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To understand how hail damage affects buildings and insurance claims requires understanding both the technical aspects of damage assessment and the human element of homeowner expectations. In this enlightening solo episode, Chantel Roberts dives deep into the world of structural and roof hail damage claims, offering critical insights for adjusters and policyholders alike.

Chantel breaks down the fundamental differences between cosmetic and structural damage, explaining how adjusters evaluate bruising, cracking, granule loss, and punctures to determine if a roof's integrity has been compromised. She addresses the controversial "matching principle" – when insurers must replace undamaged portions of siding or roofing to maintain a uniform appearance – and how this varies dramatically based on policy language, state regulations, and court interpretations.

The episode offers a candid look at why homeowner expectations often clash with policy realities. Many policyholders purchase policies with cosmetic damage exclusions or percentage-based deductibles without fully understanding these limitations until they file a claim. Chantel emphasizes that while adjusters didn't create these misunderstandings, effective communication becomes their responsibility during the claims process.

Particularly valuable is Chantel's practical advice for handling supplements, setting clear expectations with insureds about the repair process, and balancing thorough investigations with prompt payment. With storm events generating massive claim volumes (147,000 claims and $442 million in payments in Kansas alone in 2023), adjusters must master both technical assessment skills and effective communication strategies.

Whether you're an experienced adjuster, new to the profession, or a homeowner trying to understand your coverage, this episode provides essential knowledge about how hail claims are evaluated and settled. Subscribe to the Art of Adjusting podcast for more insights into the complex world of insurance claims handling.

For more insights, you might consider a career in liability adjusting or if you're searching for reliable adjusting services, visit Auten Claims Management.

To explore more about Chantal Roberts and her contributions to the industry, visit CMR Consulting.

Promotions:

• Once Upon a Claim: Explore the magical world of claims adjusting through fairy tales. Get your copy now.
• The Art of Adjusting®: Master the art of claims adjusting with practical insights and expert advice. Purchase here.

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When the sky pelts your vehicle with ice, the damage goes far beyond cosmetic dents—it triggers a cascade of insurance decisions that could impact your wallet for years to come. In this comprehensive guide to automotive hail damage claims, Bill and Chantel tackle the complex world of total loss declarations, salvage titles, and diminished value from the insider perspective of experienced adjusters.

The conversation dives deep into the mysterious "70-75% rule" that insurance companies use to determine when your dented but perfectly drivable vehicle crosses the threshold into total loss territory. You'll learn why this seemingly arbitrary percentage exists, how different states regulate it, and what options remain when your car is deemed "totaled" despite being mechanically sound.

Salvage titles represent another crucial piece of the hail damage puzzle. Bill and Chantel walk through the entire process—from initial damage assessment to title conversion through your state's DMV—explaining how this designation affects your ability to drive, sell, or insure your vehicle moving forward. Their candid discussion highlights the frustrating reality that cosmetically damaged but functionally perfect vehicles must carry this stigma.

Perhaps most valuable is their examination of diminished value claims—the often-overlooked financial loss that occurs when your vehicle's market value drops simply because it has damage history, even after perfect repairs. The hosts explore the evolution of these claims, why insurance companies have historically resisted them, and how today's information-rich environment has forced the industry to acknowledge this economic reality.

The episode features fascinating real-world examples, including a massive seven-dealership claim with a $3 million deductible where Ferrari and Maserati inventory received priority protection while everyday vehicles faced nature's wrath. Special considerations for leased vehicles round out this essential guide for anyone who parks their car under the open sky.

Want to protect yourself before the next storm hits? Subscribe to The Art of Adjusting podcast for more insider knowledge from experienced claims professionals who understand both sides of the insurance equation.

For more insights, you might consider a career in liability adjusting or if you're searching for reliable adjusting services, visit Auten Claims Management.

To explore more about Chantal Roberts and her contributions to the industry, visit CMR Consulting.

Promotions:

• Once Upon a Claim: Explore the magical world of claims adjusting through fairy tales. Get your copy now.
• The Art of Adjusting®: Master the art of claims adjusting with practical insights and expert advice. Purchase here.

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This week’s podcast dives into the world of claims made versus occurrence policies, shedding light on their significant differences and implications for those in the insurance industry. Our guest expert, Fred Fisher, shares valuable insights gained from decades in the field, offering critical information for both current and aspiring adjusters.

• Defining claims made and occurrence policies
• Exploring the impact of claim reporting requirements
• Discussing the importance of timely reporting
• Analyzing real-world claim scenarios and case studies
• Highlighting current trends and changes in insurance practices
• Understanding the ethical complexities of claims adjusting

For those wishing to gain further insights, check out Fred Fisher's new book Claims-Made Insurance. His deep knowledge offers essential understanding for anyone in the insurance business.

Be sure to check out his upcoming webinar as well.

This audio has been edited and engineered by Nicholas Kearns, 585-545-9976, njkearns11@gmail.com

For more insights, you might consider a career in liability adjusting or if you're searching for reliable adjusting services, visit Auten Claims Management.

To explore more about Chantal Roberts and her contributions to the industry, visit CMR Consulting.

Promotions:

• Once Upon a Claim: Explore the magical world of claims adjusting through fairy tales. Get your copy now.
• The Art of Adjusting®: Master the art of claims adjusting with practical insights and expert advice. Purchase here.