6 Common Mistakes Insurance Adjusters Make

Insurance adjusters play a crucial role in the insurance industry by evaluating and settling insurance claims. Their job is to ensure policyholders receive fair compensation for their losses. However, like any profession, insurance adjusting is not immune to errors. Are you looking to be more consistent with adjusting and claims? Here are six common mistakes that insurance adjusters make that you should be aware of.

Inadequate Investigation

Inadequate investigation is one of the most relevant issues in the industry, and it can result in underestimating the extent of damage or the full value of a claim. Adjusters must rigorously examine the evidence, gather all necessary information, and consult experts for accurate assessments. Failing to do so can lead to unfair settlements and unhappy policyholders.

Lack of Systematic Approach

Policyholders may receive varying services and compensation depending on their case. The industry must adopt a more structured and systematic approach to addressing and preventing mistakes. Ultimately, this will improve the overall quality of claims handling.

Biased Assessments

Adjusters must remain impartial and treat all claims equally, regardless of their circumstances. Biased assessments can lead to discrimination and unfair treatment, which harms individuals and damages insurance companies' reputations. 

Neglecting To Document Evidence

Adjusters should keep in-depth records of their investigations and assessments. Forgetting to document evidence can lead to disputes and legal complications. 

Rushing the Process

Insurance adjusters may feel pressured to close claims quickly, leading to rushed decisions. This can result in overlooking important details or failure to investigate a claim as thoroughly as is necessary. Adjusters should prioritize accuracy over speed to ensure fair and just settlements. 

Lack of Preparation for Estimate Writing

The lack of preparation for estimate writing, often due to insufficient training in tools like Xactimate, is a common mistake insurance adjusters make. Xactimate is an important software for estimating property damage repair costs, but many adjusters, particularly newcomers, may not be well-versed in its use. To address this, an independent adjuster should seek out extensive Xactimate training to ensure accurate and consistent estimates. When selecting training courses, consider an in-person class with Pat Bell to maximize your learning experience!