Contractor Estimate vs. Carrier Estimate: Why Both Matter

Why Your Insurance Estimate Isn’t Enough: The Power of a Contractor’s Estimate

You might be thinking: “Why should I bother getting a contractor estimate when my insurance carrier is going to provide me one anyway?” It’s a fair question. After all, your insurance carrier is paying the claim, right? So why not trust their estimate?

Here’s the thing—while the insurance carrier’s estimate is a starting point, it’s not always the most accurate reflection of what your repair costs will actually be. Getting an estimate from a contractor gives you a clearer picture of the actual costs and strengthens your position in negotiations. When you have detailed breakdowns from a professional who will do the repair work, you gain leverage to challenge lowball offers. It’s a strategic move to help put you in control rather than leaving everything up to the insurance carrier.

Estimate:

A detailed list of damages and cost to repair each item. Estimates can be written by Premier Claims, a contractor, or the insurance carrier (and oftentime, all three).

The Carrier Estimate: What Your Insurance Thinks

Your insurance carrier will provide an estimate based on their damage assessment. However, this estimate is often lower than the actual cost of repairs. Keep in mind that your carrier’s primary interest is to payout the least amount possible in a claim—not ensuring you receive every dollar needed for complete restoration. They may rely on outdated pricing models, overlook hidden damage, or apply policy limitations that conveniently reduce the scope of work documented.

The Contractor Estimate: What the Repairs May Cost

Your contractor’s estimate should more accurately reflect the real-time materials, labor, and project scope costs. This estimate is often higher than the carriers because it accounts for actual market rates, code upgrades, and any unforeseen damages that become apparent during repairs.

Why Both Estimates Matter

At Premier Claims, we use the contractor’s estimate as a critical tool in the negotiation process with your insurance carrier. While the carrier’s estimate provides a baseline, it often falls short of covering the full cost of repairs. A contractor’s estimate reflects real-world pricing—accounting for labor, materials, code upgrades, and hidden damages—which helps establish the value of your claim.

Without both the carrier’s and contractor’s perspectives, you might miss out on the full compensation needed to repair your property appropriately. The contractor’s estimate highlights gaps in the insurance carrier’s assessment, aiming for nothing to be overlooked. Having this documented cost of repairs can strengthen your case and increase the likelihood of a fair claim resolution. 

Gather Negotiation Tools

The stronger your evidence, the stronger your case—this is how we push back against lowball offers and fight to ensure you have the funds needed to properly restore your property. Navigating insurance claims can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go it alone.

Premier Claims is here to advocate for you!

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

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

The Devastation of Hurricane Helene & Milton: Lessons from the Past

In the wake of the recent destruction from hurricanes, 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 and Milton’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 & Milton? 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 a Hurricane:

  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 and Milton: Prepare for a Fight

As we watch more hurricane 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 or Milton, contact Premier Claims today. You don’t have to go through this alone.

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Boost The Likelihood Of Insurance Claim Success

To be blunt, insurance claims are often complex, time-consuming, and incredibly frustrating. While they are a necessary evil, they shouldn’t run your life. Paying for a public adjuster might seem counterintuitive, but their expertise can lead to larger settlements, saving you time and navigating the complex claims process more effectively.

The Insurance Carrier’s Priorities

It’s important to understand that, at the end of the day, the insurance carrier may not have your best interest in mind. Their goal is to minimize payouts to protect their bottom line. This can sometimes result in lower settlement offers that do not fully cover your losses. Without an expert on your side, you might find it challenging to receive the compensation you deserve.

Your Advocate in the Claims Process

A public adjuster acts as your advocate during an insurance claim. We are licensed professionals who work exclusively for policyholders, not insurance companies. Our primary goal is to ensure you receive the maximum settlement available. A public adjuster, unlike the insurance adjuster sent by your insurer, commits to fighting for your rights and interests.

Success Tied to Your Outcome

One of the key aspects of working with a public adjuster is the alignment of interests. Generally speaking, we don’t win unless you do. We typically receive a percentage of the claim settlement as our compensation, which motivates us to maximize your payout. This shared interest ensures that we are fully committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your claim.

