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/

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 to 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 dollar 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 more robust policy, in an attempt to further safeguard you 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 that your interests are protected. Don’t let the storm catch you off guard— let us lead you to victory.

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.

Hail storms are significant contributors to property damage caused by natural disasters. Among the various structures affected, metal roofs face their own unique set of challenges. With this guide, you will be empowered with the knowledge to identify and address hail damage on metal roofs, safeguarding your investments and ensuring the long-term integrity of your properties.

Common Cosmetic Exclusions for Metal Roofs

While hail damage on metal roofs can have significant consequences, it’s essential to be aware of standard cosmetic exclusions that may impact your insurance coverage. These exclusions often relate to aesthetic issues rather than structural damage and can affect the overall claim settlement process. These exclusions limit insurance liability for minor, non-structural imperfections that do not compromise the roof’s functionality or safety. Insurers argue that covering cosmetic damage would lead to higher premiums and increased claims for minor issues. Understanding the rationale behind these exclusions helps policyholders navigate their coverage and manage their expectations during the claims process.

Minor Dents and Indentations

In many cases, minor dents and indentations caused by hail may be considered cosmetic issues rather than structural damage. Insurance policies often have limitations or exclusions regarding coverage for these types of cosmetic imperfections.

Paint Discoloration

Similarly, paint discoloration or chipping resulting from hail impacts may be deemed cosmetic and not fully covered by insurance policies. It’s essential to understand the extent of your coverage regarding paint damage and any limitations that may apply.

Granule Loss

While metal shingles are not as standard as other roofing materials, they are still susceptible to hail damage. However, insurance policies may have exclusions regarding coverage for granule loss on metal shingles, as it may not be considered structural damage to some carriers.

Understanding these standard cosmetic exclusions is crucial for property owners to assess their insurance coverage and file claims for hail damage on metal roofs. Reviewing your insurance policy carefully and consulting a licensed professional to ensure adequate coverage for structural and cosmetic damage resulting from hailstorms is important. To have your insurance policy reviewed by our experienced team, submit a policy review form: https://premier-claims.com/policy-review/

The Potential Consequences of Undetected Hail Damage

Structural Compromise

Hail-induced dents can weaken the structural integrity of metal roofs over time, potentially leading to leaks, water infiltration, and structural failures. These dents may not be immediately apparent but can worsen over time due to thermal expansion, contraction, and additional hailstorms. Addressing hail damage promptly is essential to prevent further deterioration and ensure the long-term stability of the roof structure.

Corrosion and Rust

When the protective paint coating is compromised by hail damage, exposed metal surfaces are vulnerable to corrosion and rust. Corrosion and rust can spread rapidly, causing structural damage and reducing the roof’s lifespan. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are necessary to mitigate the risk of corrosion and preserve the structural integrity of the metal roof.

Business Disruption

Undetected hail damage poses significant risks to business operations. Water infiltration resulting from roof leaks can damage interior finishes and inventory, leading to costly repairs and unplanned closures. Mold growth and compromised indoor air quality can further escalate issues, potentially forcing losses and impacting customer trust and employee productivity. Undetected hail damage could lead your business to take a big financial hit, but it can be avoided. Proactive measures such as regular inspections and prompt repairs are crucial to help minimize these risks and allow for the continuity of operations.

Mitigating the Impact of Hail Damage

Schedule Regular Inspections

Proactively schedule inspections by a licensed public adjuster to promptly identify hail damage after the date of loss. These inspections should occur at least annually, with additional assessments following severe weather events such as hailstorms. Qualified inspectors will thoroughly examine the roof for signs of hail damage, including signs of dents, paint discoloration, and granule loss. Properly documented photos of your property will be used during your claim and can come in handy in the event of future claims. To have your property inspected by our experienced licensed Public Adjusters, connect with our team: https://premier-claims.com/contact-us/

Prompt Repairs

Upon detecting hail damage during an inspection, it’s important for property owners to prioritize prompt repairs to help mitigate further damage and business disruptions. Utilizing durable materials resistant to future hail damage may enhance the roof’s durability against future storms. Failure to acknowledge preexisting damage before a new date of loss occurs may complicate your claims process.

By implementing these strategies, commercial property owners can effectively navigate hail damage on metal roofs, protecting their investment and prolonging the lifespan of their metal roof. Stay informed, stay proactive, and protect your property against the unpredictable repercussions of hail storms.

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.

Insurance Carrier Tactics Exposed