Reassessments Without New Evidence?
Hello everyone,
I’ve been in ongoing discussions with my adjuster and his supervisor regarding my hail and wind damage claim for my roof. During our exchanges, the adjuster unexpectedly included an unrelated roofer in the email thread (I could tell by the email address). This communication was in response to our earlier conversation, which contained my claim number, name, address, and other personal details. I removed the roofer from the email and informed the adjuster that I did not know who he was, but my concerns were ignored.
Additionally, the adjuster has displayed some troubling behavior, including rudeness and a lack of clarity in explaining how he arrived at certain estimates. I feel compelled to file a complaint regarding the unauthorized sharing of my information. After discussing this with his manager, I requested a new adjuster and a reassessment due to the potential conflict of interest stemming from the roofer being copied. However, the manager firmly declined my request, asserting that the inclusion of the roofer was merely an accident (despite the email chain only ever involving the adjuster and me, making it feel more deliberate).
They are standing by the initial assessment unless I provide additional evidence. Is this common practice? While I plan to submit estimates and assessments, I can’t shake the feeling that my claim is not being handled fairly. Any advice would be appreciated.
It sounds like you’re dealing with a frustrating situation, and it’s understandable to feel concerned about the way your claim is being handled. Here are a few suggestions on how to proceed:
Document Everything: Make sure to keep detailed records of all interactions with the adjuster and his supervisor, including dates, times, and summaries of conversations. This documentation can be crucial if you need to escalate the issue further.
File a Formal Complaint: If you haven’t already, consider filing a formal complaint with the claims department or customer service division of the insurance company. Include all relevant details, including the adjuster’s behavior, the email incident, and your concerns about how your information was handled.
Request a Second Opinion: While the manager may have denied your request for a reassessment, you could still look into getting an independent estimate from a reputable roofing contractor. This could provide you with the evidence you need to support your claim.
Contact a State Insurance Regulator: If you believe your complaint is not being addressed satisfactorily, you can reach out to your state’s insurance regulator or department. They can provide guidance on how to handle disputes with insurance companies and may be able to intervene on your behalf.
Consider Legal Help: If the situation doesn’t improve, it may be worth consulting with an attorney who specializes in insurance claims. They can advise you on your rights and potential next steps.
Stay Persistent: Keep following up regularly with the adjuster and management. Sometimes persistent communication can lead to more favorable attention to your claim.
It can be tough to navigate these situations, especially when you feel your concerns are being dismissed. Stay organized and assertive in your communications, and hopefully, you’ll see some progress soon.