The Mask of Trust

You’ve faithfully paid your insurance premiums for years, believing that when disaster strikes, your insurance carrier will swoop in to save the day. But what if I told you your blind trust could be costing you thousands? Take the time to learn their game and overcome possible insurance deception.

The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing

Your insurance agent may smile warmly and shake your hand, but beneath that friendly facade lies a stark reality: their loyalty isn’t to you— it’s to their employer. And when push comes to shove, whose interests do you think they’ll prioritize?

Let’s be real: insurance carriers are in the business of making money, not handing it out. When you file a claim, your agent’s job isn’t to maximize your payout— it’s to protect the company’s profits. Suddenly, that friendly smile doesn’t seem so reassuring, does it?

The Power of Choice

Unlike your insurance agent, we’re not beholden to the whims of the insurance company. Our allegiance lies solely with you, the policyholder, and we are committed to fighting stop at nothing to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Still Skeptical?

Imagine this: You’re facing the aftermath of a vicious storm, and you filed a claim with your insurance carrier, seeking rightful compensation for hail damage to your property’s metal roof. But instead of a swift resolution, you’re met with a daunting denial— making you question the coverage you’ve faithfully paid for.

Enter Premier Claims

With unwavering determination, we become your advocate. In the face of carrier delay tactics, we stand firm by your side, armed with collected evidence of the storm’s damage to your property.

Through our expertise, we secured a $1.16 million settlement for a complete roof replacement. Our impact didn’t stop there, as we commonly attempt to steer the insured towards a future of coverage security by advising an upgrade to a more robust policy, further safeguarding them from future coverage denials.

This isn’t just a story we pulled out of thin air— it’s a true testament to our capabilities. Premier Claims secured this complete roof replacement for a religious center in Orlando, Florida. Imagine the possibilities for your own claim.

Take Your Place in the Driver’s Seat

As storm clouds gather on the horizon, now is the time to take action. Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your interests. Contact Premier Claims today, and let us be your guiding light in the darkness of insurance deception. Together, we can weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.

In the face of uncertainty, one thing remains clear: the importance of having a trusted ally by your side. With Premier Claims in your corner, you can rest easy knowing your interests are protected. Don’t let the storm catch you off guard— let us lead you to victory.

The State of Hurricane Ian Insurance Claims

Hurricane Ian brought widespread devastation to Florida, prompting a surge in insurance claims. However, data from the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (FLOIR) reveals a concerning reality: a significant portion of these claims were denied. Specifically, 28.3% of residential and 30.6% of commercial claims were fully denied, leaving many policyholders without the compensation they needed to recover.

The Scale of Denials and Underpayments

These Hurricane Ian claim denial rates indicate that over one in four policyholders received no payment for their claims, not even partial settlements. This situation highlights critical issues within the insurance claim process, especially in high-impact areas such as Lee and Charlotte counties, where the denial rates were particularly high. The statistics underscore a broader challenge in ensuring that policyholders receive fair and timely settlements.

Lines of Business	Claims Reported	Open Claims with Payment	Open Claims without Payment	Claims Closed with Payment	Claims Closed without Payment	Percent of Claims Closed
Residential Property	558,299	24,180	13,369	362,626	158,124	93.3%
Homeowners	454,072	20,259	11,463	286,786	135,564	93.0%
Dwelling	57,451	2,950	1,672	37,912	14,917	92.0%
Mobile Homeowners	42,861	491	87	35,839	6,444	98.7%
Commercial Residential	3,915	480	147	2,089	1,199	84.0%
Commercial Property	33,010	4,508	4,383	11,363	12,756	73.1%
Private Flood	5,645	378	85	3,705	1,477	91.8%
Business Interruption	582	25	21	411	125	92.1%
Other	179,405	1,097	998	151,764	25,546	98.8%
TOTALS	776,941	30,188	18,856	529,869	198,028	93.7%

Data collected by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation as of April 22, 2024

Why Are So Many Claims Denied?

Several factors contribute to the high rate of claim denials. According to industry reports and expert analyses, common reasons include:

Insufficient Documentation

Often, claims are denied due to inadequate documentation. Policyholders must provide comprehensive evidence of their losses, including photographs, receipts, and detailed descriptions. Without this, insurers may find grounds to deny a claim.

Policy Exclusions

Many insurance policies contain specific exclusions that are not always clearly understood by policyholders. These exclusions can cover a range of situations, from particular types of damage to specific causes of loss, and can lead to unexpected denials.

