Hurricane Tomas ripped through St Lucia on the 30th October 2010, with 75mph winds causing total devastation.
St. Lucia
Hurricane Tomas ripped through St Lucia on the 30th October 2010, with 75mph winds causing total devastation. Property and parts of the island’s infrastructure sustained a heavy battering, leaving roads and bridges totally destroyed and communities stranded. Our client lived in the southern region of Soufriere, which was one of the worse affected areas, and hired us to work on the loss of their prestigious hotel resort, spanning 120 acres.
Our major loss team flew out on the first available flight to gauge the true extent of the damage. Initially they focused on building easy forums of communication between the insurers and their loss adjusters and our client and their broker. Our specialists then measured and quantified the state of the buildings across the resort, preparing a detailed damage report for the owners and producing a document that addressed policy wording. Although it was clear that complete reinstatement would take a long time, this early work enabled all parties to work together on mitigations and a practical plan for recovery that took into account the upcoming lucrative Christmas and New Year period.
This quick response and the detailed documentation we produced meant interim payments were agreed early on in the claim process. Our chartered accountant was able to base these on both the gross profit and the potential losses, which meant they could set suitable reserve figures.
At this point, you would hope that your insurance company is there to help but unfortunately, this is not always the case. We have known families who have felt intimidated by insurers and have been treated as though they have done something wrong, or are in some way to blame for their situation.
How to respond to a Loss Adjuster
Why they ask
This is to compare your version of events against your policy coverage and timelines.
Smart answer
Always stick to the facts. Avoid speculation or emotional exaggeration.
With a loss assessor
A loss assessor will help you structure your account clearly so you don’t over- or under-share.
How to respond to a Loss Adjuster
Why they ask
They’re basically verifying if the event falls within your coverage period.
Smart answer
Be as specific as possible with the date and time.
Avoid
'I think it was last week sometime...'
Tip
A loss assessor will ensure that this matches other documentation, like alarm logs or photos.
How to respond to a Loss Adjuster
Why they ask
They want to confirm the circumstances and establish liability or negligence.
Smart answer
Answer honestly and clearly, and mention if others were present.
Tip
If others witnessed the event, a loss assessor may advise collecting statements from them to bolster your claim.
How to respond to a Loss Adjuster
Why they ask
They want to validate the items you’re claiming for.
Smart answer
Where possible, provide receipts, invoices, photos or warranty documents.
No receipts?
No stress, a loss assessor may be able to help you establish the value using alternative methods.
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