Your Decisions Could Cost You

You’ve just discovered extensive damage to your property, and your first instinct is to call your trusted contractor. They’ve always done a great job with repairs, so why not rely on them to handle the insurance claim too? Before you make that decision, consider this: entrusting your claim solely to your contractor could lead to unexpected complications and potentially costly consequences.

The Potential Risk You’re Unaware Of

Did you know that it’s illegal in most states for contractors to represent themselves as public adjusters? This distinction is crucial because, generally, handling insurance claims requires specific licensing and expertise. By relying on an unqualified individual, you’re risking the outcome of your claim and potentially facing legal repercussions. Imagine the added stress of legal battles on top of property damage.

Expertise vs. Qualifications

Sure, your contractor might excel at repairs, but do they have in-depth knowledge of insurance policies and negotiation strategies? Public adjusters undergo extensive training and licensing precisely for these reasons. They know the ins and outs of the insurance claim process, always trying to ensure that your claim is accurately documented. Trusting someone without the right qualifications is like navigating a minefield blindfolded.

The Power of Collaboration

Instead of choosing between your contractor and a public adjuster, why not have both working for you? At Premier Claims, we collaborate closely with your contractor to try to achieve the best outcome for you. Your contractor focuses on restoring your property while our team advocates for your best interests and negotiates with your insurance carrier. This partnership is intended to ensure that every aspect of your claim and restoration process is handled with expertise and care, creating a win-win situation for you.

Take Control of Your Claim

Don’t gamble on your property’s ability to be fully restored. Take control of the situation by contacting Premier Claims today. Our team of licensed public adjusters is here to help you navigate the complex claims process, fight for the best settlement, and restore your peace of mind. Don’t wait until it’s too late- ensure your claim gets the attention it deserves from the people who are qualified to do it.

Who are the players in the intake process?

Think of the claims intake process as one big video game, where the decision maker or policy owner plays the most integral part of the claims game. Throughout your quest for a fair claim payout, you’ll meet some additional key figures or characters to help you along the way.

Player Character or Protagonist: The Policy Owner

The policyholder is the main character. They’re the ones whose name is listed under “Named Insured” in the policy. This person is typically the business or building owner who either knows all of the information needed in connection to the property or knows the best person to ask for help obtaining the necessary information.

Ensure you know the differences between signee, named insured, and claimant. Not sure what they are? We’ve got you covered.

Signee vs. Named Insured

- - Signee: The person who signs any document or contract. They acknowledge and accept the terms of the document.
  - Named Insured: The person or entity specifically named in an insurance policy as the primary policyholder who receives coverage and benefits.

Named Insured vs. Claimant

- - Named Insured: The main policyholder identified in the insurance policy who has the legal rights and responsibilities associated with the policy.
  - Claimant: The person or entity making a claim under the insurance policy, which could be the named insured or another party eligible to claim benefits due to an insured event.

Signee vs. Claimant

- - Signee: The individual who signs the document, which could include contracts, agreements, or forms.
  - Claimant: The individual or entity filing a claim for benefits under an insurance policy, regardless of whether they signed the policy.

The Guide: The Property Manager

The property manager serves as a point of contact for the building’s condition. They may provide essential information about the property and assist with gathering documentation throughout the claims process. Their job is to oversee the property and ensure that its condition is up to par. They should have records of any issues with the building and repairs made, the insurance policy, and inspection records. When it comes to providing information on any changes to the property or past issues, they are an excellent resource.

Information Hub: Your Broker or Insurance Agent

Your broker or broker agent is the keeper of policy knowledge. They’re key when trying to track down your policy. That isn’t a problem if you’ve never seen your policy. Your broker is required to give you a copy if the signee asks. If you are getting a runaround when requesting a copy of your policy, Premier Claims is happy to assist.

The Ally: Premier Claims

Premier Claims is your claims team’s muscle and brains. Throughout the intense battle with the insurance carrier, we will always be on your side, advocating on your behalf. We are experts in the claims process and have the tenacity and drive to fight for your rightful compensation.

Your Arsenal

One of the first steps in the claims process is to gather all necessary information about the property. The policy owner should have access to their insurance policy documents, including the declaration pages outlining key coverage details. This readily available information can expedite the intake process and facilitate smoother communication with the insurance adjuster.

