When disaster strikes it is hard on all of us. Each one of us is having to deal with some sort of damage, whether it be hail, wind, a hurricane, or the aftermath of a tornado. But, no matter the damage, we all have to deal with our insurance company. Yes that company we pay premiums to each month.
Most of us at some point after the disaster will have spoken with our adjusters, had a “walk about” with them, and have their estimate in our hands. Some of us have received monies towards the rebuild of our homes, and others have been told it’s on the way. Few of us have hired lawyers, and others have sat baffled not understanding what’s next.
It is not uncommon to A) feel frustrated, B) think we are getting the low end of the stick, or C) feel like we didn’t have that much damage, so do I really need to claim that?
Here are some basic tips to help you along the way and hopefully get you out A,B, or C.
1) We pay premiums so that we don’t have to “assume the loss.” If you feel the dollars you have received are not enough to restore as needed, you are probably right. When this is all done, the only thing you should pay out of pocket is your deductible.
2) A “pre loss condition”. Remember what your home looked like before the loss? Will it look like that in the end? Are all the windows the same, exterior light fixtures, siding? Simply put, it is our job as a contractor, restorer to put your home back to a pre loss condition. In some states, like Colorado, it is not required for the insurance companies to restore everything to a pre loss condition. Check with the professional in your area.
3) An insurance “adjuster” is just that, and adjuster. They adjust. And who do they adjust for? Certainly not the consumer.
4) Depending on the damage we may have tarped roofs and are waiting in some schedule book for a roofer. Water damage due to frequent rains and tarped roofs is covered under insurance. If you’ve had damage inform your adjuster so that they may adjust their estimate as needed. If mold has started to grow from current moisture, that may also be covered due to the fact it is secondary damage.
All of these tips can help you decide if you are receiving what is truly needed to put your life back in order. If you are still coming up short, hire a professional who deals with insurance companies on a daily basis and has experience in major disasters. We can help you fight the battle.
