BULLETIN
August 1, 2024
Reminders on Supplements and Update on Claims Timeline at Western National
Since June 12, 2024, we have received approximately 620 property and auto claims. Thank you for your partnership in serving our mutual policyholders by helping respond to questions and provide updates as appropriate.
We would like to provide you with important information about supplemental estimates from contractors for storm-related claims, including wind and hail damage.
Supplements
Once a policyholder signs a contract with a contractor, there is a possibility that the contractor will disagree with the scope and/or price for the repairs. A scope difference involves additional damage or unwarranted line items that are not included in our approved estimate. While a price difference is solely related to the cost of repairs.
It is important to remember that an insurance policy is a contract between the policyholder and Western National. We require the policyholder's permission to work with a contractor to discuss repairs. We strive to involve the policyholder when requests for supplements are received, as it is important for our policyholders to understand the process and what is being claimed by the contractor on their behalf. In all cases, we attempt to reach an agreement with the contractor for the approved scope of repairs. In some cases, the supplement request may be egregious and inflated that an agreement cannot be reached. In these cases, we rely on invoices we receive from other contractors showing the local market price for roof work to be completed to support our position.
A reinspection may be required if additional damage is being claimed. We are able to reach an agreement with the contractor in most cases. If the contractor's cost is not reasonable and customary for the market, we will notify the policyholder of the applicable discrepancies. The policy provides coverage for the cost to repair or replace the property (subject to the loss settlement terms and conditions) with like-kind and -quality for the reasonable and customary cost in the local market.
Any supplements, repair of damages, and estimated amounts not listed in our estimate require prior approval. Approval must be obtained prior to repairs being started. We recommend that policyholders provide their contractor with a copy of the estimate we complete and review their contract closely to see if they may be responsible for any amount that we have not approved. To view our previous claims updates and communications, log into AgentsOnline .
How to Report a Claim
Western National offers 24-hour-a-day, 7-days-a-week claims reporting.
Phone: (855) 921-3164
Online Claim Submission:
https://www.wnins.com/claims/
Email: newloss@wnins.com
Please note: If your customer is experiencing an urgent matter requiring immediate attention, such as water leaking into the home, other damage making the home unlivable, or not hearing from an adjuster, please call our Claims Department directly instead of sending an email. This is the fastest way to receive assistance. Once a claim is submitted, your customer can expect to hear from our team within 48 hours.
Thank you for your partnership!
