The insured felt like she did everything right. She insured the ring when she bought it, kept it scheduled on her policy, kept up with maintenance, and filed a claim right away when it was stolen. She even submitted the original appraisal for $22,000 so the insurance company would know how much to write on the check. So she was shocked when the insurance payout was only $14,000. Apparently diamonds are cheaper today, but she thinks: "shouldn't the appraisal lock in the cost?" Notable Timestamps

[ 00:45 ] - An insured may assume an appraisal amount guarantees payout, but jewelry claims often hinge on policy type and current replacement cost, not the dollar figure listed on the appraisal.

[ 02:00 ] - Jewelry appraisals lack a single governing standard; credentials vary widely, making it critical for carriers to evaluate who prepared the appraisal and whether it meets insurer expectations.

[ 04:20 ] - Premiums may be based on a scheduled value, yet replacement cost policies aim to restore the item itself, which can result in payouts lower or higher than the original appraisal.

[ 06:10 ] - Clear communication from agents and adjusters about agreed value versus replacement cost policies can prevent frustration and disputes when a jewelry claim is settled.

[ 08:10 ] - Replacement cost focuses on replicating the exact item—cut, color, clarity, and materials rather than paying the appraisal number, which can change with market conditions.

[ 09:30 ] - It is the insured's responsibility to keep appraisals updated; insurers do not automatically adjust jewelry values for inflation or market shifts in metals and gemstones.

[ 11:40 ] - Outdated or inflated appraisals can create claim friction, while modern update tools and reminders help carriers reduce underinsurance and improve customer satisfaction.

[ 14:45 ] - Early education about policy limits, valuation methods, and appraisal updates builds trust, supports smoother claims handling, and leads to a more positive claims experience.

[ 17:12 ] - Brennan summarizes the key points above.

Your PLRB Resources

CE Course: Jewelry Valuation & Adjustment - https://members.plrb.org/education/courses/jewelry-valuation-amp-adjustment

Coverage Question: Agreed Value Settlement For Repair Of Jewelry - https://www.plrb.org/documents/wedding-ring-diamond-replaced-w-o-notifying-insurer-acv-for-original-ring-pcq-2009-10-08/?search=diamond%20value https://members.plrb.org/education/courses/a-deep-dive-into-a-premises-liability-claim-part-1

Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company.

Subscribe to this Podcast

Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app

YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb

LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau"

Send us your Scenario!

Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to [email protected].

Legal Information

The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate.

Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).

Swine & Dine Farms underwent a devastating loss when a ventilation system shut off, resulting in the deaths of 2,400 hogs. Swine & Dine didn't own the hogs: they were contract growers raising the hogs for an "integrator," the contract owner of the animals who is not suing for the value of the lost hogs. What liability coverage is available for these folks? Notable Timestamps

[ 00:41 ] - A ventilation failure led to the suffocation of thousands of hogs raised by a Contract Grower.

[ 04:47 ] - This scenario centers on farm commercial liability policies, not property coverage.

[ 05:20 ] - Standard farm liability forms often exclude damage to property in the insured's care, custody, or control, with narrow exceptions that may not fit contract grower operations.

[ 07:45 ] - Adjusters should obtain and closely review the grower–integrator contract, as it may define ownership, responsibilities, and procedures that directly affect liability and coverage.

[ 08:46 ] - Force majeure clauses can limit or eliminate liability when losses arise from events beyond a party's reasonable control, but their applicability depends on precise contract language.

[ 11:08 ] - Coverage and defense issues may diverge, requiring careful coordination when contracts include provisions that could waive recovery even if coverage defenses exist.

[ 12:51 ] - Brennan summarizes the key points above.

Your PLRB Resources

Recorded Webinar: Farm Bureau Town Hall Meeting - https://members.plrb.org/education/courses/farm-bureau-town-hall-meeting

CE Course: Specialized Equipment Losses - https://members.plrb.org/education/courses/specialized-equipment-losses

Listeners can email [email protected] for help navigating resources, requesting new content, or getting tailored curriculum support.

Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company.

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Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to [email protected].

Legal Information

The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate.

Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).

