Although each insurance company’s claims process is different, their needs are the same. In order for your claim to be processed fairly and in a timely manner they need the same basic information. McFarland Fire& Storm has experience working with insurance representatives to help navigate clients through this process. Some insurance companies may have an old list of contractors; however you as the property owner ultimately have the right to select the contractor of your choice.

The first step is to submit your claim to either your agent or directly to a representative of your insurance company. With most companies this can be done by telephone or by the internet. If possible locate your policy for phone numbers and information that will be needed to process your claim. To ensure payment for damage and loss incurred, it is vital that you initiate and maintain contact with your agent and adjustor.

There are things you need to do immediately following the damage. One of the most important things to understand about your policy is that it is your obligation to prevent any further loss or damage. Promptly contact an experienced restoration contractor who can minimize damage. Additionally you should keep track of all related expenditures from this point. We are available for emergency responses 24 hours a day. After our initial response one of our certified specialists will be on site with the necessary equipment within hours

Once the claim is filed, you will be given a Claim number and assigned an adjustor. Most insurance companies have their own field adjustors while there are some that use independent adjusting firms. You can help this process by providing receipts or documentation of value as well as prior photos of items lost or damaged. Further it is important to have a qualified restoration contractor as part of the initial inspection. As a qualified restoration contractor we understand the claims process and the construction process so we can prepare a thorough scope of work. This will help in insure that you receive an accurate assessment of your loss. We also have a third party estimating system that produces an estimate that is in line with current insurance industry standards. This lessens the time it takes the adjustor to approve the estimate thus getting the work started sooner.

In some emergency cases work needs to be done while the estimating is still in progress. When necessary we will work directly with both you and your insurance company without the final estimate. In many cases the insurance company will pay the contractor directly. If your name is included on the insurance check, you will be asked to endorse the check over to the contractor when the work is completed. In cases of a mortgage on the property, the mortgage company may also be included on the insurance check. If this is the case, your assistance is necessary in getting an endorsement from your mortgage company.

Many factors determine how quickly your claim is processed. The completion of this process could be anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months. Maintaining communication with your adjustor and agent aides in the progress of your claim’s process. Therefore, it is important to document who you spoke with, when you spoke with them, what was discussed and when they are to follow up with you. Contact them promptly if that time passes and you have not heard from them.

At McFarland Fire & Storm we recognize that this is not an easy time for you. At times like this it pays to work with a firm who understands the claims process and can return your property to normal as quickly as possible.

To request service from a certified McFarland Fire & Storm contractor, call us at (219) 934-9885.