Chasing Chaos: A Storm Adjuster's Tale

Storm chasing as an insurance adjuster can be a demanding but rewarding career. It involves travelling to areas affected by storms and natural disasters to help handle the overwhelming number of insurance claims. This career path offers a flexible schedule, high income, and travel opportunities, but it can also be challenging and require a significant amount of training and licensing. Adjusters need to be able to hustle, be enthusiastic, and enjoy what they do to succeed in this field. They play a crucial role in helping communities recover from disasters by assessing damage, negotiating with insured individuals, and providing financial assistance.

Storm chasers are in high demand after hurricanes

The demand for adjusters surges after hurricanes and other natural disasters. When Hurricane Sandy hit the east coast, it quickly drained the adjuster pool, leading companies to provide emergency training to handle the influx of claims. Similarly, after Hurricane Ida in Louisiana, there were hundreds of thousands of insurance claims, and even a year later, not all of them had been resolved. This illustrates the long-term nature of the work, as adjusters are needed not just in the immediate aftermath but also in the months that follow as people navigate the complexities of repairs and rebuilding.

The work of a storm-chasing insurance adjuster is challenging and often hectic. It involves long hours, extensive travel, and dealing with stressful situations. Adjusters must be able to navigate complex insurance policies, assess damage, and help people through the claims process. It can be emotionally demanding, as adjusters witness the devastation and hear the stories of those impacted.

However, it can also be a rewarding career. Adjusters help people in their greatest time of need, providing essential support and guidance through the complex world of insurance. It offers flexible schedules, high income, and the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives. For those with a passion for helping others and the drive to face challenging situations head-on, storm chasing as an insurance adjuster can be a fulfilling career choice.

To become a storm-chasing insurance adjuster, there are several steps to take. First, obtain your home state adjuster license, which is required before pursuing additional licenses. Then, gain proficiency in estimating software like Xactimate, as this is essential for handling property claims. Next, get on the rosters of multiple independent adjusting firms, increasing your chances of being deployed to hurricane-affected areas. Finally, be prepared to travel and work long hours in the aftermath of a hurricane, as this is when your skills will be in the highest demand.

Storm chasers need to be licensed in their home state or have a designated home state license

Storm chasing can be an exciting career path for insurance adjusters, but it is important to ensure that you have the necessary qualifications and licensing in place before embarking on this journey. Here are some key points to consider regarding licensing requirements for storm-chasing insurance adjusters:

Get Licensed in Your Home State First:

The first step towards becoming a storm-chasing insurance adjuster is to obtain your home state adjuster license. This might seem counterintuitive, especially if you are planning to chase storms in other states. However, state departments of insurance agree that claims adjusters need to get their home state license first. The process and timing can vary depending on your state. For example, in states like Florida or Indiana, you can complete the entire process, from taking the required course to getting your license, within a week. On the other hand, states like Texas may have a longer processing time, so it is essential to start the licensing process as soon as possible.

Understanding Designated Home State (DHS) License:

It is important to note that there are several states that do not license independent insurance adjusters. In such cases, the concept of a Designated Home State (DHS) license comes into play. This license allows individuals from non-licensing states to designate a licensing "home state" and obtain a valid license. The Florida Adjuster License, also known as the Florida nonresident 70-20 DHS License, is highly recommended for people from non-licensing states. It requires a state exam and fingerprinting, and it offers smooth reciprocity with other states for adjusters. Florida can also approve and issue adjuster licenses within a week.

Obtaining Additional Licenses:

Once you have your home state or DHS license, you can pursue additional licenses to work in other states. There are two common ways to achieve this: reciprocal licenses and emergency licenses. Reciprocal licenses allow you to apply for another state's license without repeating the education course or exam. This process is straightforward and usually grants approval relatively quickly. On the other hand, emergency adjuster licenses are temporary, typically valid for 3 to 6 months, and can be extended if needed. These licenses are crucial after disasters, as they enable the state to license out-of-state adjusters who would otherwise not qualify. However, obtaining an emergency license often requires sponsorship from an employer, which can be challenging for new adjusters.

The Bottom Line:

To become a storm-chasing insurance adjuster, it is essential to prioritize obtaining your home state or DHS license first. This foundational step will enable you to pursue additional licensing and open up opportunities to work in different states. Remember that licensing requirements and processes can vary by state, so staying informed and proactive is key to a successful career in storm chasing and insurance adjusting.

Storm chasers must be trained in insurance code, policy, procedure, and estimating software

Storm chasing can be a lucrative career choice, but it requires a specific skill set and a certain temperament. Storm chasers are often independent adjusters, who enjoy flexible schedules, high incomes, and plenty of travel. However, the work is demanding and requires a good deal of training and expertise.

