You were Denied, now What?
Posted on February 21st, 2012
Unfortunately, we hear this story too often – My claim got denied!
Do you know the steps you need to take when you get a claim denied?
We found this Youtube video that shows an example of extensive property damage and the response from the insurance company. We did not make this video, and cannot certify the authenticity of the facts; however, it clearly demonstrates a point that a professional Public Adjuster can be very helpful in reponding to denials of insurance claims and going at it alone is a tough battle.
If you made a claim on your homeowners insurance and it has been denied, don’t give up. The following are a list of things for you to do, in order to keep your claim active and possibly reverse the decision.
1. Don’t take NO as the final decision – You stand a good chance of winning if you fight back. A very small percentage of claimants inquire about the decision when it is denied. However, a high percentage of the ones that fight back get positive results.
2. Make sure you get it in writing – Get a written explanation of the reasons for rejecting the claim. It is a legal requirement in the State of Florida to have a written explanation of why they are denying your claim.
3. Call a Public Adjuster – A Public Adjuster can assist you in fighting your denial. They will check your policy and look for anything that does not add up. Checking your policy against the reason for denial can help with your appeal.
A Public Adjuster will also check for claim processing errors. For instance, if you filed your claim form incorrectly, an insurance company may hold it against you and refuse to pay. A Public Adjuster will help you correct these errors and resubmit your claim.
When you hire a Public Adjuster, many times they may increase the amount you will receive from your claim. They charge a small percentage of the claim recovery and do not get paid unless you get paid.
A Public Adjuster is an expert who works exclusively for you the policyholder. So it is in your best interest to contact a public adjuster at Stellar Public Adjusting to discuss your claim. Less than 10% of people who have their claim denied inquire about a rejected claim.
Over 50% of the ones that do inquire and hire Stellar Public Adjusting get favorable results.
Did you receive a denial from your homeowner’s insurance company? Call Stellar Public Adjusting at 305-396-9110.
Tags: denial, denial letter, insurance claim
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Think you have a roof leak?
Posted on February 3rd, 2012
Do you know the steps you need to take to detect where the problem stems from?
Detection is the first step in solving this problem.
Often the result of getting a roof leak can lead to a substantial damage to your home and the loss of irreplaceable valuables. The structural integrity can be compromised when there is a leak that is concealed in the roof leading to costly repair. In order to avoid costly roof replacement, leaks need to be both prevented and or repaired if detected.
To avoid extensive damage, roofs must be inspected to detect roof leaks. In colder climates, this must be done before and after winter.
Take a look at this Youtube video that demonstrates the extent to which a small leak can create a large problem. Here you’ll see what was manifesting itself as a small puddle to the homeowner, was actually causing significant damage to areas that were not visible.
This next video is a great example of easy fixes and leak prevention.
Most roofing companies offer free roof evaluations and an estimate listing any recommended roof repair costs. Call Stellar Public Adjusting at 305-396-9110 for a free evaluation of your damages and a referral to reputable roofing company.
If you decide to do your own roof leak detection, be sure to start your check in the attic. Inspect your attic and pay close attention to evidence of water damage and moisture that is starting to cause problems. For example, the presence of mold can be a sign that you have a roof leak. Mold can be a sign of a leak or poor roofing ventilation. A ventilation problem should be addressed by a contractor to help you with your repair options.
After the inspection of your attic, you should take a look at your roof. Look for missing or damaged shingles, tears, fraying and excess deterioration. Other things to look for when a roof is on the decline, is cupping, buckling, and loss of granules. These are important signs that your roof needs major repair or replacement.
Frequently, flashing (material installed to prevent the passage of water into a structure from an angle or joint) issues are a reason for a leaking roof. When inspecting flashings connected to vents and chimneys, make sure they are tight. If any of the flashings are damaged or missing they will need to be replaced.
Debris that is blocking the roof watersheds or rain gutters can also cause a leaking roof. Debris can also cause water to lodge underneath roof shingles which can result in roof leaks and water damage. Similar water damage can also be caused by water flowing under the shingles due to blocked rain gutters overflow. Removing debris from your gutters and roof valleys should be a part of your regular roof maintenance to help avoid damage and leaks.
For more information on leak detection, call Stellar Public Adjusting at 305-396-9110
Resources:
http://homeimprovement.superpages.com/roofing/how-to-find-a-leak-in-a-roof.html
http://www.roofrepair.net/
http://www.roofing.com
Tags: insurance claims, leak detection, roof damage
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