Property Claims Adjuster

Norfolk & Dedham Insurance•Montpelier, VT

2d•$62,000 - $82,000

About The Position

The Property Claims Adjuster is responsible for examining claims forms and records to determine insurance coverage applicability and extent. This role involves maintaining accurate claim file reserves, noting policy limits, deductibles, and contract terms. The adjuster will process claims for personal and commercial policyholders, conduct interviews, take recorded statements, and correspond with relevant parties. They will estimate the value of losses, inspect property damage when necessary, and review claims for fraudulent information. The position requires preparing reports, negotiating settlements, and compiling documentation according to company best practices. Additionally, the adjuster will maintain claim file diaries, assess claims considering subrogation, salvage, depreciation, and other factors, and communicate with insureds and agents throughout the process. Collaboration with supervisors, other claims staff, and independent adjusters is expected. The role also includes participating in performance feedback sessions, assisting with training new adjusters, and ensuring compliance with licensing and fair claims practice laws.

Requirements

Associates degree or equivalent education and experience.
Valid Claims Adjuster’s license in the State of Vermont and other states when applicable.
Well-developed business acumen.
Ability to multi-task and handle numerous assignments simultaneously.
A process thinker seeking productivity and exceptional service.
Excellent verbal, telephone, and written communication skills.
Ability to work well in a team environment; willing to share knowledge with others.
A professional, positive and enthusiastic attitude.
Advanced computer skills.
Excellent listening and feedback skills; strong negotiation skills.
Good problem solving skills; ability to make decisions independently.
Effective training skills.
Available to work beyond normal business hours when necessary.

Nice To Haves

AIC, CPCU, CIC, or other insurance designations

Responsibilities

Examine claims forms and records to determine insurance coverage applicability and extent, including maintaining timely and accurate claim file reserves, noting policy limits, deductibles, form endorsements, contract terms, and other essential forms and documents.
Process insurance claims for both personal and commercial policyholders within 24 hours of initial report by phone or by mail if contact cannot be made.
Conduct interviews, taking recorded statements.
Correspond with insureds/claimants and witnesses.
Consult police records to gain accurate information regarding the claim.
Estimate value of loss based on information provided, including photographs, statements, police reports and estimates, verifying estimates with company-approved estimating software.
Inspect property damage, when necessary, to determine extent of Company’s liability.
Review all claims for fraudulent or contradictory information.
Prepare report of findings and negotiate settlement with insured, claimant, attorney and/or other representative, explaining coverage as it applies to settlement.
Compile all documentation and reports to ensure an accurate and complete claim file, using Company best practices.
Maintain up-to-date diary and tasks within claim file.
Assess claim in consideration of subrogation, salvage and recovery, depreciation, replacement costs, restitution, estimates of independent contractors, estimating software, and other tools provided.
Communicate with insured and agent during the claim investigation and settlement.
Confer regularly with supervisors, other claims staff and other Company personnel to plan and coordinate activities, exchange information, resolve problems, etc.
Reassign and work with Independent Adjusters based on the guidelines of reassignment of claims and the approval of the Claims Staff.
Participate in monthly Claims Monitoring for performance feedback; adjust performance based on feedback.
Assist supervisors in training new claims adjusters and in overseeing the daily work of junior adjusters.
Act in compliance with all licensing, fair claims practice laws and regulations.