I hear you on the weird documentation requests. Last year after a hailstorm, my neighbor had to send in a photo of his attic insulation—like, what does that have to do with shingle damage? He tried pushing back, but honestly, it just dragged things out. In the end, he gave them what they wanted and got paid faster. I get why people want to fight it, but from what I’ve seen, insurance companies are stubborn about their process. They’ll just keep asking until you give in or give up.
That said, I’ve heard of folks getting somewhere if they’re really persistent and know their policy inside out. One guy I worked with actually got an adjuster to drop a couple of requests after quoting specific policy language at them. But most people don’t have the time or patience for that level of back-and-forth.
It’s frustrating because it feels like they’re hoping you’ll miss something so they can deny part of the claim. I get being thorough, but some of these hoops seem pointless. Has anyone ever had an adjuster actually explain why they need all these extra photos? Or is it just “company policy” every time? Sometimes I wonder if it’s different depending on where you live or which company you’re dealing with...
Has anyone ever had an adjuster actually explain why they need all these extra photos? Or is it just “company policy” every time?
I’ve never gotten a straight answer, just the usual “it’s required for our records.” Once I asked if attic pics were really necessary for a roof claim and the adjuster just said it helps them “document the full extent of possible damage.” Not super helpful. I do wonder if it’s partly to check for pre-existing issues or insulation problems that could affect coverage. It does seem to vary by company—my cousin in another state barely had to send anything in for the same kind of storm. Maybe it depends on how strict your insurer is or even who you get as your adjuster that day.
Yeah, I’ve run into the same thing—one adjuster wanted pics of my crawlspace for hail damage on my roof. I was like, “Are you checking for secret hailstones hiding under there?” Honestly, I think half the time they’re just covering their bases in case something comes up later. My neighbor’s insurance barely asked for anything, but mine wanted a whole photo album. Seems like it’s a roll of the dice who you get and how picky they are.
Seems like it’s a roll of the dice who you get and how picky they are.
I’ve seen this too—one property, adjuster wanted drone shots, attic pics, the whole nine yards. Another time, just two photos and done. It really does feel random. I get why they’re thorough, but it can be a headache. At least you know you’re not alone in the photo scavenger hunt…
Yeah, I’ve run into this too. Sometimes the adjuster barely glances at the roof, and other times they want every angle, inside and out. Had one ask for a video walkthrough of the attic—felt like overkill, but I get it, they’re just covering their bases. Still, it’s frustrating when you’re juggling multiple properties and every claim is a different process. Makes it tough to set expectations with owners or tenants. Just wish there was a bit more consistency...