Rick Patrick
rick@greenepublishing.com
After spending several years working in both private sector and government in the realm of project management and mediation, Matthew Andress found himself at a crossroads. As a way of making ends meet, he was working with an excavation company. While riding to work on a job, he found himself speaking with someone with a background in insurance. This conversation led Andress to move into the area of insurance adjusting. From this conversation, the seeds for Mockingbird Public Adjusting were planted. For Andress, his varied background was good preparation for work as a public adjuster, helping ensure customers receive settlements that are fair for both the customer and the insurance company. “My experience as a mediator and in working with contracts has been valuable in this work as a public adjuster,” said Andress.
With hurricane season just around the corner, having a public adjuster in your corner can make a big difference when insurance claims are concerned. “Studies and real-world experience show that claims handled with a public adjuster result in larger and faster settlement resolution,” added Andress. “More than that, we offer clarity, guidance and peace of mind during a time of stress and uncertainty.” Working with a public adjuster can be a great help with documenting a loss and negotiating a settlement that is fair.
In addition to being prepared in terms of having emergency supplies and boarding up windows, there are other considerations homeowners should keep in mind. Among them are:
• Have a clear understanding of your insurance policy in terms of what is covered and what is not. Mockingbird Public Adjusting offers a free, no obligation policy review to help you fully understand the details of your policy.
• Take clear, time-stamped photos of your home, both inside and out. Pay attention to baseboards, ceilings, windows, AC units, the roof and any outdoor structures. The more evidence you can show before a storm, the stronger your case will be after a storm.
• Make connections with various services such as tree removal, electricians, roofers, etc. Remember, it is best to use local businesses. This should also be said about making a connection with a trusted public adjuster.
After a storm and you have suffered damage, there are some important considerations to keep in mind then, as well. Some of these are:
• Document your loss with time-stamped photos immediately. Even minor details can make a big difference when proving your case.
• Contact a trusted public adjuster who can help you navigate the path of filing a claim, documenting a loss or just answer some of the many questions you may have.
• Protect your property, but don’t begin major repairs before inspection and a claim approval from your insurance company.
• If you have already filed a claim, it isn’t too late to benefit from the services of a public adjuster. “No matter where in the process a claim may be, we can help,” said Andress.
• Don’t hesitate to file a claim out of fear of rising premiums. In most cases, premiums will not increase, simply because a claim has been filed. Remember, your deductible is subtracted from the final payout. You are not expected to put up that amount before repairs are begun.
Just as it is important to work with locals whenever possible, you should work with a public adjuster who is local. After a big storm, adjusters may come from many areas. It is always better to work with someone you know and trust, who is also a neighbor. “When you hire Mockingbird, you are hiring me,” added Andress.
Andress and his wife Lia Dominique, have lived in Madison since they moved here from Jacksonville in 2016. They have two children: Lucia, age 15 and Sam, age 12.
Mockingbird Public Adjusting can be reached at (850) 272-3111. You can also visit their website at www.mockingbirdpa.com.