Q: Can I hire any contractor I choose?
A: Yes, the law allows you to select any contractor you like. You’re insurance company cannot require you to use specific vendors. It’s also important to note that your insurance company does not guarantee or warranty the work of one of their preferred vendors.
Q: What should I look for in a restoration contractor?
A: There are many things you should look for in a restoration contractor. Here are a few suggestions to get you started.
- Verify an active license with the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). You can do this online at: https://www2.cslb.ca.gov/OnlineServices/CheckLicense/LicenseRequest.asp
- Ask to see copies of insurance certificates. State law requires contractors to carry liability and workman’s compensation.
- Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if they have unresolved complaints and verify their rating.
- Be wary of contractors that over promise. If they are willing to give you far more than the value of your settlement, then it’s a sure bet they are cutting corners elsewhere. An upgraded property is nice, but not worth the risk of compromising the building’s structural integrity and safety. If they are offering upgrades and extras, find out what the trade off is.
Q: This is all new to me; will someone help me along the process?
A: Yes. Our team of experts is very experienced at working with insurance companies, mortgage companies, and public adjusters to ensure that the process runs quickly and smoothly for you. We guide you through the process step-by-step. Any time you have a question, someone in our office is ready and willing to get you an answer.
Q: How long does it take to get started on re-building my property?
A: It largely depends on how quickly your claim is settled with your insurance company. HP Associates, Inc. will work with your carrier and public adjuster to get your claim settled as quickly as possible while ensuring the maximum benefit. For average time frames on each portion of your claim, please see our “Restoration Process Explanation” detail sheet included in your Welcome Packet.
Q: How long will it take for the repairs once construction starts?
A: Construction time depends on the extent of damages sustained to your property. Most projects take two to four months to repair.
Q: Does HP Associates, Inc. have past clients that I can talk to?
A: Yes we do. Your Account Executive has a list they can provide you. As a courtesy to our past clients, we don’t post phone numbers or addresses online. You can also browse past projects on our website.
Q: My situation is unusual. Is there someone I can discuss it with and evaluate my options?
A: Yes, we offer a complementary consultation to review your unique situation and go over your options. Ideally this will take place at the loss site so we can walk the site with you and answer your questions. If you’d like to set up a consultation, please contact our office at (818) 879-5002 and we will schedule a time with you.
Q: I’ve had the same insurance company for years and really like my agent. Shouldn’t I just let the insurance company handle the claim and be done with it?
A: The short answer is no. Your agent is not the person that will be adjusting your claim, and it’s important to remember that this is a business transaction for your carrier. Your carrier will assign a claims adjuster. The claims adjuster is there to negotiate an agreed settlement between you and the carrier. It isn’t in your insurance company’s best interest to pay out the maximum on your claim. In order to maximize your claim, it isn’t in your best interest to let your insurance company handle the repairs.
Q: How do I pay for everything?
A: Your insurance policy will pay for damages covered under your insurance policy. You’ll want to refer to your declarations page of your policy to learn more. To pay for upgrades, HP Associates, Inc. accepts checks, cash, or PayPal.