As you prepare your new year's resolutions, take a moment to ask, "What's your elevator pitch?" This holiday week, we're sharing a classic episode featuring an inspirational and thought-provoking scenario that you can bring into your personal and professional life.

A claims adjuster is out at a party when they are asked: "So, what do you do for a living?" Our adjuster responds with just: "I'm in insurance claims." That's an "Oh no" moment. Turns out their cousin had a terrible experience on a claim and our adjuster is going to hear all about it, ending in: "You claims people are all cheaters!"

Notable Timestamps

[ 00:36 ] - Today's scenario begins as an interpersonal encounter about explaining your career in insurance, but the elevator pitch is applicable even on claims.

[ 02:05 ] - What our claims professional needed was an elevator pitch: a succinct, prepared, organized response. Whether at a party or at a claims site, our adjuster wants to know how to summarize their thoughts in a persuasive way. Ding Ding! Your elevator's here! Are you ready?

[ 02:30 ] - Mike was asked: "what's your elevator pitch?" That was an "oh no" moment...

[ 03:35 ] - An elevator pitch is a simple presentation that you give in the time it would take to ride an elevator: around 30 seconds.

[ 04:18 ] - 1. Grab 'em at the beginning. Get their attention with a great opening.

[ 04:25 ] - 2. Tell 'em what you're gonna tell 'em. Be organized in your thought process.

[ 04:32 ] - 3. Hit 'em with your bid conclusion/sell/ask. Be brief and practiced.

[ 05:11 ] - Alissha: "So, what do you do for a living?" Mike: 1. "I allow you to take the risks to make life worth living." 2. "Without insurance, you wouldn't be able to insure your home or car." 3. "We step in when bad things happen and we hope to get people back on their feet."

[ 09:15 ] - Be prepared, be organized, be succinct.

[ 10:00 ] - Let's say an insured has suffered a casualty loss. How can an elevator pitch help? 1. "I'm so sorry that this happened." Take a moment to express sincere empathy. 2. Review the medical records / facts. 3. "I know that this has impacted your life, so how about we take care of your damages?"

[ 11:50 ] - What's the pitch for a hurricane loss? Again, start off with an emotional connection. Second, spell out the steps to get them back into the place they were before the accident. Third, conclude with the ask and what you need for the next steps.

[ 13:35 ] - Mike applies the elevator pitch to auto claims handling.

[ 15:42 ] - Mike provides a recap of the scenario and the points above.

Your PLRB Resources

Mike's PLRB Presents presentation on this topic: https://www.plrb.org/courses/pitching-in-an-elevator-2/lessons/pitching-in-an-elevator/

Webinar: Designing & Delivering Effective Business Presentations - https://www.plrb.org/courses/designing-delivering-effective-business-presentations/lessons/designing-delivering-effective-business-presentations/

Claims Chat: Why Should You Consider Claims as a Career? - https://www.plrb.org/courses/why-should-you-consider-claims-as-a-career/lessons/why-should-you-consider-claims-as-a-career/

Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company.

Subscribe to this Podcast

Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app

YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb

LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau"

Send us your Scenario!

Please reach out to us with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to [email protected].

Sponsorship

PLRB thanks SERVPRO Restoration for its Diamond Sponsorship of the 2025 Claims Conference. "The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration We have more than 50 years of experience in the cleanup and restoration industry." Visit servpro.com!

Legal Information

The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate.

Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).

During this time of year as many people are exchanging presents, I'm sure you're all wondering exactly how those various gadgets would be classified under the HO3 policy. So for this holiday week, we're sharing a classic episode featuring an excellent coverage scenario.

The insured, a father of 4, was out buying Christmas gifts for his children. This year he decided to splurge and buy each of them a drone and an Apple Watch. On his way back home, he stopped to get gas, and when he went into the minimart for coffee, a thief stole everything out of the back seat. The insured notified the police and submitted a claim under his ISO 1991-edition HO3. The adjuster considers this to be a covered Theft loss, but she knows there are specific provisions in the policy for watches and aircraft.

Notable Timestamps

[ 00:17 ] - A theft claim is submitted for four drones and four smartwatches under the 1991 HO3. The question arises whether special provisions for aircraft and watches applies.

