Many commercial building owners approach us about about needing more money on their property claims. This is a major issue. Once we analyzed the situation, we were able to put a plan together and achieve amazing results. If you want to learn more about the benefits of my services, get in touch. 

We have been working with homeowners for many years. Together, we created a number of successful projects that helped my client’s either as a public adjuster or going to appraisal.  Homeowners claims are different as most property claims involve personal property and loss of use/rent.  To learn more about my clients and what we can do for you, contact us today.

Adjustment: Insurance companies genuinely want to settle property claims with you in this process as they are in charge of the adjustment. Insurance companies will send adjusters (2-3) or even consultants to provide guesstimates (payment guides). In simpler terms, the policy states that the insurance company will send an adjuster who works for them to determine how much money they think they owe you. When put in those terms, it feels like everyone is starting at a disadvantage.

Adjusters essentially make educated guesses on how much to offer you, excessively depreciate the value, subtract your deductible, and provide you with the remaining amount known as the Actual Cash Value (ACV). It's a plan that benefits the insurance companies but not you. Insurance company adjusters do not work for you. They can only serve their one master, which is not you, the insured. On the other hand, public adjusters exclusively work for the insured.

In some states, such as Texas, contractors are not allowed to negotiate with insurance adjusters about the scope or price; they can only show the damage. Contrary to popular belief, insurance companies are not interested in the insured's opinion regarding a claim. However, they will listen to public adjusters as they are licensed to adjust claims with the insurance company. Why would you engage in a battle with an insurance company without any help? Face it, you don't know all the rules of claims, which puts you at a disadvantage from the start. Get help and hire a public adjuster from the beginning. Would you make any other significant decision without expert advice if it was available? The answer is no.

In certain cases, some claims go beyond the adjustment process. This is where appraisal comes into play, providing the insured (you) with a much better opportunity to showcase the damage and negotiate their claim. However, this can only be achieved if qualified appraisers are hired to assist. The appraisal of an insurance claim still adheres to the insurance policy and its standards. Unfortunately, many contractors lack the necessary knowledge, training, and licensing to effectively navigate the appraisal process in their favor. They, too, are unfamiliar with the rules.

When insurance companies request an appraisal, they are attempting to gain an advantage over you. They will not hire an incompetent person or a consultant who lacks knowledge in appraisal. Neither should you, the insured! Insurance companies hope that you will hire an individual who is overwhelmed or lacks knowledge of the appraisal process, thus compromising your chances of a successful claim. However, Jones & Associates Appraisers is neither incompetent nor inexperienced. We possess the expertise and knowledge required to handle the appraisal process effectively.

The appraisal process is where the phrase "pay to play" truly applies. As the insured, you cannot afford to make a hiring mistake as there are no do-overs. Insurance companies believe that utilizing the appraisal process will expedite the claims resolution and reduce their overall exposure to litigation, providing a fair assessment of the loss scenario.

Now, the question arises: is it worth it to challenge the insurance company? When faced with an unfair settlement offer or a denial, it is crucial to remember that you have rights as the insured. Challenging the insurance company through the appraisal process gives you the opportunity to seek a fair evaluation of your claim's value. It is an avenue for negotiation and resolution without resorting to costly and time-consuming litigation.

Appraisal allows you, the insured, to eliminate the adjusters previously sent by the insurance company. Either you or the insurer can request appraisal, and it must be done in writing to the other party. This initiates a time limit as specified in the policy. Appraisal enables you to hire and pay for your own representative in this process, while the insurance company is obligated to have someone who does not work for them act as their eyes and voice. Policy provisions require appraisers to be independent and competent, making it increasingly difficult to be an appraiser without being a licensed insurance adjuster (although not required).

The two appointed appraisers must agree on a third party, an umpire, to serve as an impartial arbiter. Just like the appraisers, the umpire must also be independent and competent. Aside from choosing your own appraiser, the selection of the umpire is equally important. The cost of the umpire and any associated process is split 50/50, adhering to the "pay to play" principle. You pay for your appraiser, the insurance company pays for theirs, and both sides contribute equally to the umpire's fees. The insurance company is more than willing to spend money to fight against you, but are you prepared to stand up for your rights?

Appraisal is designed to expedite the claim process and resolve disputes in a timely manner. However, it's important to remember that insurance companies cannot always escape the habit of delay, delay, delay, even in the appraisal process. They still hope that you will become frustrated and give up. Insurance companies are not fond of appraisal as it removes their control, and they attempt to hinder and block the process at every step. Appraisal is a binding agreement for both parties, similar to a jury award.

For expert assistance with your appraisal needs, call Jones & Associates Appraisers at 940-367-4632.

When it comes to resolving disputes with insurance companies, some may simply want to be sued, while others genuinely need it. In such cases, it is imperative to hire an attorney who can guide you through the process. However, it's important to note that simply disagreeing with the insurance company on the scope or price of your claim is not a sufficient reason to file a lawsuit.

Even in the appraisal process, I must emphasize the need for an attorney. If the insurance company refuses to participate in appraisal or agree on an umpire, you may require the services of an attorney to compel them to fulfill their obligations. It is crucial to hire an attorney who specializes in insurance law, as this is a highly specialized field that requires expertise and experience.

Remember, filing a lawsuit should not be taken lightly, and it is crucial to consult with an attorney who can provide proper guidance based on the specific circumstances of your case. They will assess the merits of your claim, explore alternative dispute resolution methods, and advise you on the best course of action.

Please keep in mind that the above information is not intended as legal advice but as general information. Consulting with a qualified attorney is essential to address your individual needs and circumstances effectively.