Insurance Claim Repair FAQ

Your first priority is safety. After ensuring everyone is safe, follow these critical steps:

Immediate Safety Measures:

• Evacuate if necessary - If structural damage poses safety risks
• Secure the property - Board up broken windows, cover roof openings with tarps
• Turn off utilities - Gas, electricity, and water if damage is extensive
• Prevent further damage - Remove water, protect undamaged areas

Document Everything:

• Take extensive photos and videos - Both interior and exterior damage
• Document personal property damage - Individual items with receipts if available
• Make detailed written notes - Date, time, weather conditions, damage descriptions
• Keep all receipts - Emergency repairs, temporary housing, cleanup supplies

Remember: Emergency repairs to prevent further damage are typically covered by insurance, even before claim approval. Keep detailed records of all emergency work performed.

Yes, you not only can but should make necessary emergency repairs to prevent further damage to your property.

What Constitutes Emergency Repairs:

• Roof tarping - To prevent water intrusion
• Board-up services - Broken windows and doors
• Water extraction - To prevent mold and additional damage
• Temporary structural supports - If needed for safety

Important Requirements:

• Document before repairs - Photos and videos of damage before any work
• Keep all receipts - Materials and labor costs
• Use reasonable costs - Insurance covers reasonable emergency repair expenses
• Notify your insurance company - Inform them of emergency repairs made

Allied Emergency Services provides 24/7 emergency response for storm damage. Our emergency services include professional documentation that meets insurance requirements while securing your property. Call (800) 792-0212 for immediate assistance.

Understanding the insurance claim process helps ensure a successful outcome. Here's the complete step-by-step process:

Step 1: Report the Claim (0-48 Hours)

• Contact your insurance company - Report claim via phone, online, or mobile app
• Provide basic information - Policy number, date/time of damage, brief description
• Request claim number - Keep this for all future communications
• Ask about emergency repair coverage - Confirm what's covered immediately

Step 2: Initial Documentation (Days 1-3)

• Complete damage inventory - Room-by-room assessment with photos
• Gather policy documents - Review coverage limits and deductibles
• Contact restoration contractor - Get professional assessment and estimate
• Secure temporary housing - If property is uninhabitable

Step 3: Adjuster Inspection (Days 3-7)

• Schedule adjuster visit - Coordinate with your schedule
• Be present during inspection - Point out all damage areas
• Have contractor present - Professional assessment during inspection
• Discuss scope of damage - Ensure nothing is missed

Step 4: Estimate Review (Days 7-14)

• Receive adjuster's estimate - Review line by line
• Compare contractor estimates - Look for discrepancies
• Request explanations - For any exclusions or low amounts
• Document disagreements - Prepare for potential negotiations

Step 5: Settlement Negotiation (Days 14-21)

• Review settlement offer - Understand all components
• Negotiate if necessary - Use contractor expertise for support
• Request supplemental estimates - For items initially missed
• Accept final settlement - Once agreement is reached

Step 6: Restoration Work (Varies)

• Choose your contractor - You have the legal right to choose
• Review work contracts - Ensure scope matches insurance approval
• Monitor progress - Stay involved throughout restoration
• Handle change orders - For additional damage discovered during work

Step 7: Final Inspection & Closure (Final week)

• Conduct final walkthrough - With contractor and adjuster if required
• Submit final invoices - All restoration work completed
• Receive final payment - Complete claim settlement
• Close claim officially - Confirm with insurance company

The timeline for insurance claims varies significantly based on damage extent, complexity, and responsiveness of all parties involved.

Typical Timeline Ranges:

• Simple claims (minor damage): 2-4 weeks from report to settlement
• Standard claims (moderate damage): 4-8 weeks total process
• Complex claims (major damage): 2-4 months or longer
• Disputed claims: 3-6 months with potential legal involvement

Factors That Affect Timeline:

• Catastrophic events - Major storms create backlogs
• Damage complexity - Multiple systems affected take longer
• Documentation quality - Poor documentation causes delays
• Contractor availability - Scheduling can extend timelines
• Settlement disputes - Negotiations add time

How to Expedite Your Claim:

• Report promptly - Within 24-48 hours
• Provide complete documentation - Thorough photos and inventory
• Respond quickly - To all insurance company requests
• Work with experienced contractors - Professionals know the process
• Maintain organized records - Easy access to all claim materials

Allied Emergency Services has streamlined processes that help expedite claims. Our experience working with insurance companies and understanding their requirements helps move your claim through the system efficiently. For faster claim processing, call (800) 792-0212.

