I had not agree but the insurance still sent me a check – what should I do?

[Ray X.]

The insurance adjuster wrote an estimate and then sent me a check although I told the adjuster I had not agreed with the amount of the damage due to the house water damage. What should I do after I receive the check, return, hold or cash it? Can you advise how to handle that, especially if the adjuster insists on his solution? Thank you.

[Eric Belgau]

Shawn is right. The issue of whether or not you have agreed to the amount isn't particularly relevant because the insurance contract doesn't require the adjuster to get your agreement before referring her valuation to claims settlement.

However, there is a process (set by the state insurance commissioner and therefore somewhat different from state to state) for resolving these issues. As Shawn said, they happen all the time.

First, don't cash the check. Second, let the carrier know that you're going to dispute the settlement. Third, contact independent adjusters (you will have to pay) and collect quotes.

But don't go it alone. Talk to your agent or broker and get them to work on your behalf. I do this frequently: my client has policies with the insurance company, but I have a book of business with them. Even though the sales side is separate from the claims side, there's a bit more motivation for the carrier to listen: they want me to keep writing business with them.

One piece of advice: even if you're angry, keep that out of the conversation. Make your points clear, be friendly toward the people on the other side of your conversations, and make it absolutely clear that you're not going to back down.