You should also have a detailed timeline of the building. Whether it’s recent renovations, prior damage, or maintenance issues, you should be prepared to provide insights into the building’s history. This information can help the adjuster properly assess the extent of the damage.

Once Premier Claims has the primary information concerning your property, we can start investigating and ultimately battling it out with the villain of the claims process: the insurance carrier.

Hiring an insurance broker can save you a ton of money. They can quickly compare plans of dozens of insurance carriers, taking the stress off of your plate. While that is great in the long run, when it comes time to file an insurance claim, you’re left wondering which carrier your insurance policy is even with.

Not having a copy of your insurance policy can land you in hot water. Even worse— you don’t know who your insurance carrier is! Take action and ensure you have your policy ready to go when you need it most.

Where do I start?

This is where Premier Claims steps in. When you hire us, it’s like getting a hammer when you’ve been driving nails in with the end of a screwdriver. The screwdriver was able to get the nail into the wood. However, the hammer is more accurate and cuts time in half.

Are you having a tough time getting your insurance information from your broker? One of our representatives is happy to help get the info you need. As an additional service, we offer free policy reviews. To have your insurance policy reviewed, use the following link: https://premier-claims.com/policy-review/

Our tenacity does not waver throughout the claims process. We are your hammer. We are going to call who we need to call, meet who we need to meet, and debate who we need to debate in order to get what you are owed.

What’s next?

As we gather your insurance information, we’ll make sure you have a digital file with all necessary documents in case of another catastrophe.

These include:

Digital copy of your policy.
Blueprints of your property.
Digital inventory of all the updates and construction to your property.
Photos of your property, both pre-storm and post-damage.

Once we start the claims process, we will need to track down all of these documents to get a clear picture of your property. The more information our adjusters have, the smoother the claims process.

Property inspections play a key role in the claims process, providing valuable insights into the extent of damage incurred. At Premier Claims, we recognize the significance of thorough inspections when fighting for a fair and accurate claim settlement.

The Purpose of Property Inspections

Inspections serve as a critical juncture where both the policyholder and the insurance carrier assess the damage firsthand. These inspections are instrumental in determining the scope of repairs needed and estimating the cost of restoration. By conducting thorough inspections, policyholders can ensure that they properly document all damages, thereby reducing the likelihood of disputes during the claims process.

The Premier Claims Advantage

At Premier Claims, we take a proactive approach to inspections by sending our experienced inspectors alongside the insurance representative. This collaborative effort allows us to provide comprehensive assessments while advocating for the policyholder’s best interests. Our inspectors are trained to identify hidden damages and all relevant information to be accurately recorded. In turn, our inspections aim to increase the likelihood of a favorable claim outcome.

Inspection Goal

Brent Roberts, Inspections Manager, and Licensed Public Adjuster, believes, “Our goal is to identify damage and have the Insurance Adjuster acknowledge the damage on site.” Collaborating with your insurance carrier’s representative for an inspection allows us to ensure they’re recognizing the damage we’re seeing. Our meticulous approach focuses on identifying any damage, linking it to the date of loss, and confirming its weather-related nature. This thorough process documents all relevant information, setting the foundation for a fair and expedited claims resolution. Learn more in our full YouTube video: Let’s Talk Property Inspections

The Inspection Process

During the inspection, our team meticulously examines the property, documenting all visible damages caused by the covered peril. We pay close attention to details, capturing photographic evidence and taking note of any structural issues or safety concerns. By conducting a thorough inspection, we equip policyholders with the information needed to pursue fair and adequate compensation for their losses.

Policyholder Insight

Understanding the inspection process can empower policyholders to actively participate in their claims journey. By familiarizing themselves with common types of damages and inspection techniques, policyholders can effectively communicate their needs and concerns to the inspection team. Additionally, staying informed about their rights and entitlements allows policyholders to be well-equipped to navigate the claims process with confidence.

Property inspections are a vital component of the claims process, providing an opportunity to assess damages and advocate for fair compensation. At Premier Claims, we prioritize transparency, professionalism, and advocacy in every inspection we conduct. For more information about property inspections and our claims management services, we invite you to connect with our team today to schedule an inspection of your property.

Valentine’s Day is more than just a celebration of romantic relationships. It’s an opportunity to nurture a relationship with something equally important—your insurance policy. While insurance might not be the most exciting topic, understanding and appreciating your policy can bring peace of mind and financial security. This Valentine’s Day, learn to love your insurance policy and feel confident in the coverage you’ve chosen.

