| Q. |
Can I receive
the cash instead of replacing damaged items? |
| A. |
Not generally.
Most policies require that the item actually be repaired or replaced
in order to receive the replacement cost settlement. In most cases,
the adjuster will provide an advance based on the depreciated value
of the items then pay the difference upon presentation of evidence
that the items were replaced.
|
| Q. |
Can
I use the contractor I prefer for home repairs? |
| A. |
When your home
is damaged, the adjuster often inspects the damage and provides
a check for his or her estimate of the repairs. If your preferred
contractor is unwilling to do the work for the amount allowed by
the adjuster, have your contractor contact the adjuster. Often,
the differences can be resolved resulting in the insurance company
agreeing to your contractor's price. If your contractor is unwilling
to work with the adjuster, beware--this may be a sign of overcharging.
If you proceed with the work without the adjuster's approval, you
could end up paying the difference out of your pocket.
|
| Q. |
Can
I order emergency repairs/cleanup without the adjusters approval? |
| A. |
Yes. You have
a responsibility to protect the property from further damage so you
can and should order emergency cleanup or repairs. This includes boarding
up broken windows, covering openings in the roof, and cleaning up
water damage. Of course, the cause of the damage has to be covered
by the insurance for it to be paid. |
| Q. |
Do
I have to have receipts for everything that is lost or stolen to recover? |
| A. |
No but it certainly
helps. If your home is broken into and you have a 3 year old 25"
TV and a 5 year old stereo that was $400 new stolen, chances are the
adjuster will not have a problem with a lack of receipts. Most people
have TV's and stereo's and they don't always keep the receipts. What
would be suspicious would be if you said you had a new 50" projection
system TV and a six month old stereo worth $4,000 with no receipts
or other proof. Such high-end items are less common and it would be
very usual for such items to be purchased so recently with no evidence
to prove their purchase. So keep receipts in a safe place but know
that the lack of receipts will not necessarily mean you will not be
reimbursed the full value. |