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Updated over 4 years ago,
Home Fire Claim - Right to Invoices - Dishonest Contractor
Hello, I filed a fire claim with my insurance company (TX). I was pressured (by adjuster) to use their "preferred" contractor to do the work. It was huge mistake hiring insurance preferred vendor. I won't go into each detail as I would be writing a book. I will say that I tried to part ways with the contractor about 1 1/2 month into the project; the adjuster and third party vendor (escrow company, I think) strongly suggested I stay with the vendor or "things wouldn't go well". I did part way with the contractors electrician as he was using salvaged parts to complete the work and initially installed a breaker box on burned studs - to the point the whole box moved . Anyway, fast forward to signing off on work completion. I reviewed the preferred contractors invoice to the insurance, there are many inconsistencies such as, double billing (have recording of contractor stating they purposely double billed to be able to pay for his electrician), billing for materials/labor not provided, and oddly enough a big fat "management" fee for the electrician that I hired/managed and paid deposit. I've asked for subcontractor invoices (the contractor summary invoice to the insurance company states "invoice attached' under several items). Neither the contractor nor insurance company have provided the information (it has been over a month). Now the contractor tells me that homeowners do not have a right to the detailed invoices. Can someone please tell me if this is accurate? One of my concerns is that there is supposed to be a warranty on all work performed (3 years), if there are no invoices for work completed - how do I show proof of what work was actually completed. One of the bigger ticket items (HVAC) is supposed to have a 10 year manufacture warranty but registration clearly states "Customer must retain proof of purchase". I voiced my concerns to the insurance company, provided details and obvious proof (some items double billed on the same invoice!). Unfortunately, it has almost been two weeks and the adjuster has not responded. I do not know what to do. Help/opinions are greatly appreciated.