By SPJ Adjusting Services | Insurance Appraisal Experts
When property owners in El Paso experience an insurance loss, they often think the insurer’s initial payment is the final word. But in reality, many claims qualify for supplemental payments additional funds for damages not included or underpaid in the first settlement.
While supplemental claims can be a legitimate and powerful tool for policyholders, there are growing concerns about how supplemental claims companies operate, and whether all of their practices are legal or in the homeowner’s best interest.
What Is a Supplemental Claim?
A supplemental claim is a follow-up request to your insurance company for additional funds when:
- New damage is discovered after the initial settlement
- The insurer’s estimate missed or undervalued repairs
- Costs for labor or materials have increased
The Legality Question
In Texas, only certain licensed professionals—such as public insurance adjusters or attorneys—can negotiate directly with insurers on behalf of policyholders. Many “supplemental claims companies” advertise services that may cross the line into unauthorized claims handling.
Potential legal issues include:
- Unlicensed adjusting – Operating without a Texas public adjuster license
- Conflict of interest – Working for a contractor while claiming to represent the policyholder
- Fee arrangements – Charging percentage-based fees without proper licensing
Concerns for Homeowners in El Paso
- False promises: Some companies overstate the likelihood or amount of a payout.
- Policy violations: Insurers may refuse to engage with unlicensed entities, delaying claims.
- Lack of accountability: If something goes wrong, homeowners have little recourse.
How SPJ Adjusting Services Handles Supplemental Claims
At SPJ Adjusting Services, we:
- Work within Texas law as licensed public adjusters
- Review the original claim file for missed damages
- Provide detailed, evidence-based estimates
- Negotiate directly with the insurer to secure the maximum allowable payout
Key Tip: Before hiring anyone to handle your supplemental claim in El Paso, ask for their Texas Public Adjuster License number. This ensures you’re protected and your claim is legally managed.
If you believe your claim was underpaid or incomplete, SPJ Adjusting Services can legally and effectively handle your supplemental claim, ensuring you get every dollar you’re entitled to.
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