Information on How to Find a Reliable Contractor for Policyholders and Update on Claims Timeline at Western National

Information on Finding a Reliable Contractor for Policyholders and Update on Claims Timeline at Western National

Since August 11, 2023, we have received approximately 1,100 property and auto claims. Thank you for your partnership in serving our mutual policyholders by helping respond to questions and provide updates as appropriate.

We wanted to share the following information on how to find a reliable contractor that our agency partners can share with our mutual policyholders.

How to Find a Reliable Contactor – Advice for Policyholders
Following a storm, salespeople for contractors may knock on doors asking to inspect properties for storm damage. We caution our customers not to sign any agreements, including agreements allowing the inspection of the property, prior to the insurance company inspection. These agreements could bind customers to uncovered repairs or to specific contractors. Be aware of out-of-state contractors that may knock on doors following a storm as well.

Contracts may include hidden penalty clauses that obligate you to pay the contractor even if you use a different contractor for the repairs, or they may include an assignment of your policy’s benefits to the contractor.

Contracts should specify a scope of the work to be performed as well as a price for the work. You may cancel a contract within 72 hours of signing it under Minnesota law.

A reputable contractor should not pressure you into signing an agreement before receiving the insurer’s estimate.

It is important to do your research on contractors. We recommend working with a licensed, local contractor. Asking for referrals from friends, family or neighbors is recommended. Take the time to read reviews about the contractor and be sure to read the contract in detail prior to signing it.

How to Report a Claim
Western National offers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week claims reporting.

Please note: If your customer is experiencing an urgent matter with immediate need (e.g., water leaking into the home or other damage making the home unlivable), please call our Claims Department directly instead of sending an email. This is the quickest way to get assistance. Once a claim is submitted, your customer can expect to hear from our team within 48 hours.

Thank you for your partnership!

At Western National Insurance, nice is what’s guided us for over 100 years.

And we’re just getting started.

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Information on Finding a Reliable Contractor for Policyholders and Update on Claims Timeline at Western National