Misinterpretation of Policy Terms

Misinterpretation or misunderstandings about policy coverage can also result in claim denials. Both insurers and policyholders may have different interpretations of what the policy covers, which can lead to disputes.

The Importance of Claim Reviews

Given these high denial rates, it is crucial for policyholders to seek a professional claim review. This process can identify potential underpayments or improper denials, allowing policyholders to receive the compensation they’re owed according to their policy. The FLOIR encourages policyholders facing issues with their claims to report them and seek assistance. Professional reviews by trained adjusters, like those at Premier Claims, can help navigate the complexities of insurance policies and advocate for a fair settlement.

Taking Action

The data above clearly shows a significant number of claims from Hurricane Ian were denied or remain unresolved to this day. Affected policyholders need to act proactively. By seeking a professional claim review, you can set yourself up for success to help rectify your losses.

If you experienced a Hurricane Ian claim denial or you suspect it was underpaid, consider getting a thorough claim review. Contact Premier Claims today to learn more.

Don’t Underestimate the Storm: Why Your Property Needs a Damage Assessment

The “It Wasn’t That Bad” Trap

It’s a common reaction: “The storm wasn’t that bad; I don’t think I’ll have much damage.” Many property owners, after experiencing what seems like a minor storm, tend to dismiss the need for a damage assessment. However, this mindset can lead to more significant issues down the line. Ignoring potential damage can turn minor problems into costly repairs. Here’s why you should always consider a professional damage assessment, even if the storm didn’t seem severe.

The Hidden Dangers of “Minor” Storms

Not all storm damage is immediately visible. While your property might look unscathed, hidden damage can lurk beneath the surface. Small leaks can develop into significant water damage, minor cracks can expand, and what seems like a tiny dent can compromise the structural integrity of your roof.

Water Damage: The Silent Destroyer

Water damage is one of the most insidious issues that can stem from a storm. A tiny leak might not seem like a big deal, but over time, it can lead to mold growth, rot, and severe structural damage. According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage claims are among the most common and costly types of property owner insurance claims.

Structural Compromise

Even a seemingly insignificant storm can weaken your property’s structural integrity. Minor damage to your roof, windows, or foundation can worsen over time, especially with repeated exposure to the elements. It’s essential to address these issues early to prevent more severe damage and higher repair costs.

The Importance of a Professional Damage Assessment

A professional public adjuster has the expertise to identify a multitude of types of damage, potentially even hidden damage. A public adjuster can obtain a comprehensive assessment of your property’s condition, thereby helping you file a more accurate and timely insurance claim. This proactive approach can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. To learn more about what happens during a damage assessment, watch our full video: What is a Damage Assessment?

Expertise and Experience: Why DIY Isn’t Enough

While it may be tempting to assess the damage yourself, even the most vigilant property owners can overlook critical issues. Public adjusters and professional inspectors bring years of experience to the table, spotting damage that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. They know what to look for, from the most minor signs of water intrusion to subtle structural shifts that could indicate a larger problem.

Move Forward with Confidence

Opting for a professional damage assessment after any storm, no matter how minor it seems, provides peace of mind. You’ll have a better understanding of your property’s condition, and if there is damage, you’ll be able to address it promptly before it escalates. This proactive step can also simplify the insurance claim process, helping to ensure that you receive the coverage you’re entitled to without any surprises down the line.

The Cost of Complacency

Skipping a damage assessment might save you time and money in the short term, but the long-term costs can be significant. By the time damage becomes apparent, repairs are likely to be much more expensive. Additionally, delayed claims can lead to disputes with your insurance carrier, potentially reducing the payout or extending the claims process.

Don’t Gamble with Your Property

In the aftermath of a storm, your property’s well-being isn’t something to gamble with. The risks of hidden damage far outweigh the perceived inconvenience or cost of a professional assessment. Protect your investment, and make sure that even the “minor” storms don’t lead to major headaches.

Schedule Your Damage Assessment Today

Don’t wait for the damage to become a significant problem— or for it to be too late. Schedule a professional damage assessment today and ensure your property is in the clear. Whether it’s a minor storm or a major one, your property deserves the best care possible.