[ 01:27 ] - The team debates the merits of drones and smartwatches, their capabilities for wall damage and dog-scaring, and the wisdom of being notified emails the instant they are received.

[ 03:09 ] - A $1,000 special limit of liability applies to theft of "watches." Is an Apple Watch a watch?

[ 03:42 ] - Alissha argues that smartwatches are too different from a basic time-telling watch, and is more like a phone. Smartwatches were likely not part of the original policy intent.

[ 04:55 ] - Mike argues that it's called an "Apple Watch" -- its makers and users consider it a watch, even if it's more complex.

[ 06:05 ] - The group quotes Shakespeare and Merriam-Webster; it tells the time and it's on your wrist, so…

[ 06:30 ] - Grassie v. Merrimack Mut. Fire Ins. Co., 291 A.2d 254 (N.H. 1972) (watches that were inoperable and kept in display case were still subject to special limit of liability for theft of watches).

[ 07:00 ] - Ambiguities are construed in favor of the insured. So both sides need to hire a good lawyer.

[ 07:52 ] - How would the policy treat an iPhone strapped to your arm? Coverage C would likely provide full coverage for a smartphone.

[ 09:51 ] - "Property Not Covered" includes "aircraft"… but "model or hobby aircraft not used or designed to carry people or cargo" are covered.

[ 10:20 ] - Toy drones likely fall under hobby aircraft.

[ 11:15 ] - This scenario looked at what's covered property, but a drone could also be a covered cause of loss, even if it destroys itself.

[ 12:40 ] - Unlike BP and CP forms, there's no concern about the loss happening off-premises; homeowners get worldwide coverage for Coverage C.

[ 14:19 ] - In the 2022 ISO form, a $2,000 special limit of liability applies to model or hobby aircraft.

[ 15:51 ] - Under the recovered property provision, if the thief is caught after the amount is paid, the insured can choose to return the payment or have the insurer salvage the goods.

[ 18:00 ] - Tim provides a recap of the scenario and the points above.

Your PLRB Resources

FAQ, Drones and First Party Property Coverage, http://search.plrb.org/?DN=60514

FAQ, Is a Drone an Aircraft Under the CGL Policy?, http://search.plrb.org/?DN=56440

Coverage Question on "Is An Apple Watch Considered A Watch Or A Computer?" - https://search.plrb.org/?dn=58826&src=gsa

Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/container.cfm?conlink=sec/cq/default.cfm) at no additional charge to you or your company.

Subscribe to this Podcast

Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app

YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb

LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau"

Send us your Scenario!

Please reach out to us with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to [email protected].

Sponsorship

PLRB thanks SERVPRO Restoration for its Diamond Sponsorship of the 2025 Claims Conference. "The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration We have more than 50 years of experience in the cleanup and restoration industry." Visit servpro.com!

Legal Information

The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate.

Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License.

Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1.

Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription).

Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).

Sod's Country Farms was raising 65,000 chickens when a fire burned down the poultry house. After a detailed investigation, the cause of the fire was undetermined. To further complicate matters, Sod's Country Farms didn't even own the chickens themselves, but raised them for a vendor. They want to know if the property loss of the animals is covered-- and what policy would be most appropriate. Notable Timestamps

[ 00:00 ] - A poultry house fire destroys 65,000 chickens, but the insured doesn't own the birds.

[ 03:30 ] - Contract Growing is common in agriculture, with farmers raising animals owned by vendors.

[ 05:20 ] - Under the ISO BOP, animals are generally excluded, but exceptions exist for animals owned by others and "boarded" by the insured.

[ 07:00 ] - Courts may rely on dictionary definitions when policy terms like "boarded" are undefined.

[ 09:00 ] - Adjusters should review the contract for risk transfer provisions, insurance requirements, and other-insurance clauses to understand responsibilities and potential overlap.

[ 11:30 ] - Standard BOP coverage can fall short for farming operations. Specialized farm policies are designed to address poultry risks more directly through scheduling and declaration-based coverage.

