​Property owners and managers have much to worry about and balance! Insurance claims should not be one more thing on the list to cause additional stress but should be settled fairly, efficiently, and according to policy. Below are three areas of misconduct that have been done by insurance companies against business property claims and how to avoid them.
 
Please note that ‘public adjusters’, such as our licensed and experienced team at Morgan Elite Specialist Services, work solely on behalf of policyholders. ‘Insurance adjusters’ work for insurance companies.

1. Requests to file different claims: Be wary of insurance adjusters who try to persuade policy holders into filing a claim for reasons other than the original statement. For instance, we experienced an insurance adjuster who adamantly suggested that a policyholder file a claim for vandalism with absolutely no proof of such a cause. The original claim was due to hail and wind damage.
2. Request to file multiple claims: While sometimes necessary, some insurance companies and adjusters are using this method as another reason to defer their contractual obligations. If damage to property is a result of only one policy covered incident, do not agree to file two separate claims at the insistence of an insurance adjuster.   It is always best to consult with a public adjuster on the necessity of these requests! Two claims are not commonly required and once agreed upon, require policyholders to pay double deductibles which often leaves scarce money for repairs.
3. Underestimating cost:  Unfortunately, some insurance companies and adjusters will lowball their estimates with rates that do not mirror current market price for materials or labor. Make sure to get multiple estimates from different contractors or specialists in order to get a fair median price that can logically be agreed upon.

These actual examples greatly influenced policy holders to contact Morgan Elite Specialist Services and acquire our assistance. We understand that many insurance agents, adjusters, and companies are ethical and do not behave in such a manner. We also know, however, that these situations can and do happen and there is help!
Our knowledgeable public adjusters always work on behalf of policy holders and have their best interests at heart. Please contact us with any questions you may have and free consultations and inspections are offered!

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No one would ever want to experience a burglar breaking into their home and stealing their belongings! Unfortunately, burglaries can happen to anyone at any time. Here are some precautions that will help protect against such an alarming event:

• Security systems:  Most burglaries occur between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. when most people are typically out for the day. Installing a security system and/or cameras deter the vast majority of burglars and will help keep your property safe while you are away or sleeping. Homeowners with security systems in place may also qualify for property insurance discounts.

 

• Front doors: Astonishingly, about one third of burglars are able to break in using the front door! Inspect locks to make sure they are adequate and working properly and make sure the door is securely locked whenever you leave the property. 

 

• Endorsements or separate insurance policies: Purchase endorsements or additional policies for metals, jewelry, paper bills, and precious jewels. Although insurance policies vary, money and jewelry are capped out to a minimal amount of money on basic policies. Correspond with your insurance provider to ensure protection for priceless heirlooms or special pieces of jewelry.

  

• Coverage: In most cases, damage to a home as a result of burglary is typically covered for home insurance policy holders.  It is always important to review your policy with

              your agent to verify coverage in such events.
 
 
Experiencing a burglary is distressing. Our team of licensed and professional public adjusters at Morgan Elite Specialist Services can alleviate the burden of filing a claim associated with burglary and theft while securing fair and adequate compensation according to policy. Give us a call! 

RELATED LINKS: www.messtx.com ​
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The various aspects of an insurance claim often catch policyholders off guard, regardless of how many times they have filed a claim. The following information will explain what to expect and offer suggestions to avoid common problems and ease the claim process.
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• The insurance company: Whatever the cause of loss, contact your insurance company immediately and be as detailed as possible concerning the reason for the claim and the resulting damage. The insurance company will explain applicable loss coverage per the situation and policy and schedule an inspection. Our licensed public adjusters at Morgan Elite Specialist Services will provide a professional second opinion if there is any discrepancy concerning coverage.

 

• Evidence: Make sure to record and date your own documentation pertaining to the loss. Take pictures, note inspections by licensed professionals, or file anything that can physically prove the loss. Confirmation of the state of the property prior to the damage is also helpful. Sadly, many claims are being denied or underpaid because adjusters are stating other causes for damage rather than the reasons for the claim. Morgan Elite Specialist Services can help!

 

• Quotes: Get quotes from multiple contractors, the more the better! This will help insurance companies to accurately indemnify policy holders.

 

• Recoverable depreciation: Insurance companies will often pay a portion of a claim settlement up front and hold the remaining funds until the work has been completed. If this is the case, have contractors perform work in a timely manner and issue a certificate of completion to you or the insurance company as soon as possible.

 

• Supplements: Supplementation may be required if additional damages are noticed during repairs as a result of the same loss. Call Morgan Elite Specialist Services for clarification.

 

• Public adjusters: Morgan Elite Specialist Services is a licensed and experienced team of public adjusters who take the headache out of filing and managing insurance claims! We understand the laws by which insurance companies are required to adhere and ensure policyholders are treated fairly, ethically, and according to policy which is a contractual obligation that should be upheld by all parties involved. As always, we offer free consultations and inspections.   

RELATED LINKS: www.messtx.com
© 2017 MESSTX.com

Following severe weather, it is common to see an influx of contractors in areas with an abundance of housing or development. These ‘storm chasers’ solicit residents or property owners for any needed repairs as a result of the storm. While we do not discredit all contractors who practice in this way, we do warn consumers to be cautious when hiring these types of workers. While some are honest and do reputable work, there are others, unfortunately, who are there to make quick money for mediocre work. The following are some guidelines that will help you employ the right person for the job!
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• Research: We advise to at least find basic information about the company that is soliciting such as the city and state of their home base and their reviews. The internet is an endless source of information and can validate credibility. If the company is not on the internet or does not have any online consumer reviews, be wary of signing any contract with the solicitor.

• Pricing: Watch for pricing that seems too good to be true. We all want a good deal, sure, but do not replace it for quality workmanship. Less than reputable contractors will offer a ‘steal’ which often results in poor craftsmanship and additional cost in the long run. Keep an eye on pricing for needed material and labor costs to do said work which will also help from being overcharged.

• State licensing: According to recent Texas law, roofers must be licensed and have general liability insurance in order to conduct business in the state of Texas. Their licenses will be revoked if any felonious acts are committed and must be renewed yearly. This new law will help in determining reputable contractors and weeding out the bad apples of the bunch. 

• Seek professional advice: Call Morgan Elite Specialist Services! We work and communicate closely with the best contractors in the state of Texas. Our team of professional and certified public adjusters can assist in determining if any damage is insurance related and ensure your insurance company is accommodating per policy. We offer free inspections and consultations

RELATED LINKS: www.messtx.com
© 2017 MESSTX.com