The bitter sting of property damage can become even more painful when a homeowner finds themselves caught in a tangle of insurance claims. These piles of paperwork and bureaucratic hurdles are never more complicated than when it comes to dealing with property insurance. Yet, in this labyrinth, some seasoned experts know how to chart a course securing the rightful compensation for homeowners.
Among them, Neil Roman, a New York-based specialist contractor who’s an ace at handling fire and water restoration projects, stands out the most. Over the years, Roman hasn’t just been fixing properties— with a deep understanding of insurance companies’ tactics to minimize payouts, Roman has served as a trusted guide for countless homeowners through the murky waters of insurance claims.
Roman’s expertise uncovers an unsettling truth: insurance companies often underpay or cut corners, providing the thinnest slice of coverage while pocketing hefty fees. According to Roman, the payout can differ significantly among insurance companies, and an uninformed homeowner can easily be taken advantage of.
For instance, while most homeowners are covered for water damage, many aren’t aware that mold coverage typically requires an additional plan.
“They have 100% coverage for water damage but not for mold. If you don’t specifically request mold coverage, you won’t have it on your plan,” Roman explains.
Moreover, Roman has also seen cases where insurance companies file separate claims for each area of damage, forcing homeowners to pay multiple deductibles. Such instances can leave homeowners significantly out of pocket, highlighting the need for professional assistance in dealing with insurance claims.
“I had an elderly client who reached out due to water damage in her home. When I arrived, I discovered that the previous contractor had made three separate claims on the same day,” Roman shares. “His argument was that each damaged area was caused by a different water source, so the client had to pay for all three claims.”
Property damage, however, often lurks behind the obvious. Water leaks hidden behind wallpapers, unnoticed floor instability, and other concealed issues are frequently overlooked by homeowners. But Roman warns that insurance companies aren’t as lenient – most don’t cover long-term, concealed leaks.
In situations like these, Roman tries to advocate for homeowners whenever possible and negotiate with insurance companies to achieve a fair outcome. “Homeowners should receive the full coverage they’re entitled to under their policies.”
Roman also cautions against making numerous small claims, which could backfire by increasing insurance premiums or hindering future coverage.
“Even if you don’t receive compensation, each claim counts against your record. Multiple claims could result in increased insurance premiums or difficulty securing coverage in the future,” Roman says.
Instead, He advises homeowners to consider the long-term effects before making a series of small claims.
In the often-intricate world of property insurance, a knowledgeable guide like Roman can be the key to unlocking a fair claim. With a keen understanding of the industry, he empowers homeowners, helping them navigate their insurance claims, making the process less complex, more transparent, and ultimately, more beneficial to the homeowner.
As Roman explains, “Many people are unaware of the range of situations their insurance can cover. My mission is to help people understand what kind of coverage they have and in which situations they should submit a claim. Staying educated is key to saving money and protecting your home.”
