How to Get Founders Insurance to Pay a Claim

Dealing with insurance claims can be stressful, but knowing the proper steps to take can make the process smoother. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to get Founders Insurance to pay a claim.

Report The Claim Promptly

The first step is to report the claim to Founders Insurance as soon as possible. You can do this by:

• Calling the claims number at 888-676-4342. Founders representatives are available Monday-Friday 8am-5pm and Saturday 8am-1pm for new losses.

• Filing a claim online through the Founders website. You’ll need to log into your account.

• Visiting a local agent office in person.

When reporting the claim, be prepared to provide details like when and how the loss occurred, a description of the property damaged/stolen, and any other relevant information. Reporting quickly starts the claims process faster.

Cooperate Fully With the Adjuster

After reporting the claim, a Founders claims adjuster will be assigned to investigate and evaluate your claim. It’s important to cooperate fully and respond promptly to all requests. The adjuster may:

• Ask for a recorded statement about what happened. Answer questions honestly with as much detail as possible.

• Request documents like receipts, photos, inspection reports, etc. Provide anything relevant.

• Inspect damaged property. Allow the adjuster access for photos and/or evaluations.

• Ask you to complete paperwork like a sworn statement or proof of loss. Fill out and return promptly.

Being responsive helps Founders process the claim faster, while lack of cooperation can delay or complicate the process.

Understand the Estimate

The adjuster will provide an estimate of damages/losses and the covered amount Founders will pay. Make sure to thoroughly review the estimate and understand what is being covered versus denied and why. Some things to look for:

• Are all damaged/lost items included? Verify the list is complete.

• Do the valuations seem accurate based on actual value and your policy limits?

• Are there any denials for items not covered under your policy? Understand exclusions.

• Does the estimate include code upgrades or other required repairs?

If you have any questions or disputes about the estimate, contact the adjuster for clarification or to submit more information before accepting.

Provide All Requested Documentation

In addition to the estimate, Founders may request various documents to process payment on a claim. Be sure to provide complete and accurate information. Some documentation they may require:

• Proof of ownership – bills of sale, receipts, appraisals or other evidence you owned items claimed.

• Value substantiation – documentation on the actual cash value of damaged/lost items, like original purchase price and receipts, replacement quotes, appraisals, etc.

• Photos – dated photos clearly showing damage or missing items.

• Repair estimates – if applicable, quotes from contractors to make covered repairs. Make sure these distinguish between repairs for the covered incident versus other work.

• Police reports – for theft, vandalism, or other crimes. Reports should be filed promptly.

Providing thorough, accurate documentation will help avoid delays in receiving your claim benefits.

Accept or Negotiate the Claim Settlement

Once the adjuster has all documentation, they will provide a claim settlement outlining the final payment amount. You can:

• Accept the settlement – if you agree with the adjuster’s valuation and scope of covered losses, accept the payment as full settlement of your claim.

• Negotiate – if you disagree with some aspect of the settlement, contact the adjuster to discuss. Provide additional substantiation like repair quotes, appraisals, etc. to make your case. Be cooperative but firm.

• Involve an attorney – for very complex/contentious claims, consulting an insurance attorney may be helpful for navigating negotiations.

Work for a settlement that reimburses you fairly for covered losses within your policy limits and endorsement. Get all settlement agreements in writing before signing.

Complete Needed Repairs

If the claim involved property damage that requires repairs, be sure to complete these repairs timely and in line with estimate specifications. Some tips:

• Use approved contractors. Depending on your policy, Founders may require or prefer you use certain repair providers.

• Keep all receipts for work done. Founders may ask for these before releasing final payments.

• Only complete/claim repairs related to the covered incident, not other improvements or maintenance.

• Contact Founders before making major changes to the repair plan or scope.

• Allow inspectors access to check repair progress/quality.

Following the repair estimate helps avoid issues that can delay final payment.

Understand the Appeals Process

If you are unable to reach an agreed settlement with the adjuster, Founders does offer an appeals process:

• Talk to a supervisor – ask the adjuster to escalate the dispute to their supervisor for further review. Additional management can sometimes provide resolution.

• File an appeal – submit a written appeal request to Founders including your policy information, claim details, and reasons for disputing the adjuster’s handling. Support with documentation like repair estimates, appraisals, etc.

• Request mediation – some states offer free mediation services to resolve claimant/insurer disputes without litigation. The mediator will review both sides objectively.

• File a complaint – you can contact your state insurance regulator to file a complaint against Founders if you believe the claim was improperly handled.

Using the appeals process can provide options between accepting an unsatisfactory settlement and filing lawsuit.

Consult an Attorney if Necessary

If you exhaust the appeals process and litigation appears necessary, consult an insurance attorney about your options. An attorney can:

• Review your policy and claim correspondence to give their assessment.

• Handle negotiations with Founders legal representatives on your behalf.

• File lawsuit against Founders if warranted and represent you in court.

• Advise if legal action seems viable or not given the specifics of your case.

Keep in mind legal action should be a last resort. An attorney can let you know when it’s appropriate.

Navigating insurance claims requires patience and diligence, but understanding the proper steps can help maximize your payout on a Founders claim. Being proactive yet reasonable with adjusters while documenting everything along the way puts you in the best position for a satisfactory resolution. Most claims will be settled amicably through cooperation, but further advocacy through supervisors, mediators, regulators or attorneys provides options when disputes arise.