[ 13:30 ] - Declarations pages matter in agricultural losses. How buildings, poultry locations, and coverage types are defined can determine whether coverage applies or is excluded.

[ 15:30 ] - Valuing large-scale poultry losses is complex, involving age, weight, market timing, pricing data, and delay to market, often guided by specific policy language on cash market value.

[ 17:15 ] - Brennan summarizes the key points above.

Your PLRB Resources

Annotation: BP191 - Animals - https://members.plrb.org/documents/bp191-animals

Podcast Episode: Don't Count Your Chicken Coops Before They're Insured - https://members.plrb.org/education/courses/dont-count-your-chicken-coops-before-theyre-insured

Listeners can email [email protected] for help navigating resources, requesting new content, or getting tailored curriculum support.

Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company.

Subscribe to this Podcast

Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app

YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb

LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau"

Send us your Scenario!

Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to [email protected].

Sponsorship

PLRB thanks SERVPRO Restoration for its Diamond Sponsorship of the 2025 Claims Conference. "The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration We have more than 50 years of experience in the cleanup and restoration industry." Visit servpro.com!

Legal Information

The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate.

Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).

Alex is a team leader working with a mix of experienced adjusters and brand-new claims professionals, some assigned to the field and others working behind a desk. Alex has to make sure his team has the training they need to approach their work with confidence. Luckily PLRB.org's Education Hub has everything they need to succeed. Notable Timestamps

[ 00:10 ] - The PLRB Education Hub supports team leaders like Alex with training for both new and experienced adjusters to build confidence in handling claims.

[ 01:25 ] - Update #1: A new critical thinking course will help adjusters analyze information, decide when to bring in experts, and resolve claims fairly and in good faith.

[ 02:20 ] - Update #2: The annual "Claims Resolution" webinar series will address ethics of automation, bad faith in AI, and how emerging tech affects investigations.

[ 03:35 ] - Update #3: A new PLRB designation program aims to take adjusters from entry level through line-of-business-specific training with elective options.

[ 05:05 ] - The Education Hub offers 200+ recorded webinars, podcasts, modules, and downloadable slide decks as an on-demand claims knowledge library.

[ 06:35 ] - "Test Your Claims Knowledge" microlearning modules use flashcards, definitions, photos, and scenarios for quick, interactive training.

[ 08:45 ] - Member companies can integrate PLRB courses, webinars, microlearnings, and even this podcast directly into their own LMS platforms.

[ 12:55 ] - PLRB will help members curate custom courses by combining videos, quizzes, and interactives in any sequence to match specific training goals.

[ 14:10 ] - The library includes 100+ non-CE modules, about 200 podcasts, some 250 recorded webinars, plus many shorter video series for flexible learning.

[ 16:25 ] - Mike summarizes the key points above.

Your PLRB Resources

Upcoming Events: PLRB Conferences & More! https://www.plrb.org/events

PLRB Education HUB: https://members.plrb.org/education

Listeners can email [email protected] for help navigating resources, requesting new content, or getting tailored curriculum support.

Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company.

Subscribe to this Podcast

Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app

YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb

LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau"

Send us your Scenario!

Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to [email protected].

Sponsorship

PLRB thanks SERVPRO Restoration for its Diamond Sponsorship of the 2025 Claims Conference. "The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration We have more than 50 years of experience in the cleanup and restoration industry." Visit servpro.com!

Legal Information

The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate.

Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).

Jamie has been a property adjuster for some time now and is ready to graduate to larger and more complex losses involving hurricanes, construction defects, historic buildings, massive commercial structures, and more. Chris is a seasoned large loss adjuster looking to hone their practice in the casualty arena and network with others in their area. To address these questions, we'll take them to the PLRB Large Loss Conference. Notable Timestamps

[ 00:15 ] - The conference attracts adjusters ready to move into larger and more complex losses, giving them exposure to hurricanes, defects, historic buildings, and large commercial structures.

[ 01:40 ] - Attendees include seasoned adjusters, newcomers to large loss work, EGAs, casualty specialists, and experts like engineers and forensic accountants, creating a fully integrated learning environment.