Strengthen Your Relationship

Know What You’re Covered For

The first step in loving your insurance policy is understanding what it covers. Take the time to thoroughly read through your policy documents and/or discuss them with a licensed professional. Pay close attention to key details such as property damage coverage, liability coverage, and any additional endorsements or riders that may be relevant to your property use. Understanding your coverage limits and exclusions can help you avoid surprises in the event of a claim.

Assess Your Risks

Every property faces unique risks, whether it’s due to the nature of the industry, the location of the property, or other factors. Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential threats to your commercial or residential property, such as fire, theft, natural disasters, or liability claims. Once you understand your risks, you can work with your insurance carrier to tailor your policy to provide adequate protection against those specific threats.

Review Your Policy Regularly

Just like relationships, insurance policies require regular attention and maintenance. Review your policy annually or whenever there are significant changes to your business or property. This could include renovations or expansions, changes in inventory or equipment, or updates to local building codes and regulations. Keeping your policy up-to-date allows you to have the right coverage vs. right amount of coverage.

Ask Questions

Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when navigating your insurance policy. While your insurance carrier can offer valuable insights, sometimes you may require additional support to fully grasp the complexities of your coverage. That’s where a team like Premier Claims can step in. With our team of licensed public adjusters and legal professionals, we’re dedicated to helping policyholders fully understand their policy. Whether you’re unsure about a particular clause in your policy, need clarification on a claim process, or simply want experienced guidance, our team is here to provide personalized support. To have your policy thoroughly reviewed by our team of licensed professionals, submit your policy here: https://premier-claims.com/policy-review/

Consider Additional Coverage

Depending on your needs, you may want to consider additional coverage options beyond the basic property and liability insurance. Evaluating your specific risks and considering additional coverage can provide added peace of mind. For example, as hail season quickly approaches, it’s important that your insurance policy protects your property against any damage that hail may bring. Learn more about hail damage coverage in our blog: https://premier-claims.com/blog/commercial-property-hail-damage-coverage/

Document & Maintain Records

In the event of a claim, having thorough documentation can make the process smoother and help you fight to receive fair compensation. Keep detailed records of your property, including photos, receipts, and inventory lists. Maintain copies of insurance policy documents, correspondence with your insurance carrier, and any relevant contracts or agreements. Being organized and prepared can help expedite the claims process and minimize possible disruptions to your business operations.

Stay Informed

Insurance regulations and industry standards can change over time, so it’s important to stay informed about developments that may affect your coverage. Being proactive can help you make informed decisions about your insurance policy and allow you to be adequately protected. We recommend that you subscribe to updates from your insurance carrier and participate in industry associations, so that you can stay informed of relevant news and developments in your area. We believe that knowledge is not just power but a path to peace of mind. Stay connected, stay informed, and let our team be a resource for you. For ongoing industry updates, subscribe to our blog: https://premier-claims.com/resources/blog/

By following these tips, you can develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for your insurance policy. Ultimately, giving you the confidence to face whatever challenges are thrown your way. This Valentine’s Day, take a moment to show some love to your insurance policy. It’s a relationship worth nurturing for the security and protection of your property.

As hail season approaches, we recommend that business owners ensure their insurance policy includes hail damage coverage. Picture a shield, not just against hailstones, but against the unseen risks that follow. Hailstorms pose a significant threat to commercial properties, potentially causing extensive damage to roofs, windows, exterior structures, and equipment. To navigate the challenges of hail season successfully, having the right protection in place is key.

Prepare Your Insurance Policy for Hail Season

Commercial Property Insurance

This foundational coverage protects your business, including buildings and contents, against various perils, like hail damage. Confirm that your policy explicitly includes hail damage coverage for related incidents.

Business Interruption Coverage

Hail Damage can lead to business disruptions. Business Interruption Coverage helps cover lost income, ongoing expenses, and relocation costs during the period of restoration. Ensure your policy adequately addresses the potential financial impact of hail-related disruptions. To learn more about Business Interruption Coverage read our blog: The Difference Between Business Interruption and Additional Living Expenses

Exterior Structure and Signage Coverage

Hailstorms can harm the exterior structure of your commercial property, including any signage. Therefore, it’s recommended that your insurance policy includes hail damage coverage that extends to these components to prevent unexpected repair or replacement costs.