The fee process may be different depending on the state your property is located. 

Our current win percentage is over 1000% more than the carrier’s first offer. What does that mean exactly? If your carrier offers $10k initially, after we work and negotiate the claim with the carrier, we can release $100k. With that in mind, our fee is going to be barely a dent in the overall winning amount.

Expertise in the Claims Process

We are seasoned in the claims process and work hard to get the client a favorable outcome regarding a payout for related loss and/or damage. The intricacies of insurance policies and claims can be daunting for those unfamiliar with them. Public adjusters have the knowledge and experience to navigate these complexities, identify possible coverages, and attempt to account for all details of the claim thoroughly.

 We’ve seen carriers deny claims by poorly interpreting the policy, offer to pay half the roof when the full roof needs to be replaced, claim the damage was old and is no longer covered, and thousands of other excuses as to why they won’t give the insured what they are owed under the policy. We know the insurance carrier plays a role in the game of insurance claims, and we’re ready to battle.

Identifying Hidden Damages

Property damage isn’t always visible to the untrained eye. Public adjusters have the education and experience to identify hidden damages and additional losses that may not be immediately apparent. This thorough assessment intends to ensure that nothing is overlooked and that you receive compensation for all damages incurred.

Going to Court Without an Attorney

Filing a claim on your own is like going to court without an attorney. Are you prepared to go to court alone? Just as experts recommend hiring a lawyer to represent you in legal battles, hiring a public adjuster to manage your insurance claim offers you professional representation and enhances your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.

Handling an insurance claim on your own might seem like a cost-saving measure initially, but the potential for under-settlement and the stress of dealing with insurance companies can outweigh any perceived savings. By hiring a public adjuster, you ensure that you have a dedicated advocate who will work tirelessly to secure the most compensation offered. Don’t navigate this challenging process alone—partner with Premier Claims and negotiate with experience.

What is a Public Adjuster?

When faced with significant damage to your property, navigating the complex terrain of insurance claims can be overwhelming. That’s where a public adjuster comes into play. What exactly is the role of a public adjuster, and how can they assist you during this stressful time?

Decoding a Public Adjuster’s Role in Your Claim

A public adjuster is an insurance expert you can hire to manage your claim for you. Unlike insurance company adjusters who represent the insurer’s interests, they work exclusively for you. Their primary goal is to ensure you receive every dollar you’re entitled to under your policy.

Role of a Public Adjuster

Damage Assessment

A public adjuster will inspect and assess the damage to your property. Furthermore, they will evaluate the scope of repairs and estimate the replacement value for those repairs.

Policy Understanding

They will help you understand your insurance policy, decipher the legal jargon, and ensure you are aware of what is covered.

Negotiation

Public adjusters communicate with your insurance carrier on your behalf, attempting to negotiate a settlement that accurately reflects the damage and coverage.

Documentation

They document everything you’ve lost and double-check the damage to your property, potentially leading to a larger insurance settlement.

When Should You Consider Hiring a Public Adjuster?

Large or Severe Claims

Public adjusters are particularly valuable for significant claims involving high-value or extensive damage to your property, such as after a fire or a natural disaster.

Claim Disputes

If you are dissatisfied with your insurance carrier’s settlement offer or feel that the claim settlement is too low, they can help dispute the settlement and advocate for a higher payout.

Complex Claims

When you face complex claims involving multiple policies or intricate questions about coverage, a public adjuster’s expertise can be invaluable.

Benefits

Fair Settlements

Public adjusters are skilled negotiators, fighting for your right to a fair and accurate settlement. This can be hard for a policyholder to obtain on their own.

Time Savings

They handle all the paperwork and communication with your insurance carrier, saving your significant time and stress.

Policy Understanding

Additionally, public adjusters help you comprehend your policy details and navigate the often confusing claims process, ensuring you make informed decisions throughout the entire journey.

