KEY TAKEAWAY:
--Adjusters must ensure open channels of communication, go the extra mile in providing information, commit to continued professional development and use cutting-edge technology to maximize claims efficiency.
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With the weather heating up, severe hailstorms abound. For insurance claims adjusters, this means preparing for an influx of claims. 6.2 million properties in the U.S. experienced one or more damaging hail events in 2020, with Texas, Nebraska and Minnesota the top three states, making these warm months a very busy time in the entire middle U.S.
To handle the high volume of claims effectively, adjusters need to be well-prepared and have the necessary tools and resources at their disposal. Here are a few tips to support the claims process during one of the busiest insurance seasons of the year.
Ensure Communication Channels Are Open and Efficient
Hail is more unpredictable than a snowstorm or hurricane, and people in high-risk areas never know when their property or home could fall victim. As the one they turn to during a crisis, insurers must have open and efficient communication channels in place so policyholders feel that an experienced individual is available during the chaos and uncertainty of a hail disaster.
This includes having a reliable phone and email systems where questions are promptly responded to, as well as using specialized digital communication tools supplied by an insurtech solutions provider. One-third of consumers do not trust insurance companies, in general. By keeping communication channels open and responsive, claims adjusters can ensure that policyholders receive timely, accurate information about the status of their claim as well as build trust and confidence.
Be Transparent in All Customer Touchpoints
Transparency is crucial because individuals and organizations filing claims are putting their trust in the process and expecting to receive the benefits they are entitled to. Lack of transparency can lead to misunderstandings, disputes and even legal action, which is why it's crucial to provide clear guidelines and expectations from the start, giving clients a sense of calm clarity during the confusion that can follow when experiencing a claim.
Transparency promotes accountability among claims processors, ensuring that they follow established procedures and make decisions based on objective criteria rather than personal bias or favoritism. Ultimately, a transparent claims process promotes trust, efficiency and confidence in the system, which benefits both policyholders and the organizations responsible for administering the process.
See also: Property Underwriting for Extreme Weather
Be Dedicated to Continued Learning and Development
Hailstorms are unpredictable, but the claims process doesn't have to be. To remain ready to handle the high volume of claims that come in during hail season, adjusters need to be well-trained on all fronts. This includes staying ahead of the curve on the most up-to-date tools and resources available to assess and document hail damage, as well as engaging in training on best practices for assessing damages effectively.
Consider taking continuing education courses that can help improve your success as an adjuster and obtaining additional certifications. Always strive to increase your knowledge. Maintaining your license is one thing, but, because the insurance industry is ever-evolving, it is vital to stay informed about industry changes.
Use Technology to Streamline Claims
Advances in technology have made it easier than ever for adjusters to document and process claims quickly and accurately. From digital imaging tools to centralized systems and mobile apps that allow adjusters to assess and document damage on-site, technology can help streamline the claims process. By embracing insurtech advancements, claims adjusters can reduce time spent processing claims while improving the customer experience.
Become a force in the insurance industry by ensuring open channels of communication during uncertain times, going the extra mile in providing information, committing to continued professional development and using the power of cutting-edge technology to maximize claims efficiency. Powerful and strategic partnerships can help your business stay on top of the industry, so even the most unexpected hail scenario won’t dent your confidence in the service you provide clients.