Understanding your coverage is crucial for successful claims. Most standard homeowners policies provide extensive storm damage coverage under specific perils.

Covered Storm Damage Types:

• Wind damage - Roof damage, siding damage, window breakage from straight-line winds
• Hail damage - Impact damage to roofing, siding, windows, and personal property
• Lightning strikes - Direct strikes causing fire, electrical, or structural damage
• Tornado damage - Comprehensive coverage for tornado-related destruction
• Ice storm damage - Weight of ice causing structural damage
• Falling trees - Trees or branches falling due to wind, ice, or lightning

Additional Covered Expenses:

• Water damage from roof penetration - Interior damage caused by storm-damaged roof
• Emergency repairs - Temporary protective measures
• Debris removal - Cleanup and disposal of storm debris
• Personal property - Belongings damaged by covered perils
• Additional living expenses (ALE) - Temporary housing if home is uninhabitable
• Code upgrade costs - Bringing repairs up to current building codes

Property Components Typically Covered:

• Roof systems - Shingles, underlayment, decking, gutters, downspouts
• Exterior walls - Siding, stucco, brick, windows, doors
• Interior damage - Drywall, flooring, ceilings from water intrusion
• HVAC systems - Damage from debris or water infiltration
• Electrical systems - Lightning damage to wiring and fixtures
• Plumbing - Pipes damaged by falling debris or freezing

Coverage specifics vary by policy and insurance company. Review your declarations page and policy language carefully. Allied Emergency Services helps identify all covered damage during our assessments. Call (800) 792-0212 for professional damage evaluation.

The type of coverage you have significantly impacts your claim settlement amount. Understanding ACV versus Replacement Cost is crucial for proper expectations.

Actual Cash Value (ACV) Coverage:

• Definition - Replacement cost minus depreciation
• Calculation - Age and condition reduce the payout amount
• Example - 15-year-old roof receives payment for current value, not new roof cost
• Lower premiums - Less expensive insurance option
• Out-of-pocket costs - Higher expenses for property owner

Replacement Cost Coverage:

• Definition - Full cost to replace with new materials of like kind and quality
• No depreciation - Age and condition don't reduce payout
• Example - 15-year-old damaged roof receives payment for full new roof replacement
• Higher premiums - More expensive insurance option
• Better protection - Lower out-of-pocket costs for property owner

Replacement Cost Settlement Process:

1. Initial payment - Insurance pays ACV amount initially
2. Complete repairs - Work must be completed by licensed contractor
3. Submit invoices - Provide proof of actual repair costs
4. Final payment - Insurance pays remaining replacement cost amount

Real-World Example:

Scenario: Hail damages your roof. Replacement cost is $25,000. Your roof is 10 years old.

• ACV Settlement: $25,000 - $10,000 depreciation = $15,000 payment
• Replacement Cost Settlement: $25,000 full payment (minus deductible)
• Your cost difference: $10,000 out-of-pocket with ACV vs. $0 with Replacement Cost

Allied Emergency Services works with both ACV and Replacement Cost policies. We help maximize your settlement regardless of coverage type and explain all payment processes clearly. For coverage questions and claim support, call (800) 792-0212.

Allied Emergency Services serves as your restoration contractor, working collaboratively with insurance companies while advocating for proper repairs and fair settlements.

Our Role in the Insurance Process:

• Professional damage assessment - Comprehensive evaluation of all storm damage
• Detailed documentation - Photos, measurements, and written reports for insurance
• Accurate repair estimates - Line-item estimates using industry-standard pricing
• Adjuster meetings - Present during inspections to ensure nothing is missed
• Scope review - Compare insurance estimates with actual repair requirements
• Supplemental claims - Submit additional damage discovered during repairs

What We DON'T Do (Important Legal Distinction):

• We are NOT insurance adjusters - We don't determine coverage or settlement amounts
• We don't negotiate your policy - That's between you and your insurance company
• We don't guarantee claim approval - Coverage decisions are made by your insurer
• We don't provide legal advice - We focus on construction and restoration

How We Support Your Claim:

• Technical expertise - Understanding of building systems and storm damage
• Industry knowledge - Familiarity with insurance procedures and requirements
• Professional documentation - High-quality photos and detailed reports
• Code compliance - Ensuring repairs meet current building standards
• Quality workmanship - Proper repairs that satisfy insurance final inspections

Communication Process:

1. Initial assessment - We provide detailed damage evaluation
2. Insurance estimate - We prepare comprehensive repair estimates
3. Adjuster coordination - We schedule and attend inspection meetings
4. Scope comparison - We review insurance adjuster findings
5. Work authorization - We begin repairs once you approve and coverage is confirmed
6. Progress updates - We keep you informed throughout the restoration

Our experience with insurance processes helps streamline your claim while ensuring quality repairs. For professional restoration services and insurance claim support, call (800) 792-0212.

