When homeowners file an insurance claim, they typically trust that their insurer will promptly review the damages and provide the compensation they deserve. Unfortunately, carriers sometimes attempt to delay or outright deny claims instead, leaving policyholders frustrated and financially burdened.
Ideally, policyholders fully understand their coverage and can spot these tactics, but that is rarely the case. Instead, when a claim does not go as planned, hiring a Public Adjuster can be the most effective approach. Since Public Adjusters are state-licensed insurance professionals who work on behalf of the policyholder, not the insurance company, they have experience dealing with insurance companies that prioritize outcomes other than resolving the claim fairly.
Float is a term made famous by Billionaire investor and Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffet to describe one of the most valuable ways insurers can grow their profits (Ahern, 2019). In his words: "Insurers receive premiums upfront and pay claims later. This collect-now, pay-later model leaves us holding large sums — money we call "float" — that will eventually go to others. Meanwhile, we get to invest this float for Berkshire's benefit."
Reports about the slow pace of claims processing and improper denials are common in the insurance industry, particularly in the wake of natural disasters. Following Hurricane Ian in Florida, more than 4,000 homeowners filed official complaints with the state about their carriers (Cimini, 2023). Maui fire victims experienced denials based only on aerial photographs rather than on-the-ground inspections (Downey, 2023).
Whether your damages result from a weather event that affected many others or an isolated incident, a Public Adjuster can help insured homeowners determine whether a company is acting in bad faith or simply making a mistake and craft the most appropriate response.
After a significant loss, it can take 18-24 months to rebuild a home and replace items (NAIC, 2022), And there are many ways that insurers might attempt to delay that even longer or deny paying a claim at all. At Tiger Adjusters, we have dealt with all of them.
One common tactic is arguing insufficient documentation. Insurance carriers may request additional proof, such as photos, receipts or expert reports, which can drag out the process. Another approach is to exploit exclusions or limitations by relying on vague language in the policy.
Some companies may demand multiple inspections, seek additional expert opinions or question the policyholder's account of events. Extending the investigation process can make policyholders more likely to accept less than the amount they deserve. Similarly, undervaluation of the damage is another problem that can leave homeowners struggling without the financial support they anticipated from their insurance coverage.
In each of these situations, the assistance of a Public Adjuster can be an invaluable asset. Our expert knowledge of insurance policies, regulations and claims procedures allows us to counter the most underhanded tactics effectively.
We excel at gathering and organizing all necessary evidence to support the policyholder's claim and can ensure that no crucial details are overlooked, minimizing the insurer's ability to argue insufficient evidence. We can also review insurance policies to identify applicable coverage and rebut attempts by insurers to implement policy exclusions or limitations.
A Tiger Adjuster’s negotiation skills also allows them to address delays, disputes or undervaluation of damages promptly. With our team in your corner, you can navigate the challenges posed by insurers and increase your chances of receiving the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Let Tiger Adjusters take the lead on your claim, and be confident that you will receive a fair settlement as soon as possible. Reach out today to connect with a Public Adjuster who can help expedite your return to normal.
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BIBLOGRAPHY
Ahern, D. (2019, September 30). Float: How Insurance Companies Can Leverage Buffett's Secret to Wealth. einvestingforbeginners.com. Retrieved from https://einvestingforbeginners.com/insurance-float-ahern/
Cimini, K. (2023, August 16). When will they pay? Floridians say state not holding insurance carriers accountable post-Ian. Fort Meyers News-Press. Retrieved from https://www.news-press.com/story/news/state/2023/08/16/florida-insurance-crisis-low-payouts-claim-denials-hurricane-ian-recovery/70277542007/
Downey, K. (2023, September 28). Maui's Fire Victims Are Frustrated By Insurance Hassles, Financial Delays. Honolulu Civil Beat. Retrieved from https://www.civilbeat.org/2023/09/mauis-fire-victims-are-frustrated-by-insurance-hassles-financial-delays/
National Association of Insurance Commissioners. (2022, May 22). What You Should Know About Settling a Homeowners Insurance Claim. Retrieved from https://content.naic.org/article/what-you-should-know-about-settling-homeowners-insurance-claim
