What’s a Public Adjuster? Knowing One Might Save Your Rental (Episode 343)

Don’t Miss This Invaluable Advice for Managing STR Insurance Claims

Today’s expert guest is Gwynne Beatty, a specialist in property damage claims, water restoration, mold remediation, maximizing your claim, and managing the repair process for residential and commercial properties. She’s here to pull back the curtain on the claims process and give you the knowledge and tools you need if (and when) you find yourself with property damage. 

She’s a public adjuster (don’t worry, we learn all about what that means) and has tons of secrets to share today as she answers critically misunderstood questions like… Should your insurance agent make your claim? What words should you use, and avoid, when inquiring about damage? Who gets paid – when, why, and how much?

Insurance may seem like a dry topic, but you will be blown away by what you learn from this conversation. Gwynne is truly the kind of collaborator, professionally and personally, you want to have in your corner when the time comes to lace up your gloves vs. an insurance giant. 

Public Adjusters and Your Short-Term Rental: What You Need to Know

  1. Role and Benefits: Public adjusters are professionals who manage insurance claims on behalf of the property owner, ensuring that claims are fairly settled. They can significantly increase the payout from claims, as their expertise allows them to identify and argue for a more comprehensive settlement than a property owner might receive otherwise.
  2. When to Hire: We recommend you have a public adjuster in your contacts before you encounter property damage. Early involvement can lead to quicker and more efficient handling of claims.
  3. Compensation: Public adjusters are typically paid a percentage of the claim settlement, which varies by state. This fee structure motivates them to maximize the claim payout.
  4. Insurance Negotiations: They challenge the initial assessments by insurance companies, who often aim to minimize payouts. Public adjusters reevaluate the damage and negotiate for a higher settlement.

Public Adjusters for Airbnb Hosts: Episode Timestamps

(00:01:24) #STRShareSunday: @StayOldTownRoad

  • Shout out to Daniel and Katelyn Quanz
  • Keeping it personal, keeping it real
  • Showing off a 3D layout of the listing

(00:03:02) Gwynne Drops Truth Bombs About STR Damage Claims

  • The biggest overlooked mystery in short-term rentals
  • What is a public adjuster?
  • The insurance company is not your friend
  • What is the process for making a claim? 

(00:07:29) Learn the Basics of Vacation Rental Insurance Claims

  • Determining which type of claim you have
  • Three different terms for water damage (important!)
  • Public adjuster fee structures 
  • Tips for finding a reputable insurance adjuster in your area
  • How long does the process take? 
  • Find out of your policy includes Appraisal Demand

(00:17:39) Understanding Insurance & Your STR Business

  • What kinds of policies are available? 
  • Finding an insurance carrier 
  • Learn how to read your policy 
  • Getting paid for Lost Rent due to damages 
  • How to start a working relationship with an adjuster  
  • Should your insurance agent file your claim?

(00:27:15) Example STR Damage Claim Scenario 

  • Step-by-step guide to managing damage 
  • Cabinet damage matching 
  • Working with a restoration company
  • How a valid claim is initially determined
  • Benefit to keeping a clean CLUE Report
  • Real-life successful claims from Gwynne’s work 

(00:40:36) Can You Reopen an Old (Unfair) Insurance Settlement?

  • Two years to file a claim in most states 
  • Understanding tricky insurance language 
  • Roofing damage matching 
  • Adjusting your policy after replacements

Download a transcript of this episode.

Resources:

#STRShareSunday

@StayOldTownRoad

This week’s #STRShareSunday spotlight shines in Albuquerque, New Mexico. @StayOldTownRoad is a collection of homes filled with history and charm. These homes were originally built as a farmer’s family compound and now they offer guests a quiet place to relax and explore, having been restored to honor their past and provide a place for couples or small groups to come to enjoy Albuquerque.

The whole operation is run by our friends Daniel and Katelyn Quanz, who are members (and stars) of our Hosting Business Mastery Method group, and have done a great job on social keeping in personal and sharing their own journey while including informative 3D rendering of their available spaces.

We would love to feature YOU, so don’t forget to use #STRShareSunday to get your chance!

Together, Annette & Sarah are the dynamic duo behind the wildly popular podcast Thanks For Visiting, co-creators of the Hosting Business Mastery Method, & seasoned short-term-rental hosts.

Meet Your Hosts

Reply...

keep listening...