Question
Hello,
I reside in a townhome community where the property management company holds the primary insurance policy for all homes. Recently, I experienced water damage in my home and filed a claim with the insurance company. However, I was informed that, as I am not the primary policyholder, they are unable to provide me with the estimate prepared by the adjuster.
Could you please advise on how I can negotiate the bid under these circumstances?
Thank you for your assistance.
Answer
Dealing with an insurance claim in a townhome community where you're not the primary policyholder can definitely be frustrating. Here’s how you can navigate the situation:
1. Start by Talking to the Property Manager
The first step is to have a conversation with your property management company. They hold the policy, so they’re the ones who can get the information from the insurance company. Explain your situation and ask them to provide you with the details from the adjuster’s report. You might want to gently insist on transparency—after all, it’s your home that’s affected.
2. Document Everything
Make sure you have your own evidence of the damage—take plenty of photos and videos. This will be important if there’s any disagreement later on. Also, if possible, get an estimate from a contractor you trust. Having your own estimate gives you something to compare against whatever the insurance adjuster comes up with.
3. Stay Involved
Even though the property management company is technically the one handling the claim, it’s your home, so stay as involved as you can. Keep in regular contact with the management company to make sure the repairs are progressing as they should. If you notice anything that seems off, speak up sooner rather than later.
4. Know Your Rights
Review the HOA or community rules to understand what your rights are. Sometimes these documents can be a little dense, but they often contain important information about insurance claims and what you’re entitled to as a resident.
5. Consider Outside Help if Needed
If things aren’t moving in the right direction, don’t hesitate to consult a lawyer. Sometimes just having a professional on your side can make a big difference in how seriously your concerns are taken.
It’s not a perfect situation, but by being proactive and staying on top of things, you can help ensure that the repairs are done properly and that your home is taken care of.
