Are you confused about insurance claims and need help? Below are a few frequently asked questions that may offer some insight. If you have any a question you do not see here, please contact us. We will be more than happy to help!

Here’s a short video to test your Insurance IQ from the Insurance Information Institute (III).

Q:  I have water damage or mold damage to my property.  What is my first step?

A: The first thing you should do is contact your insurance agent.  Your agent is there to help, not just write you a policy.  Explain to your agent what has happened and ask them to get the claim process rolling for you.  Have your policy where you can look at it when you are talking to your agent.
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Q: How do I know I have coverage for this damage?

A: Your coverage usually covers sudden and accidental events.  If you are unsure, this is the time to ask your agent.  Have your agent direct you to the part of your policy that states whether or not you are covered.
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Q:  I have mold, is it covered?

A: Mold is generally not covered by your homeowners insurance policy, unless you have a specific rider.  Your policy coverage is for disasters that are sudden and accidental.  If, however, the mold is caused as a result of a covered loss, you may be covered for the elimination of the mold.  Get the details from your agent about your specific loss.

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Q: What is a deductible and who pays it?

A: A deductible is the agreed upon policy amount that you, the homeowner, is responsible to pay in the event of a claim.  This is usually payable to the contractor upon the beginning of services.
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Q: I have my claim rolling, what is expected of me now?

A: Your insurance company expects you to try and minimize the loss as much as possible by preventing as much damage as possible.  For example, if you have had water damage, put tin foil under the legs of the furniture to prevent damage to the furniture and carpet staining.  Wipe Out can begin work immediately upon arrival to protect your belonging and you.
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Q:  Do I have to use the contractor my insurance company recommends?

A: No.  As the homeowner you can contract anyone you feel comfortable performing these services.  Your insurance company may recommend a contractor, but you ultimately have the choice.  Your insurance company will pay bills of other contractors in this industry, regardless of how they put the “recommendation” message across to you.
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Q:  What are Insurance Adjusters?

A: Insurance adjusters, usually hired by insurance companies, will come to your home to assess the damage and create documentation of your loss and estimated repair.  There are three types of adjusters.  The first is a Company Adjuster.  They are a representative of the insurance company directly.  The second is a Independent Adjuster.  They are contracted by your insurance company to assess the loss.  The third is a Public Adjuster.  This type of adjuster is usually hired by the homeowner to work for them.  This type of adjuster is normally not a reimbursable expense, so be prepared to foot the bill.
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Q:  What if I have a mortgage on my property?

A: If you have a mortgage, your insurance will usually have your mortgage company listed on your payment check.  Notify Wipe Out immediately at the beginning of the project.  This way, we can assist you with necessary scheduling of inspections and paperwork required by your mortgage company to release payment to you.  The faster you get the ball rolling the quicker you get your payment released.  Mortgage companies are notorious for being slow at processing payments.
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Q: What if the damages were more than the estimate?

A: If you there damages covered by this claim that were not found in the initial estimating process, a supplement estimate will be issued to your insurance company.  Wipe Out keeps in communication with your adjuster during this process and will work out what is covered prior to beginning work.
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Q: Who handles getting your bill to the insurance company?

A: Wipe Out sends all documentation to your adjuster for you, with a copy provided to you.  This documentation includes all aspects of the project scope with backup documentation.
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Q: What if my insurance company denies my claim or delays payment?

A: A great resource for answers to this question can be found at Policy Holders of America – a non-profit organization dedicated the the education of insureds.