgage Papers	Lending Institution

Cleaning & Removing Smoke Odor

Assistance might be available to help clean and eliminate smoke odors from items affected by the fire. This depends on the specifics of your insurance policy and the capabilities of your mitigation service provider. To make things easier for you, we’ve shared a few helpful hints to support the cleanup procedure when recovering contents from fire damage:

- - Follow the health guidance from first responders to the fire and mitigation team on the safe cleanup of fire ash, protective clothing and use of masks.
  - People often use a cleaning agent containing tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) to reduce odors in fabrics. You can find it under its generic name or specific brand names, available in different formats such as sprays, liquids, or powders. We recommend reading the label for further information and safety instructions, as well as testing any garments or fabrics prior to utilizing.
  - Clean kitchenware or appliances with soap and water, rinse, and then polish them.

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. If you have any questions or concerns regarding property inspections, claims management, or insurance policies, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We are here to educate, guide, and provide peace of mind to policyholders across the nation.

In the complex landscape of insurance, property owners are discovering a powerful way to reduce premiums without sacrificing coverage: by reviewing their insurance policies. Discover the essential strategies empowering property owners to understand their policy coverage as we explore the intricacies of 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!

Is Involving Legal Professionals Necessary for Your Insurance Claim?

While the optimism of seeing the world through rose-colored glasses may suggest otherwise, the complexities of insurance claims can make legal assistance invaluable. Discover why having someone advocate for your best interests is crucial in the modern insurance landscape, where carriers aim to protect every cent.

Public adjusters typically handle claim advocacy effectively, rendering attorney involvement unnecessary. However, there are scenarios where legal assistance becomes vital:

Coverage Denial and Refusal to Negotiate

In instances where insurance coverage is denied or negotiations are refused, consider involving legal professionals. Legal professionals work to challenge denials, advocating for policyholders’ right to secure the coverage they’re entitled to. Legal professionals can also engage in negotiations with insurance carriers, striving for a settlement that is fair and reasonable.

Policy Interpretation Issues

Insurance policies often involve intricate language open to interpretation. Legal assistance becomes essential when disputes arise over policy terms. Attorneys can provide clarity on policy language, aiming to safeguard the rights of policyholders and that carriers adhere to the agreed-upon terms.

Bad Faith Practices by Insurance Carriers

Bad faith practices occur when an insurance carrier acts dishonestly or unfairly toward a policyholder. This includes unreasonably delaying claims processing, undervaluing claims, or wrongfully denying valid claims. Legal professionals can identify and challenge such practices, holding carriers accountable for acting in good faith and aiming to maintain fair treatment throughout the claims process.

Beyond the situations highlighted above, there are less apparent, yet valid reasons to consider legal counsel. Chip Merlin of Merlin Law Group, discusses one of these less apparent reasons in his blog “Insurance Company Claims Adjuster Bonus Programs and Criteria.” Some carriers may incentivize adjusters to underpay claims, making it crucial to involve legal representation. Legal professionals can file discovery motions to uncover any undisclosed bonuses that may compromise the fairness of claim payouts.

Uncovering these bonus programs may be challenging, as carriers often attempt to disguise them. An attorney, equipped with the expertise to refine discovery requests, can reveal less savory bonus programs. While not every claim requires legal intervention, having an attorney available ensures that, if needed, assistance is just a phone call away.

Explore the nuances of public adjusting claims and understand when legal involvement can make a significant difference in securing a fair and favorable settlement.

By: Ashley Balsbaugh | Associate Attorney

After Damage Occurs

After a fire wreaks havoc on a property, be it residential or commercial, the cascade of emotions can be overwhelming. The gamut of emotions — from shock and disbelief to grief and anger — can be overwhelming. It’s not uncommon for individuals to grapple with memory issues, anxiety, or depression following such a significant loss. In these trying times, your primary focus should be on emotional recovery and the well-being of everyone directly impacted by the loss. Our team steps in to shoulder the burdens of the logistical aftermath, ensuring you can dedicate your energy to healing and rebuilding emotionally.

Document Loss Information

In the aftermath of a fire, it’s essential to record pivotal details related to the incident. Key information includes the exact date of the fire, the non-emergency number for the fire department, the official report number, and the name of the fire marshal or investigator in charge. Having these particulars on hand can be instrumental during the claim process. Refer to our Fire Checklist for a complete list of key information to obtain after a fire loss occurs.

