| Author |
Message |
Ghostbuster
Member
Username: Ghostbuster
Post Number: 253
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Friday, April 19, 2002 - 10:09 am: | |
Wellll, yeah, sorta...
Or. is it more a case of the carriers screwing themselves with the Consequential Loss Clause? As Texas lacks the policy verbage of 'Sudden and Accidental', the 49 state policies may have the chastity belt to avoid this close encounter of the mold kind.
I am anxious to hear from our 'Bama boy, Alan Jackson, on his assaults on the policy.
As mold is a creature of dampness, I find it hilarious that in the desert regions of the West where evaporative air coolers have pumped in moldy wet air into buildings forever, that toxic mold infestation is all-of-a-sudden a life threatening bio-hazard! (Whaddya mean it ain't covered??? Why, (snort and spit), Imma gonna sue ya like they did down in Texas and get me my $32 millyan dollarz too!)
Here's another angle to pursue for some crafty soul. What about the mold infestation in the air conditioning systems of your car? Can anyone construe some easy profit from the auto policy?
Ahhh...ain't it great? Idle minds are the devils workshop. |
Jim Flynt
Member
Username: Jimflynt
Post Number: 248
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Friday, April 19, 2002 - 8:14 am: | |
Ghostbuster how dare you say there isn't enough sex for your book?
You have to admit that there are a whole bunch of folks screwing the insurance companies down in Texas.......... |
Ghostbuster
Member
Username: Ghostbuster
Post Number: 252
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Friday, April 19, 2002 - 7:58 am: | |
Thank you for your missive, boys. I am reminded of the Alaskan saying wherein, 'When your A** is getting chewed on that's OK. It just means you are the lead dog showing the way.'
To the point tho, to compose a analytical history of the the Great Texas Mold Wars is too long for a forum entry. If anything, it should be documentery for the History Channel.
I don't think it would be successful as a book due the limited market appeal. There is just not enough sex involved to generate sales. |
D Wong Whey
Registered User
Username: Dwongwhey
Post Number: 106
Registered: 10-2001
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 3:42 pm: | |
Perhaps our friend Ghostbuster is afraid the Texas Commissioner of Insurance will revoke his adjusting license permanently if he tells us the truth about mold or breathes even one word disparaging the State Flower of Texas: Gold Mold. |
Jim Flynt
Member
Username: Jimflynt
Post Number: 247
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 3:33 pm: | |
I would respectfully invite one of our CADO "Mold Pros" (someone with hands on experience handling Texas mold claims) to respond to my earlier post and share with this audience why it is that Texas insureds are having such mold hysteria, mold litigation, and astronomical mold remediation costs and North Carolina and other areas which were hard hit by flooding are not.
This paradox really does have me stumped and I am looking for honest (not S.A.) answers. |
Jim Flynt
Member
Username: Jimflynt
Post Number: 246
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 3:28 pm: | |
PS: Ghostbuster: I have set up an email address with AOL JUST for you. You can reach me at GMail4You@aol.com and I will send you my REGULAR email address and telephone number.
Or you can reach me by sending a message along through Jim Lakes at RAC. |
Jim Flynt
Member
Username: Jimflynt
Post Number: 245
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 3:22 pm: | |
It was, I think, the New England Journal of Medicine which first reported that the preeminent symptom of toxic mold syndrome are a shriveling up of one's cojones.
Would someone down there in Texas please rush Senor Ghostbuster to the Emergency Room quick before this mold thing proves fatal. Oh the pains you must be suffering Mi Amigo.
And I thought you raised cattle down there in Texas not chickens. |
Ghostbuster
Member
Username: Ghostbuster
Post Number: 250
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 3:07 pm: | |
Guys, I've been setting here trying to compose a response but it's just too long. This saga belongs in a history book.
Jim, I will try to call you at the numbers listed in the phone directories, (there are two). If you have an unlisted number, some other means will have to be used. |
John Durham
Registered User
Username: Johnd
Post Number: 52
Registered: 9-2000
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 2:27 pm: | |
Ghost, I am at a loss as to why you dont just come out and tell Jim, "like it is".... Mold in Texas, ("moldus cowboyus") is a much more viruelent strain than the mold found on the east coast, ("moldus bubbas".) I could go on for hours explaining the basic difference, but I'm sure Mr. Flynt will get the general idea. If North Carolina had large belt buckles and chili ccokoffs then things "could" be different. Until NC starts to enjoy some of these things, it will be destined to live with "wimpy mold" for some years to come. And last but not least, Mr. Flynt, I was at FLOYD and while there was some moisture from this storm, it was NOTHING compared to a good old fashioned Texas Frog Strangler.
|
Jim Flynt
Member
Username: Jimflynt
Post Number: 243
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 12:40 pm: | |
Ghostbuster are you sure your name isn't Ringo Starr?
I swear I have never seen anyone beat around the bush, and beat around the bush, and beat around the bush.
I hear the 3 Nekked Ladies group need a skilled drummer and I'll be happy to ring in with my endorsement of your qualifications.
Public discourse of course. This crowd loves social intercourse with a Taurus chitter.
