How to Uncover Prior Claims on a Property Like a Pro

How to Uncover Prior Claims on a Property Like a Pro

As a field adjuster, your job doesn’t just include evaluating damage; it’s about uncovering the story behind the property you’re assessing. You know what I mean? Every house has a history, and often, that history includes previous insurance claims. Knowing how to access this information efficiently can save you time and provide invaluable context throughout your inspection process. So, how can you, as a savvy adjuster, determine if prior claims exist on a property? Let’s break it down.

The Gold Standard: Contact Previous Insurers

If you really want to get to the bottom of a property’s history, contacting previous insurers is your best bet. Why? Well, insurers keep meticulous records of all claims filed against a policy. We’re talking about details like claim types, dates, and resolutions. These records don’t just offer a glimpse into what’s happened—they give you a full report card, making them essential for understanding the risks you're dealing with now.

Imagine walking into a property with a known history of water damage claims. Armed with that knowledge, you'd assess the risk of future claims differently, potentially adjusting your approach

Why This Method Works

The magic of this method lies in its reliability. When you reach out to previous insurers, you’re getting first-hand data straight from the source—no muddy interpretations or guesswork. They hold onto all claim documentation, which can be a treasure trove of information. This can influence your assessment of new claims significantly.

The Downside: Local Government Records and Homeowner Insights

Now, you might think about checking local government records or even asking the current homeowner about past claims. Sure, there’s some merit to these approaches, but let’s be honest:

• Local government records can tell you about permits or prior violations, but they often fall short when it comes to details about previous insurance claims. They just don't have the complete picture.
• Homeowner insights can be a bit of a gamble. While having a chat with the current owners can yield some information, it’s not the most reliable method—especially if they’re new to the property. They might not have all the relevant details or could unintentionally misinterpret previous issues.

So while these methods can supplement your findings, they shouldn’t be your go-to strategies.

Weighing Your Options

When you stack these methods against each other, it quickly becomes clear: contacting previous insurers and reviewing their records is hands-down the most effective approach. It’s like diving into a novel where each claim paints a richer, fuller picture of the property in question.

And let’s face it, having comprehensive data at your fingertips empowers you to make more informed decisions. Whether you're evaluating new claims or setting the groundwork for your next steps in the claims process, that detailed history is a must-have tool.

Conclusion: Be the Detective of Claims History

In the world of field adjusting, you wear many hats—investigator, counselor, damage assessor. Being equipped with the right techniques for uncovering prior claims on properties can set you apart in your field. As you prepare for the TWIA Field Adjuster Certification, remember, your ability to verify a property's claim history not only strengthens your evaluations but ultimately protects everyone involved. Talk about a win-win, right?

So, as you put your skills to the test, make sure you keep this critical strategy in your back pocket. A comprehensive understanding of a property's past can make all the difference in your future assessments.