[ 03:45 ] - Sessions use real or modeled claim scenarios to walk participants through years of handling, highlighting decision points, mistakes, successes, and insights from complex losses.

[ 06:20 ] - Topics span property, casualty, liability, business interruption, food contamination, smoke damage, and multi-claimant events, ensuring relevance to a broad range of adjusters.

[ 08:52 ] - Presenters use interactive tools—polling, role assignments, breakout groups, and scenario debates—to let attendees test coverage positions and compare investigative approaches.

[ 11:45 ] - Networking is built into the event with receptions, meals, and vendor interactions, giving adjusters chances to reconnect with long-time colleagues and meet new industry partners.

[ 13:15 ] - Intimate spaces and structured seating make it easy to meet people from across the country, fostering mentorship opportunities and cross-disciplinary conversations.

[ 15:20 ] - Mike summarizes the key points above.

Your PLRB Resources

Upcoming Events: PLRB Conferences & More! https://www.plrb.org/events

CE Course: A Deep Dive Into a Premises Liability Claim, Part 1 https://members.plrb.org/education/courses/a-deep-dive-into-a-premises-liability-claim-part-1

Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company.

Subscribe to this Podcast

Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app

YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb

LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau"

Send us your Scenario!

Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to [email protected].

Sponsorship

PLRB thanks SERVPRO Restoration for its Diamond Sponsorship of the 2025 Claims Conference. "The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration We have more than 50 years of experience in the cleanup and restoration industry." Visit servpro.com!

Legal Information

The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate.

Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).

This holiday week, we're sharing a classic episode about the PLRB Building Codes department.

The adjuster on a hail claim receives a long list of line items that are "required by code." Once the old shingles are torn off, they find rot and gaps in the sheathing, and the contractor says a thicker sheathing is now required by code. Notable Timestamps

[ 00:10 ] - Ice barriers, drip edges, a double felt underlayment... Searching the internet only leads the adjuster spiralling down a rabbit hole.

[ 01:30 ] - What internet rabbit holes have you gone down?

[ 04:28 ] - With PLRB's updated Address Report, members can provide an address and specify details such as rafter spans.

[ 05:05 ] - PLRB's Building Codes Address Report provides the adopted building code for a specific address, ensuring it falls within the correct city boundaries (e.g., Parma, Ohio).

[ 06:39] - Hail reports from NOAA are also included, allowing adjusters to confirm if hail was present in the area on the claim date. They also provide state-specific matching information, such as Ohio's "reasonable comparable appearance" standard.

[ 08:27 ] - The report includes diagrams that visually differentiate between modern wood structural panels and older lumber sheathing (planks), explaining concepts like H-clips for edge support.

[ 11:31 ] - The reports clarify requirements for common contractor-claimed line items, such as ice barriers, confirming if they are required (e.g., statewide in Ohio) and providing links to the source of this information.

[ 14:14 ] - The "Ask a code question" button links to a form where building code experts will research the specific inquiry and provide citations and links back to the member.

[ 15:44 ] - Ruth provides a recap of the points above.

Your PLRB Resources

Building Codes Hub & Address Report - https://members.plrb.org/building-codes

FAQ: When is Double Underlayment Required? - https://www.plrb.org/documents/when-is-double-felt-underlayment-required/?search=When%20is%20Double%20Felt%20Underlayment%20Required?

Ask a Building Code Question - https://www.plrb.org/building-codes/ask-plrb-building-code-question/

Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company.

Subscribe to this Podcast

Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app

YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb

LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau"

Send us your Scenario!

Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to [email protected].

Sponsorship

PLRB thanks SERVPRO Restoration for its Diamond Sponsorship of the 2025 Claims Conference. "The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration We have more than 50 years of experience in the cleanup and restoration industry." Visit servpro.com!

Legal Information

The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate.

Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).

Benny's Liquor, Fireworks & Gunpowder Emporium went up in flames last night. Motion-detector alarms caught the fire and automatically notified the police, who found the fire and called the local fire chief, but by the time they arrived it was too late. Now his insurer claims he violated his Protective Safeguards Endorsement by installing burglary alarms instead of actual fire alarms. Benny doesn't recall anything about this, but apparently it's some paper he signed when he bought the policy.

