Accredited Insurance Adjusters start by visually inspecting the property after a hailstorm. They will look at all exterior surfaces for signs of damage including a home’s roof, siding, windows, gutters and other vulnerable areas for dents, cracks, or other indications of hail impact.

The roof is often the most susceptible part of a structure during a hailstorm. Insurance adjusters employ a trained eye to assess roofing materials for damage. This may involve checking for bruising or cracking in asphalt shingles, metal surfaces, or tile roofs. Special attention is paid to identifying granule loss on asphalt shingles, a common consequence of hail impact. Some inspectors may use chalk to determine the depth of the hail stone hit.

Embracing technology has revolutionized the way insurance adjusters can investigate hail damage. Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras provide a bird’s-eye view of the property, enabling accredited insurance adjusters to identify damage in difficult-to-reach areas. Additionally, infrared technology helps spot hidden damage by detecting temperature differentials caused by compromised roofing materials.

Siding and windows are often the first line of defense against hail. Adjusters inspect these surfaces for dents, cracks, or chipping. They consider the type of siding material and its susceptibility to damage, such as the impact resistance of vinyl siding compared to stucco or wood.

Understanding the characteristics of the hailstorm itself is critical to a successful hailstorm investigation. Adjusters take note of the size and density of the hailstones, as larger stones can cause more severe damage. They look at prior weather reports, any news coverage, and photos the property owner may have taken. Furthermore, assessing the direction of the storm helps determine which sides of the property were more exposed and likely had more significant hail impact.

Some accredited claims adjusters may take this a step further and collaborate with meteorologists. By obtaining specific detailed weather data, including the duration and intensity of the hailstorm, adjusters can correlate the information with the observed damage. This collaboration ensures a more precise determination of whether the damage is consistent with the reported weather conditions.

Regardless of the kind of insurance claim, accredited claim adjusters thoroughly document their investigation. Insurance adjusters meticulously record their findings, including photographs, notes, and measurements. This documentation serves as a detailed record for both the insurance company and the policyholder, facilitating a transparent and accurate claims process.

Beyond visible signs, accredited claims adjusters evaluate whether the hail damage compromises the functionality of the property. This includes assessing structural integrity, water tightness, and potential long-term issues that may arise due to the hail impact. Such a holistic approach ensures that policyholders receive fair compensation for both immediate and future concerns.

Accredited claims adjusters take the time to explain their findings to policyholders in a clear and empathetic manner. This includes discussing the extent of the damage, the claims process, and addressing any concerns the policyholder may have. A transparent and respectful approach fosters trust and helps ease the stress often associated with filing an insurance claim.

Following the investigation, accredited claims adjusters provide recommendations for necessary repairs or replacements. This may involve collaboration with contractors and restoration specialists to ensure that the policyholder’s property is restored to its pre-hailstorm condition. By offering guidance on the appropriate course of action, adjusters contribute to the claim resolution, having a part in each step along the way.

For more information on how to earn your 6-20 ACA designation and join this growing field, we invite you to call our Clermont, Florida office at 1-800-309-2459 or read more about the accredited claims adjuster certification process on our website. Beyond our ACA courses, we have partnerships that allow our students to continue learning best practices when handling claims so the adjusters can continue growing their career.

In Florida, once an individual earns their 6-20 accredited claims adjuster designation, they can apply to the state for their all-lines adjuster license. This will enable individuals to work on home insurance claims, auto and RV insurance claims and property insurance claims. Accredited Insurance Adjusters have the flexibility to work as a staff claims adjuster or an independent insurance adjuster.

Even if the adjuster moves out of the state of Florida or their practice takes them out of state, Florida has a reciprocity agreement with other states within the U.S. Individuals who obtain their Florida license are eligible to work in 34 of the 37 states across the U.S. that require an adjuster license.

Ready to take the next step in helping storm victims become whole again? Contact us today for details on how we can get you started on your 6-20 ACA Designation! Call us at 1-800-309-2549.