Picking a Contractor:

• You have the right as a homeowner to pick your own contractor, whether or not you have representation or assistance in settling your claim.
• No one can prevent you from speaking with your insurance company regarding your claim, damages, questions or concerns.
• It is best to choose a licensed and insured contractor. Click on your state to be directed to your state’s contractor and licensing board.

Read All Repair Contracts Carefully:

• Be wary of any document that contains language such as “I agree to transfer or assign any and all insurance rights, benefits, and causes of action under my property insurance policy to the contractor.” This type of document is called an “Assignment of Benefits” or “AOB”, and signing it could mean that you give away many of your rights under your insurance policy.
• A “Direction to Pay” is not the same as an “Assignment of Benefits”. A “Direction to Pay” does not assign your rights to the contractor, it merely permits the insurance company to make payments for completed services directly to the contractor on your behalf.

Protect Yourself From Fraud:

• The cost of insurance fraud affects all of us. The costs associated with fraud raises rates, which in turn affects what you pay for insurance.
• If you suspect insurance fraud or want to report fraudulent activity, please contact your state’s Department of Insurance. 
• Select a state to navigate to your state's Department of Insurance: Florida, Louisiana, South Carolina, Mississippi