Residential Claims
FIRE AND WATER
While insurance policies were created to protect against fire loss, we often hear that the water caused more damage than the fire. This is often true. Water can lead to mold, deterioration of bonding materials, damage from excessive weight, and, depending on the source of the water, hazardous contamination.
Navigating a fire loss claim involves many challenges. Among those challenges are understanding construction, interpreting the insurance policy, and, most importantly, knowing how the claims process works.
VANDALISM
Vandalism claims can be tricky in that they require different protocols than fire claims. There must be a police report, and that report needs to be consistent with the damages caused by the incident.
In addition, most policies have limitations or exclusions if the property was vacant or unoccupied for a period of time. Perhaps the greatest challenge is proving that the damages are not the result of normal wear and tear.
THEFT
Similar to vandalism, theft claims present challenges that are different from fire claims.
In most fire claims, the property is still there to be inspected. Because there is no property for the insurance company to inspect in a theft claim, it becomes important to prove that you owned the stolen property.
This can be done with photos, receipts, affidavits, or other types of documentation. There also needs to be a police report that mirrors the damage assessment.
CLAIM SETTLEMENT
Insurance policies are unique contracts between two parties, you and your insurance company. While both parties are bound by the agreement, many of the policy's responsibilities fall on you, the insured.
Within the "Conditions" section of your policy is a provision titled "Requirements in Case of Loss."One of these requirements is your duty to protect the property from further damage after a loss. The policy also requires you to provide documentation and evidence that proves the extent of your damages.
Establishing an equal footing with the insurance company is essential to receiving a fair settlement. Our job is to prepare and present your claim by thoroughly documenting and substantiating your damages. We work to maximize the recovery you are entitled to under the terms of your insurance policy.