Secure Immediate Assistance

Whether it’s due to structural concerns, smoke contamination, or utility interruptions, the immediate aftermath can make it challenging, if not impossible, to continue daily operations or live comfortably. Securing immediate assistance is crucial, as it facilitates temporary relocations, ensures safety, and lays the groundwork for the recovery process. Taking prompt action helps in minimizing disruptions and ensures a more efficient path to restoration. A great resource for immediate assistance will be your local American Red Cross, as most chapters have a rapid response on getting you food, clothing, medicine, and places to stay.

Track Every Expense: Additional Living Expense Reimbursement

Every receipt matters. Ensure you maintain a record of all expenses incurred due to displacement after a fire loss. Traditionally insurance policies have Additional Living Expense coverage that can be reimbursed. During our review of your policy, we can provide a clear understanding of the limits of this coverage for you.

Engage Premier Claims

In the wake of fire damage, dealing with insurance claims can be a daunting and time-consuming task, diverting attention from crucial recovery needs. By engaging with our team, property owners can prioritize their emotional and physical well-being, and continue with their daily routines. Our team steps in to navigate the claim process, ensuring all aspects are handled professionally and thoroughly. Trust in our expertise, and offload the complexities of claims, allowing you to focus on healing and restoring your peace of mind.

Mitigate Further Damage

Insurance policies typically mandate that policyholders take necessary steps to prevent additional damage. Adhering to this obligation is not only essential for the integrity of the property but also for ensuring compliance with policy terms. Our team offers access to a network of seasoned mitigation professionals who specialize in post-fire cleanup and damage prevention. We actively manage this process, diligently tracking and compiling all associated expenses, aiming to ensure we account for every cost, and facilitating a seamless reimbursement process with the insurance carrier.

As we officially settle into fall it’s time to think about the ways you can prepare your property for winter, because it will be here before you know it. Property owners in the Northern Hemisphere face unique challenges, such as the changing weather patterns, which demand proactive measures to safeguard their property from potential damage. At Premier Claims, we understand the importance of preparation. We’ve combined our experiences with essential insights to create a comprehensive guide tailored for business owners. Ensuring your property’s safety and resilience during winter is not just a necessity; it’s a strategic investment.

Winter Essentials for Commercial Properties

Protect Your Pipes from Freezing

Frozen pipes can lead to costly damage. Maintain a consistent indoor temperature above 55 degrees, even when the building is unoccupied. To ensure that unwanted cold air stays out of your property, regularly inspect your building for cracks or holes in seals. Swift repairs can prevent pipe bursts and potential water damage.

Roof and Gutter Maintenance

Inspect your business roof and gutters for any signs of wear and tear. Clean out leaves and debris from gutters to prevent water buildup, which can lead to roof damage and leaks. Ensure that your roof is free of loose shingles or tiles, as they can be easily dislodged during storms.

HVAC System Checks

As the temperatures drop, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system will be working overtime. Schedule a professional inspection to ensure it’s in optimal condition. Clean or replace filters and clear vents to maintain efficient airflow, reducing the risk of system failures.

Landscaping and Outdoor Features

Trim tree branches and remove dead vegetation around your property. Fall is a good time for pruning, ensuring that heavy branches won’t fall and cause damage during winter storms. Secure outdoor fixtures, signage, and furniture to prevent them from being damaged or becoming hazards in strong winds and snow storms.

Emergency Preparedness

Review and update your emergency preparedness plan. Ensure all employees are aware of evacuation procedures, emergency contacts, and the location of emergency supplies. Regular drills can reinforce safety protocols, ensuring everyone knows what to do in case of severe weather events.

Policy Review

Before winter sets in, it’s crucial to review your property insurance policy. We recommend having your policy reviewed by a professional to confirm your policy adequately protects against winter-related risks like burst pipes or roof collapses due to heavy snow. Proactive coverage provides financial stability, saving you from potential setbacks in the event of property damage. We have a team of seasoned professionals ready to review your policy. Don’t wait, act now to secure your business’s winter readiness.

At Premier Claims, we understand the unique challenges faced by business owners with properties in colder climates. By taking proactive steps to prepare your property for winter, you can enjoy peace of mind throughout the fall and holiday seasons. Stay prepared, protected, and let Premier Claims be your ally in safeguarding your investments.

When Should I Hire a Public Adjuster?