When you file an insurance claim, you expect your insurance carrier to have your back. Right? After all, that’s why you’ve been paying premiums all these years. Unfortunately, the reality is often quite different. Insurance companies, like any business, are driven by profits. This can lead to practices prioritizing their bottom line over your best interests. Here’s a closer look at some common insurance carrier tactics and how Premier Claims, a dedicated public adjusting firm, can help you combat them:

Common Insurance Carrier Tactics

1. Denial of Valid Claims

Insurance carriers may deny your claim for various reasons, often citing that the damage is not covered or is excluded due to policy limitations. One common tactic is to label damage as “old” or outside coverage limits, even if it occurred during the policy period. This is where regular property inspections become crucial. Premier Claims emphasizes that regular inspections document the condition of your property and ensure that you can clearly distinguish any new damage from pre-existing issues. To have your property inspected by our team, contact us today.

2. Underpayment of Claims

Insurance carriers may significantly underpay claims even if your claim is not outright denied. They rely on policyholders’ lack of insurance knowledge and the frustration of navigating the claims process. At Premier Claims, we counter this by leveraging our expertise to analyze your policy meticulously. We break down complex industry terminology and ensure that you receive compensation according to the terms of your policy.

3. Confusing Policy Language

Insurance policies are notorious for their complex language and industry-specific terminology. Carriers may use this to their advantage, hoping to confuse policyholders into accepting less than they deserve. Premier Claims provides a critical service by interpreting and explaining your policy in plain language. Our team dives deep into the fine print, uncovering any hidden benefits and ensuring that every clause is interpreted to maximize your claim. To ensure your property is adequately protected, have your policy reviewed by our team: Complimentary Policy Review

How Premier Claims Can Help You

At Premier Claims, we understand the challenges you face when dealing with common insurance carrier tactics. Our mission is to level the playing field and to help protect your rights throughout the claims process. Here’s how we can assist you:

COMPREHENSIVE POLICY ANALYSIS

Our legal team dissects insurance policies to uncover every potential benefit available to you.

STRATEGIC CLAIM NEGOTIATION

We fiercely advocate for you, negotiating with insurance carriers to secure the maximum compensation available.

EXPERT GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT

From initial consultation to final settlement, we provide personalized support and guidance, intending to keep you informed and empowered.

Don’t let insurance carriers exploit your trust and lack of industry knowledge. At Premier Claims, we are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the best compensation available. Whether your claim has been denied, underpaid, or needs professional guidance through the claims process, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can help protect your interests and maximize your insurance claim.

How Do You Know You’re Properly Covered in the Event of a Disaster? Answer— You Don’t!

We’ve all got a million and one things on our plate, and who has the time to sit down and dissect an insurance policy, right? Here’s the cold, hard truth— neglecting that policy review could be the decision that haunts you when disaster strikes.

A storm rolls in, lightning cracks, thunder roars, and suddenly your business is flooded, your investments ruined. You’re knee-deep in water scrambling to salvage what you can, all while the clock ticks down.

What if you had taken the time to get that policy review?

What if you had known the ins and outs of your coverage like the back of your hand?

Maybe, just maybe, you could have avoided the nightmare altogether.

Insurance Carriers Are Pros at Taking Your Money

Here’s the kicker— insurance policies are notorious for their labyrinthine language and sneaky loopholes. That “Act of God” clause? It might not cover as much as you think. And those exclusions buried in the fine print? They could leave you high and dry when you need help the most.

Not all insurance claims have a happy ending, but it is possible to increase the likelihood of a happy ending relatively easily. Enters the Public Adjuster: the unsung heroes of the insurance world. Public adjusters, like those at Premier Claims, are armed with the knowledge and expertise to navigate the murky waters of your policy.

Still not convinced? Consider this— The time you invest in that policy review could be the difference between a smooth claims process and a never-ending nightmare. Not to mention that a policy review will only take seconds of your time. Picture yourself sailing through the storm, confident and prepared, while others flounder in the chaos.

Intrigued? Concerned? Good, it’s time to take action.

Face the beast head-on, arm yourself with knowledge, and take control of your claim. Because when disaster strikes you’ll want to be the one calling the shots, not the other way around.

Reach out to Premier Claims today and let us guide you through the murky waters of insurance policies. Your future self will thank you – trust us, we’ve seen it all.

