Renter's Insurance Adjuster: Understanding The Timing Of Their Visit

Renters' insurance is a type of insurance that covers tenants' personal belongings in the event of theft or damage. It also covers personal liability, accidental injury, and temporary displacement. When a renter needs to file a claim, they should notify their insurance company as soon as possible. The insurance company will then send a claims adjuster to assess the damage and determine whether the claim is covered by the renter's policy. The adjuster will look at the renter's policy details and determine if the claim amount is higher than the deductible. If the claim is approved, the renter will receive compensation for their losses, minus the deductible.

The renter insurance adjuster's role

The adjuster investigates the claim on behalf of the insurance company, communicating with the insured throughout the claims process. They are responsible for delivering a report to the insurance company that explains everything about the claim and how much the insurer should pay to settle it. The adjuster will also analyse the insurance policy to determine which parts of the claim are covered.

The adjuster's job begins once a claim is filed against an insurance policy. They verify that insurance coverage applies to the loss and notify the insurer of a covered loss under the policy terms. They must also file any necessary paperwork, communicate with the claimant, and investigate the assignment of liability.

The renter insurance adjuster will also physically inspect and assess the damages. They may travel to a repair shop to inspect a damaged vehicle or to a hospital to verify medical records and patient information in cases of bodily injury claims. They will also research market values and average replacement costs associated with each aspect of the claim.

The adjuster will then provide a detailed damage report to the insurance company, including a recommended settlement amount. They may also negotiate with vendors or repair shops on cost and time needed for repair/replacement. If the claimant disagrees with the settlement offer, the adjuster may reassess any new information or evidence.

At all times, the renter insurance adjuster is responsible for protecting the interests of the insurance company and preventing overpayment or any payment on an exaggerated or illegitimate claim.

When to expect a visit from an adjuster

If you've filed a renters insurance claim, an adjuster will be sent to investigate your damages and assess how much you're eligible to receive in reimbursement. An adjuster is the insurance representative who handles your claim. They will determine whether your policy covers the claim and for how much.

There are two types of reimbursement provisions: a replacement cost value policy pays for the item (if your $1,000 bed is damaged, you'll get $1,000 from the insurance company), and an actual cash value policy pays out the depreciated cost of an item (you bought your $1,000 bed five years ago and it's only worth $200 today, so that's what the insurer pays).

The adjuster will make sure that the claim is valid and eligible under the policy descriptions for covered losses. If the claim is for liability coverage, the adjuster will contact the claimants' doctors or lawyers on behalf of the insurance carrier. They may also consult with the landlord, a law enforcement official, or a relevant professional who can provide context for an uncertain claim.

The adjuster may have the authority to authorize a claim. If they suspect or discover during the investigation that the claim is fraudulent, reimbursement may be denied and the claimant could even be prosecuted for insurance fraud.

The adjuster's evaluation is almost certainly the final word on your claim, but some renters insurance carriers let you appeal their decision. Also, keep in mind that not every claim requires an investigation. For especially catastrophic damages, a public adjuster who doesn't work for the renters insurance company may try to contact you. This person may get you a much higher payout, as the insurance company's adjuster may be trying to save money for their employer. However, while the insurance company's adjuster works for free, a public adjuster will charge a fee for their services.

How to prepare for their visit

• Take pictures: Take photos of every detail of the damage or incident. This will help to provide evidence of what happened and can be used to support your claim.
• Do not clean up: It is important that the adjuster sees the damage in its entirety, so refrain from cleaning up until they arrive. Only clean up beforehand if it is absolutely necessary.
• Do not move or remove items: Similarly, try not to move or remove any items that have been damaged or affected by the incident. This will ensure that the adjuster has an accurate understanding of what happened.
• Gather documentation: Collect any relevant documents, such as your home inventory, receipts, police reports, and any other information that can help validate your claims.
• File a police report: If the incident involved an illegal act, such as theft, be sure to file a police report. This can help support your insurance claim.
• Provide information: If there were any witnesses or other people present at the time of the incident, provide their contact information to the adjuster. This can help safeguard your claim process.
• Make temporary repairs: Before the adjuster arrives, take reasonable steps to protect your property and prevent further damage. This may include making temporary repairs and securing features such as windows, doors, and roofs.
• Fill out forms: Complete all necessary forms as soon as possible. Provide as much information as you can about your damaged possessions to speed up the claims process.
• Photograph debris: Take photos or videos of any destroyed items or debris. Do not throw away any damaged items until the adjuster has inspected them, but if necessary, make sure to document the damage before disposing of any items.
• Stay organized: Keep all relevant paperwork, photographs, receipts, repair bills, estimates, and contact information organized and easily accessible. This will make it easier to refer back to during the claims process.

