what insurance does with the personal property list Toni Morrissey asked 1 week ago
what insurance does with the personal property list

I have submitted a detailed list for one room in the form of a spreadsheet.

My adjuster showed me how they will enter the list into their software. There seemed to be two methods — one a detailed pop up that allows you to drag down through a list of rooms, then drag down to select a category of items, and then free text the name of the item and estimated replacement value.

The method the adjuster is using is “quick add” which allows them to click a check box next to the generic name of an item and indicate the quantity.

This means that although I presented a detailed list that includes links to the purchase website with the price and shipping, each item will be listed as a generic item. Some will be entered as “misc”, all with no price. The system will provide the value based on the generic name and quantity.

In one example item, the generic item value seems to be 40x less than the actual replacement cost that I provided (before applying any depreciation).

I am inquiring further, but if we are allowed in my state to provide a spreadsheet, rather than entering the details ourselves into their software, is it acceptable for them to remove all the distinguishing details and enter items as a generic item name?

1 Answers
Answer for what insurance does with the personal property list Alexis Ricci Staff answered 1 week ago

Hi Toni,
Your policy provides coverage for Like, Kind and Quality items, including personal property. It is in your absolute best interest to be as detailed with your personal property item descriptions as possible-the money is in the details.
Your adjuster could be using the ‘quick drop down’ list to quickly determine the loss value of your personal property in order to secure policy limits for you. However, most adjusters are trying to value your claim quickly and without the personal property details, there will be undervaluation and mistakes in your inventory. This will require you to review the priced inventory in detail and resubmit the inventory to the carrier noting mistakes, a process that could happen several times.
We would strongly recommend that you speak with your adjuster about the details of your personal property claim and that you are not OK with them using generic descriptions. You know your personal property best and if you submit distinguishing details to the carrier, they should utilize those details to adjudicate your loss.
Review UP’s personal property inventory tips here:
https://uphelp.org/claim-guidance-publications/10-tips-for-settling-the-contents-portion-of-your-claim/
https://uphelp.org/claim-guidance-publications/sample-letter-asking-for-a-personal-property-claim-settlement/