You have the absolute legal right to choose your own contractor for insurance claim repairs. Your insurance company cannot require you to use their preferred vendors or network contractors.

Your Legal Rights:

• Contractor selection - You choose who performs the repairs
• Multiple estimates - You can obtain estimates from any licensed contractors
• Quality standards - You can insist on proper materials and workmanship
• Direct payment - You can arrange payment methods with your chosen contractor

Insurance Company Preferred Vendors:

• Pre-negotiated rates - Often lower pricing for insurance company benefit
• Volume discounts - May not reflect quality or proper materials
• Limited warranty - May offer shorter warranty periods
• Fast processing - Streamlined paperwork but potentially rushed work

Advantages of Choosing Your Own Contractor:

• Quality focus - Contractor works for you, not the insurance company
• Local reputation - Accountable to local community and referrals
• Comprehensive repairs - More likely to identify and address all damage
• Better warranties - Typically offer longer warranty periods
• Personal service - Direct communication and customized solutions

What to Tell Your Insurance Company:

If pressured to use preferred vendors, you can state:

"I am exercising my legal right to choose my own contractor for these repairs. I have selected [Contractor Name] as my restoration contractor. Please work directly with them for all estimates and coordination."

Important Considerations:

• Licensed contractors only - Ensure proper licensing and insurance
• Local reputation - Check references and Better Business Bureau ratings
• Insurance experience - Choose contractors familiar with insurance procedures
• Detailed estimates - Comprehensive line-item estimates for insurance review

Allied Emergency Services has extensive experience working with all major insurance companies while maintaining our commitment to quality repairs and customer satisfaction. We handle all insurance coordination while focusing on proper restoration. Call (800) 792-0212 to discuss your restoration needs.

Understanding your deductible is crucial for budgeting and claim expectations. Deductibles represent your portion of the loss before insurance coverage begins.

Types of Deductibles:

• Standard deductible - Fixed dollar amount (e.g., $1,000, $2,500, $5,000)
• Percentage deductible - Percentage of dwelling coverage (e.g., 1%, 2%, 5%)
• Wind/hail deductible - Separate higher deductible for wind and hail damage
• Named storm deductible - Special deductible for named hurricanes/storms

How Deductibles Apply:

• Per occurrence - One deductible per storm event, regardless of multiple damage areas
• Subtracted from settlement - Insurance pays total approved costs minus deductible
• Your responsibility - You pay the contractor directly for deductible portion
• Both ACV and replacement cost - Deductible applies to both payment phases

Deductible Examples:

Scenario 1: $1,000 standard deductible, $15,000 in approved storm damage

• Insurance pays: $14,000
• You pay: $1,000 deductible
• Total repair cost: $15,000

Scenario 2: 2% percentage deductible, $300,000 dwelling coverage, $20,000 damage

• Deductible calculation: $300,000 × 2% = $6,000
• Insurance pays: $14,000
• You pay: $6,000 deductible

Wind/Hail Deductible Considerations:

• Higher amounts - Often 1-5% of dwelling coverage instead of fixed amount
• Regional variations - More common in areas with frequent severe weather
• Separate from standard - Different deductible for wind/hail versus other perils
• Trigger requirements - May require minimum wind speeds to activate

When Deductibles Don't Apply:

• Emergency repairs - Some policies waive deductibles for emergency protective measures
• Additional living expenses - ALE coverage may have separate or no deductible
• Debris removal - Sometimes covered without deductible application

Allied Emergency Services clearly explains all costs, including your deductible responsibility, before beginning any work. We provide transparent pricing and work within your insurance settlement parameters. Call (800) 792-0212 for detailed cost discussions.

Low insurance estimates are common and can often be addressed through proper documentation and professional contractor involvement.