Remember, ignorance may be bliss, but it’s a one-way ticket to disaster. Allow our team of experts to evaluate your insurance policy and ensure your property is properly protected. By submitting your policy, you’ll gain valuable insight on how to optimize your coverage for maximum benefit. Don’t let it cost you everything. Submit your policy for review today: https://premier-claims.com/policy-review/

Emotions run high as communities assess the full extent of devastation caused over the weekend. About 40 tornadoes tore across the Midwest, including Nebraska, Iowa, Oklahoma, and Kansas, as well as a few down in Texas. Some reports show around a hundred tornadoes touched down over the tumultuous weekend. It’s clear there is much work ahead to recover from this disaster. But where do you start?

If this whirlwind of devastation affected you, then you most likely asked yourself that very question: Where do I start?

When you experience such a level of devastation that rips your entire life from its foundation and scatters it about, it becomes almost impossible to think straight. The flattened view of homes and memories before you is captioned by children’s confused cries as they search for their Wubbie or bicycle – the equivalent of an emotional tornado. Where do you find time to pick up the pieces of littered remnants of your home and everything within it?

Recovery & Claim Tips

Take care of yourself and your family and make sure you’re all safe.
The first step is to take pictures. Take pictures of everything even if you’ve already filed with your insurance company and a carrier adjuster came out to take photos. Take your own! Often, without photos and proof, the carrier may pushback and fight covering certain things.
Locate a copy of your policy, if possible. If you have an online account, most insurance carriers will provide a copy of your policy there. If you don’t have an online account, see if you can create one. This is the quickest route to your full policy!
Note your deductible and coverage for Additional Living Expenses or ALE. These funds will be critical. They will cover a place to stay while your property is being assessed/repaired, food, and other necessities.
Your insurance company will probably issue a check for Additional Living Expenses sooner rather than later so you can establish somewhere to stay and take care of daily living expenses.
If you have downed trees and/or tree debris, be mindful that your policy may not cover much for tree removal. Tree removal companies won’t be taking this into account when they’re cleaning up, but they’ll get paid one way or another. A typical residential homeowner’s policy will cover $1,000 for tree debris with $500 allowed per tree. A full tree removal will be $3-$6k.
Utilize local resources – News 6 WOWT has a list of resources for Nebraska and Iowa, as well as how we can all help as a community. For Oklahoma, visit The Oklahoman for a list of resources, which will update as more information becomes available.

Next Steps

The next steps become increasingly complicated and time consuming. The claims process can take 6 months to a year or longer. Do you have an additional 20 hours available to spend on a claim for the next 6 months to a year on top of your normal life? I know I don’t and most other people don’t either.

Are you prepared to tackle all that is required in the claims process?

Unlike the carrier adjuster, a public adjuster solely has your interests in mind. They can manage the additional 20 hours a week to handle your claim, reducing your burden. Public adjusters are experts in their field. They will advise and assist you throughout the entire claims process, eliminating those nagging questions and uncertainties you have right now.

What should I do?

Where do I start?

How do we get through this?

Premier Claims is familiar with disaster response and aiding property owners with claims, and this time, it’s in our own backyard. Our experts are here to help our community rebuild and heal from this tragedy. For more support, reach out to our team today: https://premier-claims.com/storm-damage/

By: Ashley Workman | Sr. Paralegal & Licensed Public Adjuster

Steps to Take After Property Damage

As you’re sitting at your dinner table, drinking your coffee, and eating your breakfast, you open up Facebook, and all you see are photos, videos, and news articles about the hail storm that swept through your neighborhood. You see that one of your friends posted a picture of a golf ball-sized hail near one of the office buildings you own. You realize there is a VERY good chance your building has damage. What do you do? Do you know how to navigate the claims process after property damage?

Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do after property damage:

1. Mitigate Further Damage

First and foremost, prioritize your own safety and that of others. If the damage poses any immediate danger, take necessary steps to mitigate further impact or loss to your property. This could involve actions like boarding up windows, covering exposed areas, or shutting off utilities if necessary. Safety should always be the top priority.

2. Document the Damage

Capture thorough photographic and video evidence of all damage. This documentation is crucial as it serves as tangible proof of the extent of the damage for your insurance claim. Take pictures and videos from multiple angles, including close-up shots and wider views, to capture the full scope of the damage.

Focus on Exterior Components: Inspect and document any damage to the roof, siding, windows, and surrounding landscape features such as foliage. Look for signs of dents, punctures, missing shingles or tiles, and debris accumulation.
Immediate Assistance: If you cannot immediately document the damage yourself, contact our team promptly. We can dispatch someone to conduct a thorough damage assessment and gather the necessary information for your claim.