Specialized Coverage for Equipment and Inventory

Moreover, commercial properties often house valuable equipment and inventory critical to daily operations. From high tech machinery to essential tools, your business assets are the gears that keep the engine running smoothly. Here’s a closer look at how you can protect your business and commercial property against hail damage:

Equipment Breakdown Protection

In the event of a hailstorm, equipment is vulnerable to damage. As a result of including Equipment Breakdown Protection in your policy, your policy is able to cover repairs or replacement costs for machinery affected by hail damage. Equipment Breakdown Protection extends beyond general wear and tear, providing a safety net for your technological investments.

Technology and Electronics Coverage

Modern businesses rely heavily on technology and electronic systems and specialized coverage for these assets is important for business owners to consider when reviewing their insurance policies. From servers to computers, make certain your policy includes protection for these vital components, minimizing downtime and potential loss.

Inventory Loss Coverage

Commercial properties also house inventories of products, raw materials, or goods in progress. Hail damage can lead to inventory loss, impacting your supply chain and revenue streams. Comprehensive coverage can encompass the replacement of repair costs for damaged inventory, allowing your business to recover and meet customer demands.

Customization for Industry-Specific Equipment

Recognizing the diversity of commercial enterprises, your insurance coverage can be customized to protect industry-specific equipment. Whether you’re in manufacturing, healthcare, or any other sector, you can tailor your policy to address the unique needs of your business.

Importance of Regular Policy Review

Coverage Adequacy for Business Growth

Commercial enterprises evolve, and property values change. Regular policy reviews allow for your coverage to be aligned with the current value of your commercial property and your business assets. It also allows you to account for expansions or modifications. Adjusting your policy as needed prior to the start of hail season, can protect you in the event damage occurs.

Policy Limitations and Exclusions

Commercial property insurance policies may have limitations or exclusions related to hail damage. A thorough review helps identify any potential gaps in coverage, allowing for proactive adjustments.

Risk Mitigation Strategies

Collaborate with Premier Claims to assess risk mitigation strategies specific to your business. Tailoring your policy to address unique circumstances can enhance your overall risk management plan.

As a commercial property owner, your business assets are the heartbeat of your enterprise. Don’t let hail season catch you off guard—proactively review your policy. This allows you to make any hail damage coverage additions, protecting your property and business in the best way you can. Premier Claims stands ready to assist you, offering guidance, compassion, and a commitment to policyholders. Connect with us today to prepare your business for the challenges hail season may bring. To have your policy thoroughly reviewed by our team of licensed professionals, submit your policy here: https://premier-claims.com/policy-review/

Unlock Your Claims’ Potential

Did you know that without undergoing the appraisal process, you could end up settling for less than you are entitled to under your insurance policy? Playing it is risky, with the odds seemingly stacked against you. Insurance carriers play hardball, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and outmatched. But fear not because appraisals may just be your secret negotiation weapon.

Without the backing of a thorough appraisal, insurance carriers may lack the motivation to offer you an increased, and likely owed, settlement amount. By forgoing this crucial step, you could potentially leave money on the table. Ultimately, it hinders your ability to recover entirely from the damage.

The Dreaded “A” Word

Contrary to popular belief, appraisals aren’t the Grim Reaper of your claim. Instead, think of them as your trusty sidekick, helping you navigate the murky waters of insurance disputes. By enlisting the services of an expert appraiser, like those utilized by Premier Claims, you’re taking proactive measures to protect your interests and secure the compensation you deserve.

It is possible that without an appraisal, you could leave thousands of unrecovered dollars on the table. You could use that unrecovered money to rectify property damage and rebuild your business entirely. An appraisal intends to lead to a more accurate assessment of damages, potentially resulting in an increasing settlement amount. It tends to expedite the claims process, thereby reducing stress and uncertainty for the policyholder. Don’t let fear of an appraisal hold you back from determining what you are rightfully owed.

Who Needs a Public Adjuster Anyway? Newsflash, You Do!

You might be thinking, “But do I really need a public adjuster?” The answer is a resounding yes. Public adjusters are the Jedi masters of the claims world, wielding their expertise like a lightsaber against the dark forces of insurance carriers. With a public adjuster by your side, an experienced professional will guide you every step of the way.