What happens if the claim is denied

If your renter's insurance claim is denied, the first thing to do is remain calm and try to understand why. The majority of denied claims are due to the cause of the damage not being covered by the renter's policy. For example, if your items were damaged in a flood, but you don't have flood coverage, your claim will likely be denied.

Other common reasons for denied claims include:

• The damage costs are less than the deductible: If the cost of repairs or replacements is less than your deductible amount, it doesn't make sense to file a claim.
• Uncovered disasters and losses: Some disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and tornadoes, may not be covered unless you have additional coverage.
• The damages were intentional: If the damage was caused by intentional actions, rather than an accident, the claim will usually be denied.
• The landlord is responsible for the loss: If your landlord failed to make necessary repairs, and this resulted in damage or loss, they may be liable.
• Misrepresentation of risk: Failing to disclose relevant information, such as having a dog or the property being a second home, can lead to a denied claim.
• Non-payment of premiums: If you haven't paid your premiums, your policy may be cancelled, and any claims will be denied.
• Fraud: Attempting to claim items you never owned or intentionally causing damage will result in a denied claim and possible legal consequences.

If you disagree with the denial of your claim, you can consider hiring a lawyer to dispute the decision, especially if the claim involves a significant amount of money. However, for smaller claims, the cost of legal fees may outweigh the potential benefits.

Getting the most out of the claim

Getting the Most Out of Your Claim

• Be honest: When providing your side of the story to your insurance provider, be as honest as possible. Avoid lying or being argumentative with the claims adjuster. Claims adjusters could dispute your claim if they think you could have prevented the loss or if your negligence played a role.
• Keep a detailed inventory of your property losses: Include brand names, special features, model numbers, and other relevant information. This will help you recoup the value of your losses. Claims adjusters could dispute your claim if they think you could have prevented the loss or if your negligence played a role.
• Include the small stuff: Even if some items are not worth much, include them in your inventory. These smaller items can add up and help you meet your deductible.
• Provide detailed information for each item on your claim: This will help you settle quickly and for the right amount. Ideally, you should have a home inventory that documents each of your belongings, including a description, date of purchase, and price (with a receipt, if possible).
• Be specific when creating a home inventory: Insurance companies may reimburse you at the cheapest possible level if you are not specific. For example, instead of simply stating "couch", specify that it is a "designer sectional made of fine leather".
• Save copies of your receipts: For big purchases, save copies of your receipts. This will help provide proof of ownership and value if you need to file a claim.
• Act quickly: Many insurance providers require that claims be filed within 48 to 72 hours. The faster you file your claim, the faster you'll be compensated, and the less likely it will be denied.
• Document everything: Keep all documentation, including police reports, photos, receipts, or descriptions of the damage or loss. This will help you accurately complete your claim form.
• Contact your landlord: Let your landlord know what's going on, especially if repairs are needed or if a burglary or other crime has occurred. Most leases require you to inform the landlord immediately of any situations where the property is compromised or damaged.
• File a police report if needed: If your losses are the result of a burglary, theft, vandalism, or other malicious actions, file a police report. A police report may also be needed for fires, explosions, and other events that compromise safety.
• Contact your insurance company as soon as possible: Provide your policy number and all the information you have about the incident. Your company can verify the time limit for filing your claim and whether the amount of your claim will be higher than your deductible.
• Address any damage that could cause additional issues: For example, fix a broken window or exposed part of the apartment to prevent further damage. Any costs associated with temporary repairs may be included in your future settlement.
• Submit any requested documentation: This includes receipts, photos, videos, or other evidence that supports your claim. The more thorough your documentation, the smoother the claims process will be.
• Keep a claim journal: Record who you talk to, when you called, what was said, and any other relevant details. Keep all your paperwork organized and together.

Frequently asked questions