Key Takeaways

[ 00:37 ] - Benny's shop burned down, and his insurer denied the claim due to a protective safeguards endorsement violation.

[ 01:05 ] - Benny had a motion detector burglar alarm instead of the required fire alarm and does not recall agreeing to the protective safeguards endorsement.

[ 06:09 ] - Protective safeguards endorsements require the insured to maintain the specific safeguards named in the policy schedule as a condition of insurance.

[ 06:59 ] - If the insured knows of any suspension or impairment in the safeguards, they must notify the insurer or risk losing coverage.

[ 08:29 ] - If a safeguard is shut off due to breakage or leakage, repairs must be completed within 48 hours for notification to the insurer not to be necessary.

[ 10:47 ] - Courts often follow the strict policy language; simply having a different type of alarm, even if it detected the fire, is not considered compliant.

[ 12:04 ] - The protective safeguards endorsement is often found in commercial property or farm coverage, and courts tend to enforce strict compliance.

[ 15:15 ] - Coverage can be denied even if the breach of the safeguard duty did not affect the outcome of the loss because compliance is a condition of the insurance.

[ 18:11 ] - Beth provides a summary of the key takeaways.

Your PLRB Resources

Coverage Question: Fire Loss Involving Protective Safeguards Endorsement - https://www.plrb.org/documents/fire-loss-involving-protective-safeguards-endorsement/

Law Review: New Hamilton Liquor Store, Inc. v. Amguard Ins. Co. - https://www.plrb.org/documents/new-hamilton-liquor-store-inc-v-amguard-ins-co-2020/

Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company.

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Sponsorship

PLRB thanks SERVPRO Restoration for its Diamond Sponsorship of the 2025 Claims Conference. "The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration We have more than 50 years of experience in the cleanup and restoration industry." Visit servpro.com!

Legal Information

The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate.

Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).

Sam is a huge Bears fan. He sets up his brand new smoker in the backyard and put a perfectly seasoned pork shoulder on to cook all day -- just in time for the Sunday Night Bears v. Packers game. The smoker was near the side of the house, but not directly next to it. After 8 hours, the shoulder was tender and ready to eat… but the insured's siding had melted. Sam seeks coverage for the replacement of the melted siding (and for the pork shoulder he dropped when he saw the damage). Notable Timestamps

[ 00:23 ] - Sonia sets out a tragic game day scenario.

[ 01:16 ] - Fire is often defined by courts using dictionary definitions, such as Merriam-Webster's: "the phenomenon of combustion manifested in light and heat".

[ 04:38 ] - Scorching analysis suggests black marks may indicate oxidation and a glow (which could be fire damage), while brown marks often indicate high heat damage only.

[ 06:58 ] - For insurance purposes, losses must be fortuitous; Sam was trying to smoke meat, not melt the siding, so the damage was fortuitous from his perspective.

[ 08:37 ] - Most states rely on "proximate cause", i.e. the dominant or efficient cause that initiates the events, when analyzing causation for claims.

[ 09:23 ] - Friendly fire is contained in its usual place (like a stove), while hostile fire is unexpected or uncontrolled and not in its intended location. However, this analysis is not typically used by modern courts.

[ 11:43 ] - Sonia provides a recap of the points above.

Your PLRB Resources

The Future of Insurance Podcast - https://future-of-insurance.com/podcast/

Coverage Question: Smoker Melts Nearby Siding - https://www.plrb.org/documents/named-peril-coverage-smoker-melts-nearby-siding-pcq-2025-02-24-slc-a/

Coverage Question: Christmas Lights Scorched Couch: Is Couch Covered? - https://www.plrb.org/documents/fire-peril-scorched-couch/

Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company.

Subscribe to this Podcast

Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app

YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb

LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau"

Send us your Scenario!

Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to [email protected].

Sponsorship

PLRB thanks SERVPRO Restoration for its Diamond Sponsorship of the 2025 Claims Conference. "The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration We have more than 50 years of experience in the cleanup and restoration industry." Visit servpro.com!

Legal Information

The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate.

Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).