When you file an insurance claim for property damage caused by fire, flood, or other incidents, it’s likely that your insurer will appoint a Loss Adjuster to handle the process. A Loss Adjuster is responsible for investigating and assessing the validity of your claim on behalf of the insurance company.
While Adjusters are expected to remain impartial, their allegiance may lead them to employ certain tactics to secure the best outcome for the insurance company. In this blog, we will provide valuable tricks, tips, and negotiation tactics to help you navigate the process of dealing with Loss Adjusters effectively.
Tips for dealing with Loss Adjusters
1. Review your policy
Before engaging with a Loss Adjuster, thoroughly familiarise yourself with your insurance policy. Remember, it’s a negotiation process. Take the time to carefully look through your insurance policy, paying close attention to the wording. Familiarise yourself with the clauses and coverage included in your policy, ensuring you are aware of your entitlements and limitations.
Having a clear understanding of the facts will not only help you in the negotiation process but also provide you with peace of mind throughout your claim.
2. Be cautious but helpful
When communicating with a Loss Adjuster, be mindful of your choice of words. Understand that everything you say whether in person or over the phone, can be used against you in their final assessment. Avoid providing incomplete or potentially detrimental information that could be used to lower the settlement offer, like failing to mention pre-existing damage.
3. Be prepared
As they tend to have a significant number of insurance claims to review on their books, Loss Adjusters strive for efficiency, so being well-prepared can streamline the claims process. Collect and organise any supporting evidence such as photographs or documents that substantiate your claim. Having these materials readily available will facilitate a smoother approval process and increase the likelihood of receiving the expected settlement amount.
4. Know your rights
While it’s customary to let the Loss Adjuster present the initial offer, keep in mind that the first offer may fall below your expectations. This is a normal occurrence, and you are under no obligation to accept it. Equip yourself with knowledge about your entitlements and calculate the amount you believe is fair. If the initial offer is inadequate, feel confident in challenging it. Point out the relevant sections of your policy to the Loss Adjuster, as they may not have thoroughly reviewed the details.
5. Be honest
Maintain unwavering honesty throughout your interactions with the Loss Adjuster. Providing accurate information allows them to make a fair assessment of your claim. Refrain from embellishing, exaggerating, or altering facts, as such actions are illegal and can jeopardise your case.
6. Be polite
Regardless of the circ*mstances or any perceived unfairness, always maintain a polite and respectful demeanour throughout the entire claims process. Making a claim can be a stressful and frustrating experience but try to remain calm and polite. Engaging in arguments or displaying aggression will not work in your favour, while you might feel the Loss Adjuster is not on your side, a professional and courteous approach can foster a more constructive dialogue.
Dealing with Loss Adjusters may initially seem daunting, but armed with these tricks, tips, and negotiation tactics, you can confidently navigate the process. Alternatively, to alleviate stress, consider enlisting the services of a Loss Assessor. A skilled Loss Assessor will expertly present your claim and negotiate with the Loss Adjuster on your behalf, ensuring your property is restored to the highest standard and maximising the potential for the best possible settlement. If you would like to learn more about how our Loss Assessors can assist you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a member of the Morgan Clark team.
Loss Adjuster tricks & tactics
While it’s important to emphasise that not all Loss Adjusters employ tricks or deceptive tactics, there are some strategies that can be used in the claims process. These techniques are aimed at minimising claim payouts or finding reasons to deny or undervalue claims. It’s essential to be aware of these tactics to protect your interests. Here are some that we’ve encountered over the years:
Initial Lowball Offers
Some Loss Adjusters may present initial settlement offers that seem lower than expected. While these offers are part of the negotiation process, it’s crucial not to accept them without proper assessment. This tactic aims to test your willingness to accept a reduced amount and potentially discourage further negotiations. Take the time to evaluate the adequacy of the offer, considering the full extent of your damages and seek independent evaluations if necessary.
Delays and Lengthy Processes
In some cases, a Loss Adjuster may intentionally prolong the claims process by requesting additional documentation or repeatedly asking for information. This delay tactic can create frustration and prompt claimants to settle for less just to speed up the process.
Time Pressure and Deadlines
On the other hand, some Loss Adjusters operate under time constraints, which can create a sense of urgency during the claims process. They may emphasise tight deadlines or the potential for delayed compensation to encourage quick settlements. Remember, it’s essential to carefully evaluate your claim and understand your entitlements before rushing into any decisions.
Policy Interpretation
Loss Adjusters possess in-depth knowledge of insurance policies and may interpret terms and conditions in a way that favours the insurer. This tactic aims to limit the scope of coverage and reduce the amount payable on the claim. By understanding the coverage and entitlements outlined in your policy, you can confidently challenge any misinterpretations that may arise during the claims process.
Comprehensive Damage Assessment
Loss Adjusters might attempt to categorise certain damages as unrelated or pre-existing, potentially undervaluing your claim. It’s important to provide detailed documentation of all damages, including photographs, videos, and written descriptions. Seeking expert opinions or assessments can help counter any attempts to downplay the severity of your losses.
By informing you about these potential strategies, our aim is to empower you with the knowledge to confidently navigate the claims process.
What should you not say to a Loss Adjuster?
When dealing with a Loss Adjuster during the insurance claims process, it’s important to be mindful of what you say. Certain statements or remarks could potentially harm your claim or be used against you. In this blog, we’ll highlight key things you should avoid saying to a Loss Adjuster to protect your interests and ensure a fair outcome:
Incomplete or Inaccurate Information
Provide the Loss Adjuster with accurate and complete information about the damages sustained. Avoid withholding details or providing incomplete information that could be used against you later in the claims process. Be thorough in documenting the extent of the damage and any related expenses.
Do not admit fault
While it may be natural to feel remorseful about the situation, refrain from apologising or accepting blame for the incident. Loss Adjusters are trained to gather information and assess liability, and these statements can be misinterpreted as an admission of fault and may negatively impact your claim. Stick to providing objective information and let the Loss Adjuster conduct their investigation to determine liability.
Do not speculate or guess
It’s essential to only provide information that you are certain about and can support with evidence. Avoid speculation or guessing when responding to the Loss Adjuster’s inquiries. Providing false or misleading information can have severe consequences, potentially leading to the denial of your claim or even legal repercussions. Speculation can be used by the Loss Adjuster to challenge the validity of your claim or minimise the compensation offered. If you’re unsure about certain details, it’s perfectly acceptable to say that you don’t have the information at hand and will provide it later.
Do not agree to recorded statements without preparation
Loss Adjusters may request to record your statements as part of their investigation. While it is generally acceptable to comply, it’s advisable to be well-prepared beforehand. Take the time to gather your thoughts, review your claim details, and even seek legal advice if necessary. This ensures that your statements accurately reflect your position and protect your interests.
Do not discuss the settlement amount early on
Avoid engaging in discussions about settlement figures or accepting offers prematurely. It’s important to fully assess the extent of your damages or losses before entering into settlement negotiations. Premature agreement to a settlement amount may undervalue your claim and limit your ability to seek fair compensation.
Do you need help with an insurance claim?
We understand that dealing with a claim can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help.
We are a team of experienced Loss Assessors who have helped thousands of people get a fair settlement. We can help you navigate the insurance process, get the answers you need, and get your life back on track.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your claim and answer any questions you have. There’s no obligation.
Call us today on 0808 258 1831 or visit www.morganclark.co.uk/contact-us/.