Reliability

Get Referrals

Seek recommendations from friends, family, or online reviews to find reputable public adjusters in your area.

Check Licenses

Ensure the adjuster holds a license in your state. Most state insurance departments provide online license verification tools.

Research

Look for adjusters affiliated with professional associations like the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters, ensuring adherence to industry standards and ethics.

Read Contracts Carefully

Understand the fees, services, and terms, outlined in the contract before hiring an adjuster.

Remember, hiring a public adjuster can level the playing field between you and your insurance carrier, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve after a disaster. Furthermore, by entrusting the complexities of your insurance claim to a skilled professional, you can focus on rebuilding and regaining peace of mind while your public adjuster advocates for your rightful settlement.

 

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Insurance Carrier Offers Spot Repairs for Condominium: Premier Claims Settled at $2.3M

Legends of St. John Condos

Augustine, Florida
Hail Damage

Prior to our involvement, the insurance carrier was only willing to cover the bare minimum for patchwork repairs on the roof. We conducted a thorough inspection and presented a compelling case to the insurer, complete with evidence to support a more comprehensive settlement. This included code upgrades, material matching, overhead & profit, and residential supervision costs. Initially, the insurance carrier offered a more reasonable estimate of $1,820,000, but later withdrew it, attempting to reduce the settlement. Undeterred, we fortified our claim with exhaustive documentation and expert legal counsel, ultimately securing a final settlement of $2,275,000.

Insurance Carrier Offer: Minimum Patch/ Repairs

Premier Claims Settlement: $2,275,000

 

 

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Condo Association Restored After Hurricane Ian

Confidential Condo Association

Cape Coral, Florida
Hurricane Ian
September 2022

In the wake of Hurricane Ian, this five-building complex suffered from both roof damage and first-floor flooding. Despite the insurance carrier’s attempts to stall the process by repeatedly reassigning the claim, our team remained steadfast. We put together irrefutable estimates that clearly demonstrated that the policy limits had been met. Taking into account the widespread damage, we guided residents through their individual claims and managed the inspections and repairs for each unit. In the end, we achieved full coverage up to the policy limits for every building in the association and extended free consultation services to residents to aid in their recovery.

Insurance Carrier Offer: N/A

Premier Claims Settlement: $1,077,000

 

 

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Large Loss Agriculture Hail Claim Settled in 4 Months

RL Wilson Family Farms

Montgomery, Indiana
Hail Damage
May 2022

Before a claim was even filed, our team stepped in, effectively neutralizing any attempts by the insurance carrier to delay or underpay the claim. We carried out inspections of the property, both day and night, and assembled a comprehensive damage estimate for every asset involved. To speed up the process, we transparently shared all our findings with the insurance carrier, who initially estimated the claim at $1,892,000 based on our information. Not satisfied, we swiftly countered with precise costs for materials and labor, successfully elevating the settlement to an impressive $2,058,000—all in under 4 months.

Insurance Carrier Offer: $1,892,000

Premier Claims Settlement: $2,058,000 in 4 months

 

 

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Thorough Investigation Turns $1.9M into a $5.9M Claim Settlement

Sanoh America Distribution Facility

Archbold, Ohio
Hail & Wind Damage | May 2022

The expansive 223,000 square-foot distribution facility experienced significant hail and wind damage, resulting in a small portion collapse. The insurance carrier enlisted an engineer to refute the more extensive hail damage, dismissing it as merely cosmetic and initially only approved repairs for the collapsed section. At this time, our team was brought on and we began to gather evidence from comprehensive on-site investigations, demonstrating the long-term repercussions of neglecting the full extent of the damage. Within six months, these efforts resulted in a reversal of decision to a full roof replacement. In addition, we were able to show historical storm activity that had impacted the building within the policy terms for more accurate dates of loss, as well as reimbursement for business interruption and loss of contents. Thanks to our diligent efforts, we successfully secured an additional $3.9 million in claim settlements.

Insurance Carrier Offer: $1,985,000

Premier Claims Settlement: $5,893,000

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