How do I Deal With Home Insurance Fire Damage Adjusters?

The adjuster is your primary contact with the insurance company.

Your home has just been damaged by a fire as you watched much of your sense of security literally go up in smoke. You called your insurance company to report the loss, and now you are dealing with a fire damage adjuster. Whether the adjuster works for your insurance company or is a public adjuster working for you, you are unsure of the proper way to deal with this person to maximize your chances of receiving a timely and satisfactory settlement.

Things You'll Need

• List of items being claimed.

Instructions

1. Prepare a list of personal belongings that have been damaged or destroyed in the fire, as best as possible.

2. Advise your adjuster of the damaged items being claimed, as well as your needs for temporary living arrangements if needed. This will ensure you have an adequate place to stay if your home is uninhabitable and may expedite an initial settlement for your belongings.

3. Provide the adjuster access to your home. He will inspect the structural integrity and extent of the damage to determine if it can be repaired. He will also work with law enforcement and public utilities companies to mitigate further damage.

4. Record all your communications with the adjuster. Keep all emails and written correspondence, and write down the verbal communication including dates and times.

5. Speak kindly and respectfully to the adjuster. It is not her fault that your home was damaged. Most adjusters desire to help you and will do so to the extent they are able.

6. Ask for a supervisor's or manager's contact information if you feel the adjuster is not cooperating with you. Follow up with the management if necessary.

7. Contact your state's Department of Insurance if you must file a complaint against your insurer or require assistance with the claim.

Tips & Warnings

• The more organized you are, the easier the claims process will be. Read your insurance policy to understand what benefits are available to you and communicate your needs to the adjuster in a timely manner.

• Sometimes it is necessary to contact a lawyer, or the Department of Insurance, or both. However, doing so will strain your working relationship with the adjuster. If possible, resolve all issues with the adjuster directly before seeking third-party assistance.

References

• Do It Yourself: What Insurance Adjusters Look at When Assessing Fire Damage
• CT Post: Insurance Adjuster Leaves, and House-Fire Claim Fizzles