If you are like most people, there are few things you find more stressful than the prospect of dealing with your insurance company. The insurance adjusters do not have your best interests in mind; and, while they may seem helpful, you never really know if they are telling you the whole story or explaining all of the options you have available.
At Saavedra Goodwin, we devote a significant portion of our practice to representing homeowners and business owners in insurance claims and claim-related disputes. We know what it is like for most people trying to navigate the insurance claim process, and we also know the strategies insurance adjusters use to try to minimize the value of policyholders’ claims.
If you are dealing with an insurance adjuster for a property damage claim in South Florid, here are five tips to keep in mind:
Tip #1: Know the Terms of Your Insurance Policy.
We know it can be painful, but if you need to file a claim it will be worthwhile to at least try to familiarize yourself with the basic terms of your policy. What types of claims are covered? Are you entitled to full replacement value for personal property? What are your policy limits? Knowing the coverage to which you are entitled can be extremely helpful when you receive vague or inconsistent answers from an adjuster.
Tip #2: Know the Value of Your Claim.
You should not rely on your insurance company to tell you how much it owes. When dealing with an insurance claim, it is important that you independently assess the full extent of your covered losses. If your home or business suffered significant properly damage, hiring a public adjuster to help with your claim may be a good option.
Tip #3: Get It in Writing.
When dealing with an insurance adjuster, try to keep your communications in writing. You will want a record of everything that has unfolded in the event that you need to initiate a dispute, and requesting written answers may help dissuade the adjuster from providing misleading information. By communicating in writing, you can avoid the high-pressure settlement tactics that some insurance adjusters use as well.
Tip #4: Avoid Settling Too Early.
While it may be tempting to accept an early settlement offer – especially if you don’t yet know the full extent of your losses – you should avoid settling (or signing anything) until you are confident that the settlement amount will fully cover your insured losses.
Tip #5: Seek Experienced Help.
Finally, the best way to protect yourself when dealing with an insurance adjuster is to seek experienced legal representation. At Saavedra Goodwin, we can deal with your adjuster on your behalf, and we can help you avoid settling for less than the full amount to which you are legally entitled.
Speak with a Fort Lauderdale Property Damage Attorney at Saavedra | Goodwin
If you would like more information about protecting your rights during an insurance claim or dispute, please contact us to arrange an initial consultation. To discuss your claim with one of our experienced property damage attorneys, call (954) 928-9568 or inquire online today.
