To quote Robert Baker's published piece on the Unauthorized Practice of Public Adjusting (UPPA), "The unlicensed practice of public adjusting is a vehicle of consumer fraud that preys on some of the most vulnerable elements of our society. The disaster-stricken, the elderly, the unsophisticated and those for whom English is a second language. Individuals losses range from a couple of thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. And frequently, victims are left without a remedy, because UPPA offenders just disappear or are not worth suing."
Our experts discuss this timely issue - what it is, who is affected, and what can be done to stop it - in this episode.
[01:52] What is the unauthorized practice of public adjusting and how and when did it start?
[05:46] How did the practice of UPPA develop and get worse over time?
[10:00] Do insurance agents ever assist in claims and does it cause confusion?
[13:19] How prevalent is the problem and are some states worse than others?
[15:25] In terms of dollars, what does this practice cost policyholders and/or the insurance industry?
[22:18] What has been done to counteract this practice and who is doing it?
[25:42] How are the insurance industry and public adjusters united in addressing this issue?
[27:35] Have insurance companies taken a position on this topic?
[32:08] Once claims have been settled, do homeowners have any recourse?
[34:14] Real world examples of unlawful public adjusting activity.
[38:28] Recommended resources for home and building owners who may experience the illegal activity.
[40:00] What is being done to educate consumers about this issue?
[42:04] Additional thoughts from the panel.
Panelists:
Moderator:
Mentioned in This Episode: