Texan’s have experienced quite a variety of weather activity lately including rain, wind, hail, tornadoes, and even flooding in some regions with more severe weather predicted for this week. Due to these weather patterns and the ensuing damage, many people are filing claims with their insurance providers. The claim process is often daunting and complicated so here are a few tips to help ensure a smooth transaction:
Take pictures: If possible, take pictures during the storm as well as all resulting damage to help confirm the actuality of the event. Insurance companies are less likely to deny claims with pictures and will not rely solely on the opinions of their adjusters when inspecting property.
Contractors: Be wary of roofers and contractors who state they have an in-house public adjuster or offer to file and negotiate a claim on your behalf. Public adjusters can only work for policyholders through contract or be referred by contractors. Any other dynamic is typically illegal. If a contractor’s insists that he/she can file or negotiate your claim, they are wrong.
Please note: Only three parties are legally allowed to negotiate property claims in the state of Texas: the insured, a licensed Texas public insurance adjuster, or a licensed insurance adjuster from the insurance company.
Insurance Adjusters: Surprisingly, we have encountered a number of insurance adjusters falsely claiming to have Texas licensing. Be very cautious of these claims as it is illegal to operate as an adjuster in the state of Texas without proper licensing.
Whether an adjuster making a site visit or a ‘desk’ adjuster on the phone, please request their Texas adjusting licensing number! If they refuse, notify the Texas Department of Insurance at 1-800-252-3439. Also contact your insurance company, explain the problem, and request that a new adjuster be assigned to your claim.
Our Texas licensed public adjusters at Morgan Elite Specialist Services are proud of their ability to successfully assist policy holders to navigate the rocky insurance claim process. Our main concern is protecting policy holder interests and ensuring fair and adequate compensation for incurred losses. As always, we offer free consultations and inspections.
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