What To Expect From an Adjuster After an Insurance Claim Has Been Filed

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

Both commercial and residential water damage can happen from a variety of issues such as a pipe burst, roof issues, and storm surges. Many times water losses are unexpected so it is important to always be aware of what's covered if your insurance policy changes.

Although each insurance is different, you can usually expect a visit from an insurance adjuster after you have filed a claim. The adjuster comes out on behalf of the insurance company to see any damages first hand and make a proper recommendation about claim approval.

During their visit to your home, the insurance adjuster will be looking for several things, including:

• Evidence of structural damage
• Cause of the damage
• Receipts for claimed losses
• Estimates for repairs
• Mitigation attempts

To save yourself time, ensure you have the proper documents for when the adjuster arrives. You should put together a loss inventory. This document will include an itemized list of all damaged or destroyed items. If possible, include pictures of all the items along with copies of receipts. Additionally, you should compile a list of any structural damage to your home. The list should identify the specific location and any damage. Finally, you will want to have copies of repair bids. The adjuster will need to see estimates of the damage done to the property. A remediation company can help you gather any necessary information.

Even though a water loss can be a lot to deal with, the insurance company will expect the property owner to have made attempts to mitigate the water damage. Whether that means reaching out to a disaster mitigation company and getting estimates, or patching up a hole in the roof, they want to see you've made an attempt. Be aware that failure to mitigate further loss can result in the denial of your claim.

Remember, the insurer is not your friend; they do not want to give you money, and they especially do not want to give you more than they have to.

It is also important to remember that while an insurance company might have preferred contractors, you do not need to work with them for a claim to be approved. It is important to hire the professional you feel most comfortable with.