As I read an appellate opinion about the illegal public adjuster contract, which went viral a day later,1 I kept thinking about how this entire scenario could easily have been avoided. The contract was obviously illegal when I read it. I did not have to wait for the opinion to tell me what any rookie lawyer should have known. 

Continue Reading Public Adjuster Warning—Do Not Make Illegal Contracts

Should I stay or should I go? This pivotal question is one many of us grapple with in our relationships. Everyone in long-term bonds will, at some point, confront moments of doubt or uncertainty. I believe it is essential for individuals to reflect on the underlying reasons for these feelings. A critical question to consider is, “Why am I in this relationship?” By understanding the purpose and fulfillment derived from the relationship, you can make more informed decisions about its future implications, whether you stay, leave, or change.

While interviewing Tim Woodard over the past two weeks, I returned to these thoughts about staying or leaving relationships. For public adjusters, “Why should you join an association? What do you get out of it? Why join one versus another?”  

Continue Reading Tim Woodard—Public Adjuster Spotlight 

Steve Patrick inspired me to write today’s post. In Level The Playing Field, he commented that “adjusters are persuaded by those they like, trust, and respect – just like prospects do with sales professionals. This is human nature.”  

Continue Reading Adjusters, Appraisers, and Umpires: The Power of Trust, Respect, and Likability in Property Insurance Claims Handling and Appraisals

Do insurance companies support training for their claims adjusters and managers to promote good faith and ethical claims handling? Barry Zalma recently stated in his September 1st insurance industry newsletter, Zalma’s Insurance Fraud Letter, the following:

Continue Reading Insurance Fraud By Insurers—Do Insurance Companies Live, Teach, and Promote a Culture of Ethical Good Faith?

Two recent articles, Insurers Gave Ron DeSantis Millions. He Made It Harder to Sue Them, and DeSantis’ New Insurance Law Could Make It Harder to Rebuild After Hurricane Idalia, underscore how new insurance laws, supported by deals DeSantis made with Florida’s insurance industry, will make it more difficult for common folks to force insurance companies to pay what is owed. These articles correctly noted:

Continue Reading Media Calls Out Florida’s Politicians and DeSantis For Selling Out To Insurers—The Maddening Reality For Hurricane Idalia Victims

The Windstorm Insurance Network, its members, officers, and board members deserve a huge shout-out. The WIND website lists donations to those suffering from disasters for almost 20 years. The most recent donation is for the tragic Maui wildfires:

Continue Reading The Windstorm Insurance Network Has A Long History of Donating To Catastrophe Victims

To determine whether the appraisal award must apportion items line by line, the appraisal panel should first read the policy. The panel should also consider state law on the issue. The answer to the title’s question is… “It depends on policy language and state law.”

Continue Reading Does The Appraisal Award Need to Itemize and Allocate Damage for Each Line Item?

Happy Labor Day! Labor Day has its roots in the late 19th century when labor activists pushed for a federal holiday to recognize the contributions of workers. The first Labor Day parade occurred in New York City on Tuesday, September 5, 1882. It was organized by the Central Labor Union, and approximately 10,000 workers marched through the city streets, holding banners and advocating for worker’s rights. Wikipedia notes:

Continue Reading Is Milk Spoiled By A Labor Strike Covered Under Commercial Insurance?

In the wake of Hurricane Idalia homeowners who have never filed a claim with their insurance carriers will be treading new ground. We have experience working with insurance carriers, and unfortunately, the carriers sometimes do not perform as they are required by the company’s own contract and Georgia Law. We are experts in this area of law and have attorneys ready to help you with any questions, concerns, and guidance through the process.

Continue Reading Following Idalia: How to report Delayed, Denied, and Unfair Treatment by Your Insurance Company in Georgia