3. Contact Our Team for Guidance

Reach out to our team as soon as possible for professional assistance. Premier Claims specializes in navigating the complexities of insurance claims and can provide invaluable guidance from the outset.

Assessment and Documentation: Our team will conduct an on-site inspection to gather comprehensive evidence of all recoverable damage under your insurance policy.
Detailed Damage List: We’ll help you create a detailed list of all damage, impacted areas, and any structural issues. This includes a summary of the date, time, and severity of the event that caused the damage.
Compile Records: Gather any relevant records related to your property, such as maintenance records, previous inspection reports, repair receipts, and prior photographs. These documents strengthen your claim by providing a history of the property’s condition.

4. Initiate the Claims Process

After reviewing the evidence and records, if we determine there is sufficient damage covered under your policy, we will initiate the claims process on your behalf.

Notification to Insurance Carrier: We will notify your insurance carrier of the damage incurred and provide all necessary documentation to support your claim.
Advocacy and Support: Throughout the claims process, our team will advocate for your best interests and work hard to get you fair compensation for the damage to the property. Dealing with property damage can be daunting, but taking proactive steps and partnering with our experienced team can make a significant difference in the outcome of your insurance claim. By promptly documenting the damage, compiling necessary records, and initiating the claims process with our guidance, you can lay a solid foundation for a smooth and successful resolution.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in navigating the insurance claims process and recovering from property damage effectively. Your peace of mind is our priority.

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.

Imagine yourself walking into a courtroom. Let’s say you’ve been sued by a disgruntled employee alleging you unlawfully fired them. Unfortunately, their lawyer is very good at making the judge believe that they were the victim of workplace abuse. Despite documentation that clearly demonstrates their poor performance as an employee—including unexcused absences, frequently missed deadlines, and complaints from other employees regarding their conduct—you opted to represent yourself to forgo additional legal fees. Without legal representation, you fail to introduce evidence of poor workmanship in your defense, and you overlook any viable objections.

Now ask yourself: Was saving the initial expense of a lawyer lucrative, even with the knowledge that if you lose, it will cost you more money? This hypothetical scenario paints a picture of a level of risk comparable to the risk of filing a large loss insurance claim without a public adjuster.

With the involvement of a public adjuster, a claim settles for more, which means more money for you to restore your property to its former glory. Without our assistance, your settlement could be lower, resulting in a lower payout of the claim as a whole.

Do You Know Your Worth?

In 2022, Hurricane Ian swept through the Florida coast, destroying homes, businesses, and livelihoods. Bacon’s Furniture in Port Charlotte, Florida, experienced a total building and inventory loss due to the high winds. The hurricane pulled off the roof down to the plywood, leaving bits of the roof sprinkled among the rubble.

As a furniture store, the inside of the building contained dining room chairs that no one would ever use for a Thanksgiving meal, couches, and armchairs that would never spark sibling rivalry during family movie night, and beds that would never receive praise for giving their owners the best sleep of their lives.

The financial loss would cost Bacon millions, but their carrier’s initial offer was only slightly over two million dollars. Enter Premier Claims.

Our experts did a thorough inspection of the damage outside of the building, as well as the torn and broken furniture inside. After multiple negotiations, inspections with a handful of experts, and hiring a Business Personal Property (BPP) company to do a full inventory of the damaged furniture, we got Bacon’s carrier to release over thirteen million dollars.

Don’t Settle For Less

Bacon could have settled and accepted the two million, but it wouldn’t have covered the entirety of the cost for the damage and loss of inventory sustained by the store. By retaining Premier Claims, Bacon’s Furniture benefited significantly from higher payouts, even with Premier’s added fee expenses.

At Premier Claims, we understand the importance of transparency and trust. Our fee structure varies depending on the state and the specifics of the claim. In some cases, fees are billed hourly, while in others, they are contingent on the successful resolution of your claim. Rest assured that we’re committed to advocating for your best interests and aim to maximize the potential of your claim. We’re here to provide the support and expertise you need, tailored to your situation.

Empower Yourself with Premier Claims

Don’t let concerns about our fee overshadow the significant benefits of partnering with Premier Claims. With our full team of experts on your side, you can navigate the claims process confidently, knowing that you have dedicated advocates fighting for your rights under your policy. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help secure the compensation you deserve.

Insurance Deception Exposed: Who is Your Carrier Loyal to?