Our client suffered fire and smoke damage to the ground floor of their property following a kitchen house fire.
The family were awoken during the night by their smoke alarm which alerted them to the danger and evacuated immediately. When Harris Balcombe were appointed we took over the claim by liaising with insurers and arranging for specialist restoration and building contractors to attend.
There was a difficult period of negotiation with insurers to ensure that our client’s claim settled with optimum results, as the initial reinstatement suggestions by insurers were far from what was required and what they were entitled to.
Insurer’s initial proposal was that the kitchen smoke damage could be cleaned and restored. However, following action by Harris Balcombe a new kitchen was negotiated as well as ground floor redecoration.
In addition Harris Balcombe negotiated settlement of a contents claim, the additional expenses incurred by the client and a sum in compensation for errors made by the insurer’s adjuster.
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.
Hassle free, no obligations is how we operate. So if you’d like to speak to us call our 24/7 Helpline on 03300229179 or email us at info@harrisbalcombe.com. Or simply click the button below ...