Estimating software is a crucial tool for storm chasers, as it allows them to produce detailed estimates for repairs and replacements quickly and efficiently. This software provides access to extensive databases with real-time pricing information for materials and labour, ensuring accurate and consistent estimates. Proficiency in estimating software is considered the most important technical skill for storm chasers, as it streamlines the claims process and improves customer satisfaction.

There are several estimating software programs available, including Xactimate, Symbility, Simsol, and PowerClaim. Xactimate is widely considered the industry standard, and AdjusterPro offers a highly-rated training course specifically for this software. Simsol, on the other hand, is known for its user-friendliness and simplicity, allowing users to generate estimates, sketches, and reports with minimal training.

In addition to estimating software, storm chasers also need to be proficient in claims management software, which helps them organise and track the status of claims, store documents, and communicate with relevant parties. A basic understanding of accounting and bookkeeping software, such as QuickBooks, is also beneficial for financial reporting and expense tracking.

Overall, storm chasers must possess a wide range of skills and knowledge to effectively perform their jobs. Their work is fast-paced and challenging but can be extremely rewarding, both financially and personally.

Storm chasers can make a lot of money, but it can be challenging to break into the industry

Storm chasing can be a lucrative career, but it is challenging to break into the industry. While some storm chasers are paid handsomely, with salaries ranging from $12,621 to $339,998 per year and a median salary of $61,444, the road to becoming a successful storm chaser is not easy.

Storm chasers are in high demand, especially after major weather events such as hurricanes or tornadoes. However, getting into the industry requires dedication, flexibility, and often multiple sources of income. Many storm chasers start by working with a meteorologist or experienced storm chaser as an assistant or pursuing an education in meteorology. During the off-season or slow periods, some chasers take on additional jobs or work part-time to make ends meet.

The work itself is unpredictable and dangerous. Storm chasers must be able to reach storm-affected areas quickly and work long hours, often in challenging conditions. They may spend significant time on the road, away from family and friends. Additionally, the work can be physically demanding, requiring good driving skills and the ability to operate specialised equipment.

To be successful, storm chasers need to be resourceful and adaptable. They must be able to navigate the challenges of travelling to different locations, finding accommodation, and covering expenses such as food, fuel, and equipment costs. Some chasers rely on donations, sponsorships, or additional income from selling footage or allowing citizens to ride along on missions. Others may work directly for television stations or private companies, providing them with more stable sources of income.

Breaking into the industry as a freelance storm chaser can be particularly challenging. The costs of equipment, food, accommodation, and cell phone service can quickly add up, and there is no guarantee of earning enough from selling footage to cover these expenses. As a result, many freelance storm chasers lose money instead of turning a profit.

Overall, while storm chasing can offer financial rewards, it requires hard work, dedication, and a strong passion for extreme weather. Those seeking to enter the field should carefully consider the challenges and be prepared to make the necessary sacrifices and adjustments to succeed in this exciting but demanding career.

Storm chasers should be aware of storm-chasing contractors or storm chasers who may try to take advantage of people

Storm chasing is a dangerous and challenging job that requires bravery and courage. Storm chasers are often the first responders to fatal storms, and their work is critical in saving the public from approaching storms. They also get to travel across the country and witness sights that most people don't often see. However, it can be costly and stressful due to the high risk of failure and the extensive travel involved.

Storm chasers, particularly those in the roofing industry, should be aware of storm-chasing contractors or fellow storm chasers who may try to take advantage of people in the aftermath of a storm. These individuals or companies may employ scare tactics and high-pressure sales strategies to convince unsuspecting homeowners that they need to replace their roofs immediately. They may also lack the proper licensing, offer quick fixes, or make unrealistic promises. Here are some signs that a roofing contractor may be a storm chaser:

• They go door-to-door uninvited, pressuring homeowners to make hasty decisions.
• They offer a "lifetime" workmanship warranty, which is unrealistic as no business can guarantee its longevity.
• They require you to sign something before they even inspect your roof, which could be an agreement to use their services.
• They push you to file an insurance claim right away without giving you time to research your options.
• Their crew does not wear company gear and may be subcontractors.
• They have out-of-state license plates, indicating they are not local and may lack the proper licensing for your area.
• They insist on seeing your insurance paperwork to maximize their profits rather than providing an honest quote.
• They offer to "pay" your deductible, which is illegal and may result in increased roofing quotes.

To protect yourself from storm-chasing contractors, it is essential to do your research. Verify the contractor's license, insurance, and references. Get everything in writing, pay with a credit card, and never pay the total amount until all work is completed satisfactorily. Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics and avoid signing over insurance checks or any documents that give the contractor rights to your insurance claims. Remember, it is your right to choose a contractor and make decisions without feeling forced or rushed.

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