So, don’t gamble your investment away. Embrace the challenge, arm yourself with knowledge, and remember— Premier Claims is here to guide you every step of the way. Take charge of your claim and fight for a fair settlement.

Ready to protect your investment? Contact Premier Claims today for a consultation, and let us help you navigate the appraisal process confidently. Your future self will thank you.

In the realm of property insurance, comprehensive coverage is key. At Premier Claims we believe that an informed policyholder is an empowered one. Policyholders often focus on broad strokes, but it’s the finer details that truly define the protection you receive. One such detail worth exploring is the concept of Named Perils.

The Power of Named Perils

Named Perils are a list of specific risks or events that, when they cause damage to your property, are covered by your insurance policy. Think of it as a tailored plan, addressing the most common and impactful threats your property may face.

Common Peril Types

Fire and Smoke Damage

Fires, even non-natural disasters like electrical or kitchen fires, fall under named perils. Coverage also extends to smoke damage. Understanding this broad definition allows you to protect your property against various fire-related incidents.

Windstorm or Hail

Policyholders need to know the minimum wind speed for a windstorm, as well as the size criteria for hail in their policy. Researching your property’s location history, to know the average for both in your area, can make a big difference in ensuring your policy adequately protects your building. Regular reviews of your policy allow for accurate coverage against varying windstorm and hail intensities.

Theft and Vandalism

Property insurance distinguishes theft (unlawful property taking) from vandalism (intentional property damage). Policies have specific considerations for each. Prompt reporting for this type of damage is imperative in the claims process.

Explosion

Property insurance covers damage from explosions as named perils. Understanding the circumstances, such as exclusions for terrorism or intentional acts, can help you throughout your claim process.

Why Named Perils Matter

Tailored Protection

Your policy works as a shield for your property and your financial peace of mind. Furthermore, your insurance policy addresses the specific risks most relevant to your property.

Claim Accuracy

Armed with knowledge, you can navigate the claims process with precision. For this reason your claim may be assessed and settled more accurately.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that your coverage aligns with the potential risks your property faces, provides unparalleled peace of mind.

When reviewing your policy, pay attention to the named perils section. It’s not just a list; it’s a roadmap to a secure future. Armed with knowledge, policyholders can navigate confidently, knowing their coverage aligns with their potential risks. At Premier Claims, we guide you through the maze of insurance complexities. For personalized insights, connect with Premier Claims for a free policy review.

The type of policy coverage you choose for your property has the potential to significantly impact your financial well-being. This blog explores the importance of choosing between named (or specified) and open perils coverage, and how this choice may affect your finances. Understanding the ins and outs of these coverage types is not just about protection; it’s about making a financial decision that aligns seamlessly with your property’s needs.

What is the Difference Between Named Perils and Open Perils Coverage?

Named Perils Coverage

Named Perils coverage is like having a detailed shield for your property. In this coverage type, your policy explicitly outlines a list of perils or risks for which you are protected. It provides clarity by leaving nothing to chance— if a peril is not on the list, it’s not covered. This specificity aims for policyholders to have a clear understanding of the risks they are protected against.

Open Perils Coverage

In contrast to Named Perils, Open Perils coverage is like having a broad umbrella of protection. Under this coverage type, you are potentially safeguarded against any peril unless expressly excluded in your policy. While it offers broader coverage, it’s important to note that the cost of an open perils policy is typically higher than its named perils counterpart. This is due to the expansive nature of the protection.

How Do You Choose?

Selecting the right coverage type is a pivotal decision that impacts the depth of your protection and the cost of your policy. At Premier Claims, we advocate for a thoughtful consideration based on your own unique circumstances. Here are factors we recommend you consider:

Budgetary Considerations

Named perils coverage often comes at a lower cost, making it an attractive option for those looking for comprehensive coverage on a budget.

Property Specifics

Assess the specific risks your property might face. If your property is in an area prone to unique perils, open perils coverage might be worth the added investment.

Risk Tolerance

Evaluate your risk tolerance. If you prefer clarity and a detailed understanding of your covered risks, named perils coverage might align better with your preferences.

When it comes to choosing your property insurance coverage, there is no one size fits all solution. Premier Claims encourages policyholders to engage in thorough conversations, carefully weighing the advantages and disadvantages of both named perils and open perils coverage. Our aim is to guide you in making an informed decision that aligns best with your property’s needs.

Why Your Contractor Can’t Handle Your Insurance Claim