Why using an umpire with restoration repairs experience is vital during an insurance claim dispute.

If you wanted to hike the Grand Canyon with friends and family and were looking for a guide that could lead you through your adventure, would you prefer a guide that has actually hiked the Grand Canyon hundreds if not thousands of times, or would you prefer someone that has read all about the Grand Canyon from articles and books and feels mentally prepared for what the Grand Canyon has to offer? The answer is easy if you are wise; you would take the experienced veteran with real world experience, not the well-read guide.

The same general concept applies to umpiring disputed insurance claims. In the world of insurance claims, especially when it comes to complex property damage disputes, it is crucial for the umpire to possess in-depth knowledge in property restoration. This is especially paramount in regions (like Florida) that are known for vulnerability to water damages from hurricanes, frequent mold growth due to humidity, and incidents of fire that often result in hidden damages. Hiring an umpire with specialized expertise in these areas aids in a fair, effective resolution of disputes between the insurance company and the policyholder. 

Here's why it's particularly important to hire an umpire with restoration repairs experience for your situation:

Expert Assessment

Insurance claims and service needs pertaining to mold remediation, water damage, and fire or smoke damage are not straightforward issues. An umpire with firsthand knowledge of restoration repairs can accurately evaluate the extent of mold, water, or fire damage, including potential hidden damages and the associated costs.

Understanding of Hidden Damages

Water damage, especially from storms, can lead to problems that aren't immediately visible, such as mold growth, structural weakening, or damage to internal systems. An expert in restoration that has seen these hidden problems in real life will be more adept at identifying these potential issues and will factor this into his appraisal evaluation. 

Appropriate Restoration Techniques

The umpire will be aware of the latest and most effective restoration techniques and standards, ensuring that their recommendations are up-to-date and in line with best practices. This is crucial to getting an accurate estimate and achieving a fair resolution for both parties. 

Efficient Resolution

Knowledgeable umpires can speed up the dispute resolution process since they won't need to spend as much time researching or consulting external experts. This saves on legal costs for both parties, and helps the client return to normalcy quicker while allowing the insurance company to focus on normal business. 

Avoiding Future Disputes

A well-informed decision by an umpire with restoration experience can reduce the likelihood of future disputes. For instance, if an umpire is unfamiliar with restoration and overlooks potential mold growth and then it becomes a problem later, it could lead to another claim or worse, an allegation of a carrier’s failure to include damages or a repair that is necessary.  Because an appraisal of damages is deemed ‘final’, property owners cannot simply re-open these closed files for additional disputes.  The only option for the homeowner for a botched appraisal would be additional litigation which is costly in multiple regards.

Fair Representation of Costs

Restoration experts are familiar with the costs associated with various repair processes, materials, and labor. This knowledge helps ensure that the settled amount is fair and realistic.

Comprehensive Reports

A technically proficient umpire can provide detailed, clear, and comprehensive reports about the damages and repair necessities, which can be crucial if the claim dispute escalates or needs legal resolution.

Practical Advice From the Experts at All Claims:  

• When a client recognizes the significance of hiring an umpire, a common question we receive is what to specifically look for in an umpire. Our standard recommendation is to ask the following questions when assessing the credibility of potential umpires: How long has the umpire has been handling appraisal assignments?
• Does the umpire have any experience in restoration?
• What licenses, if any, does the umpire hold?
• Is the umpire mold certified?
• Is the umpire a licensed general contractor (GC)?
  ‍

Given the complexities associated with restoration damages and the potential for related issues (like mold or structural concerns), hiring an umpire with restoration repairs experience can be invaluable. As a mold certified (MRSR299, MRSA687), state licensed general contractor (CGC 1517916), All Claims Consulting has served as an impartial consultant and handled in excess of 8,000 cases for over 600 clients. Our staff of insurance claims consultants averages decades of experience conducting appraisals, expert witness testimony, mediation, and umpire assignments. If you find yourself with questions or would like to discuss any aspect of the insurance appraisal dispute process, reach out to Tony Allogia at tony@allclaimsrepairs.com.