Questions
What policyholders ask us
Short answers. Your policy and the law that applies decide the details.
Is a denial final?
No. It is the insurer's position, not a ruling. Many denials change after a second inspection, a written demand or appraisal.
The insurer paid part of it. Can I dispute the rest?
Usually. You can often keep a check for the undisputed part and argue the remainder. Do not sign a release or a final settlement first.
What is the difference between you and a public adjuster?
A public adjuster prices and negotiates a claim, usually for a share of it. A lawyer can do that too and can also read the policy against the law, invoke appraisal and go to court. The office is not a public adjuster.
Do you work for insurance companies?
No. The office represents policyholders only, so there is no conflict with the company across the table.
What is appraisal?
Many property policies let either side ask for it when you agree the loss is covered but not on what it costs. Each side names an appraiser and an umpire settles what they cannot. It is quicker than court and not right for every claim.
What about condos and the association's policy?
Two policies may apply: the association's for the building and yours for the unit's contents and improvements. We ask for both and find which one owes what.
How are you paid?
Most claims are taken on contingency, with no fee unless money is recovered. Case costs, such as filing fees, inspections and expert reports, are separate, and the written agreement says whether you owe them if nothing is recovered.
Should I be worried about my premium?
Disputing a claim is not making a new one. What a company may do about rates or renewal depends on your policy and the law, and we can look at that with you.
Do I need papers before I call?
Nothing. Call, text or fill in the short form. If we go on, a secure link takes the papers.