Common Reasons for Low Estimates:

• Missed damage - Adjuster overlooked certain damaged areas or components
• Inadequate scope - Repair scope doesn't include all necessary work
• Outdated pricing - Estimate uses old pricing or doesn't reflect local market rates
• Quality differences - Estimate assumes lower-grade materials or methods
• Code requirements - Doesn't include necessary code upgrades or compliance work

Steps to Address Low Estimates:

1. Get professional contractor estimate - Detailed line-item comparison with insurance estimate
2. Document discrepancies - Written list of differences with explanations
3. Request re-inspection - Ask adjuster to return and review missed items
4. Provide supporting documentation - Photos, measurements, and technical specifications
5. Submit supplemental claim - Formal request for additional coverage
6. Escalate if necessary - Request supervisor review or file complaint

Documentation to Provide:

• Detailed contractor estimates - Multiple estimates if significant discrepancies exist
• Technical specifications - Building code requirements and material specifications
• Local pricing data - Market rate documentation for labor and materials
• Additional damage photos - Any damage not included in original assessment
• Expert opinions - Professional assessments from qualified contractors

Your Rights During Disputes:

• Request detailed explanation - Insurance must explain estimate basis
• Obtain multiple contractor bids - Use different estimates for comparison
• Independent adjuster - Request different adjuster for re-evaluation
• Appraisal process - Formal dispute resolution process if agreement can't be reached
• State insurance commissioner - File complaints for unfair practices

Appraisal Process Overview:

1. Invoke appraisal clause - Written request to insurance company
2. Select appraisers - Each party chooses their own qualified appraiser
3. Choose umpire - Neutral third party selected by appraisers
4. Submit estimates - Both appraisers provide detailed damage assessments
5. Reach agreement - Majority decision becomes binding settlement

Allied Emergency Services has extensive experience identifying missed damage and supporting clients through estimate disputes. Our detailed assessments and professional documentation help maximize fair settlements. Call (800) 792-0212 for expert claim support.

Understanding common denial reasons helps you avoid mistakes that could jeopardize your claim. Most denials can be prevented with proper preparation and documentation.

Top Reasons for Claim Denials:

• Late reporting - Failing to report claims within required timeframes
• Pre-existing damage - Damage that existed before the storm event
• Maintenance issues - Damage attributed to poor maintenance or wear and tear
• Insufficient documentation - Lack of photos, receipts, or damage evidence
• Non-covered perils - Damage from excluded causes like floods or earthquakes
• Policy exclusions - Specific items or circumstances excluded in your policy
• Misrepresentation - Inaccurate information provided during claim process

Prevention Strategies:

1. Prompt Reporting:

• Report within 24-48 hours - Don't wait for complete damage assessment
• Use multiple methods - Phone, online, and written notification
• Document notification - Keep records of when and how you reported
• Follow up - Confirm receipt and obtain claim numbers

2. Comprehensive Documentation:

• Pre-storm photos - Maintain updated photos of your property condition
• Post-storm documentation - Extensive photos and videos of all damage
• Weather reports - Official weather service reports for your area
• Professional assessments - Contractor evaluations and written reports

3. Maintenance Records:

• Keep receipts - All maintenance, repairs, and improvements
• Annual inspections - Professional roof and system inspections
• Photo documentation - Before and after photos of maintenance work
• Contractor records - Contact information and work details

4. Accurate Information:

• Factual reporting - Provide only verified information
• Complete disclosure - Don't omit relevant details
• Consistent statements - Ensure all communications align
• Written records - Document all conversations and agreements

5. Policy Understanding:

• Review coverage annually - Understand what's covered and excluded
• Know your deductibles - Standard, wind/hail, and percentage amounts
• Coverage limits - Dwelling, personal property, and ALE limits
• Special conditions - Named storm triggers, waiting periods

Red Flags That Lead to Denials:

• Delayed reporting - Waiting weeks or months to file claims
• Inconsistent damage patterns - Damage that doesn't match weather events
• Prior unreported damage - Evidence of earlier damage not previously claimed
• Maintenance neglect - Clear evidence of poor property maintenance
• Exaggerated claims - Inflated damage descriptions or costs

Allied Emergency Services helps prevent claim denials through professional damage assessment, proper documentation, and experienced claim support. Our systematic approach addresses common denial triggers before they become problems. Call (800) 792-0212 for professional claim preparation.