Claims Adjuster

About the role

The Claims Adjuster I reviews claims related to property damage or loss. This position reports to the Claims Team Lead and works with various experts during the claims process to obtain accurate assessments and support in claims decisions. The Claims Adjuster I partners with Claims Trainer and Claims Team Lead to interpret the terms and conditions of insurance policies to determine coverage and exclusions applicable to each claim. This position also engages with policyholders to gather information, provide updates on the status of claims, and explain the claims process and decisions.

HomeFirst® Agency is a leading insurance agency offering a wide range of insurance products from nationally-known insurance companies to protect your home, property and life. We strive to help customers find the right insurance products to fit their needs at competitive rates. Located in Maryville, Tennessee, we offer homeowners insurance to customers nationwide, and insurance to protect your other property and life in select states. For over 20 years, we have helped customers with their insurance needs. Today, we have more than 180,000 customers.

Responsibilities

• Maintains accurate and detailed notes regarding interactions, decisions, and actions taken throughout a claim.
• Partners with Claims Team Lead and Trainers to review, evaluate, and investigate photos, estimates, forms, receipts, inspection reports, and official reports presented on a claim.
• Reviews, partners, and processes property damage claims submitted by policyholders.
• Reviews insurance policies to determine coverage by working with Claims Trainers and leadership to interpret and apply policy provisions to claims under consideration based on coverage and investigation findings.
• Conducts, records, and interviews with those insured to secure information regarding personal loss.
• Works with claimants or representatives of claimants (contractors, public adjusters, attorneys, or other legal representatives) to gather necessary information regarding the claim and to negotiate fair and equitable settlements, overseen by Claims Team Lead.
• Collaborates with other insurance carriers as needed regarding duplicate claims and coverage.
• Selects and assigns claims for inspections.
• Requests and issues settlement checks with explanation letters based on policy terms and investigation findings, with limited authority.
• Prepares and issues denial letters to claimants, clearly outlining the reasons for denial based on policy terms and investigation findings.
• Identifies potential fraudulent claims and refers for additional investigation as warranted.
• Ensures claims handling complies with company and regulatory policies.
• Escalates complex insurance claims to management and legal teams including those subject to complaints and litigation.
• Consults with Claims Team Leads to resolve disagreements with a claim, utilizing alternative dispute resolutions (arbitration, appraisal, and mediation).
• Collaborates with management on arbitration, appraisal, and mediations.
• Maintains workflow