(Message edited by jimflynt on April 18, 2002) |
Ghostbuster
Member
Username: Ghostbuster
Post Number: 249
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 11:59 am: | |
To be succinct, would you prefer a private conversation, or a public discourse? |
Jim Flynt
Member
Username: Jimflynt
Post Number: 242
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 11:47 am: | |
What do you recommend Ghost? Carrier pigeon? Smoke signals? Steel drum beats? Sky writing with aeroplanes?
Shucks Ghostbuster, stop beating around the bush and let 'em have it.
We wait to hear. |
Ghostbuster
Member
Username: Ghostbuster
Post Number: 248
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 11:22 am: | |
No, you are not idiots in North Carolina, or anywhere else for that matter.
It's just that...that...are you sure some other form of communication might be better here? |
Jim Flynt
Member
Username: Jimflynt
Post Number: 241
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 10:53 am: | |
PS: As an afterthought Professor Ghost, I am perfectly willing to be the foil on the CON side of the "toxic mold" issue.
In fact, as far as I am concerned, the "toxic mold" issue is pretty much nothing but a CON game by those insureds, attorneys, remediation contractors and P.A.'s who would gloriously line their pockets through a mostly fraudulent process of legally robbing insurance companies through this grand scheme of asking the otherwise honest homeowners out there to pay for the deferred maintenance of their property due to their own laziness and lack of morality.
Perhaps the answer to my question Ghost has to do with character?
(Message edited by jimflynt on April 18, 2002) |
Jim Flynt
Member
Username: Jimflynt
Post Number: 240
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 10:42 am: | |
Ghost, I'm always serious.
If you don't believe me ask Jim Lakes.
PLEASE answer THE QUESTION and stop dawdling around.
An ANXIOUS NATION awaits YOUR response. |
Ghostbuster
Member
Username: Ghostbuster
Post Number: 247
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 10:38 am: | |
Jim, are you serious or just being slightly facetious? This kind of entry would be too long for the forum. Some other kind of communication might be more appropriate. |
Jim Flynt
Member
Username: Jimflynt
Post Number: 238
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 7:59 am: | |
Ok, Professor Ghostbuster, how's about enlightening this old country boy on the mold facts of life.
Please explain to me why there is such an uproar and downright insurance crisis way down there in Texas created by a little bit of mold from some little bitty half fast rain and wind storm;
AND YET,
Here in North Carolina, Hurricane Floyd dumped the largest most widespread damaging FLOOD in the history of America (September 1999), and YET we do not and did not have the same mold problem.
Yes we had mold in all those houses down in Eastern North Carolina with THOUSANDS being condemned as unlivable.
But did we have the influx of public adjusters? NO
Have we had a mold litigation frenzy? NO
Has the Great State of North Carolina been invaded by mold remediation contractors, testing companies and so called mold experts the likes of which haven't been seen since General Sherman brought the boys down for a little cookout? NO
Does North Carolina have a current homeowners insurance crisis both in terms of available capacity and premium pricing? NO
Do we and did we have cat and staff adjusters working month after month long after the storm had passed handling mold claims, mold testing, mold remediation, and mold litigation? NO
Are the NC Courts clogged with mold related litigation? NO
Did hundreds or thousands or EVEN ONE of our fine North Carolina citizens die from this dreaded plague? NO
Did property values in Eastern North Carolina fall through the floor due to the presence of this horrible mold contamination? NO
(In fact, property values in Eastern NC actually went UP after the hurricane).
Unlike Texas, does a visit to our state's Department of Insurance website even mention the word MOLD? Or mold remediation? Or how to complain if your carrier ignores your mold claim? No of course not.
I simply must be missing something here and know that only you Professor Ghostbuster can provide me with elucidation and a little erudition. Whack the rest of the class over the head with that big yardstick of yours so they don't sleep during this valuable lecture.
Please explain Professor Ghostbuster; this one has me stumped. Are we idiots here in North Carolina or what? |
joseph m lombardo jr
Registered User
Username: Jlombardo
Post Number: 14
Registered: 1-2002
| | Posted on Thursday, April 18, 2002 - 7:34 am: | |
Jim ,
I just read your post on mold prevention.......sounds like plain old good house keeping to me........seems like I heard about this type of prevention.....40 yrs ago....I think we used to call it "Spring Cleaning" and "routine maintanence"........I guess my Momma was smater than I thought...... |
Ghostbuster
Member
Username: Ghostbuster
Post Number: 246
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Wednesday, April 17, 2002 - 10:41 pm: | |
Good to hear from you Swami Jim! But, really now...if all these good and wonderous things were done the consequences would be horrific. Just consider how many P.A.'s would be wracking there brains for a new angle and all the headaches they would be getting from brain strain. And how about the legal profession? With lawyer overpopulation, it's already too hard getting in line to chase ambulances. And then there are our pals in the contracting business, tsk, tsk. Don't you realize they have expensive wives to maintain?
Finally, don't forget about all our brethern here in the Lone Star state. If they weren't playing the game, the whining from their unemployed mouths would be deafening and hurt my delicate ears.
No Mr Flynt, we must be grateful for that mold growing under the toilet rim, it has become a golden savior for those truly worthy souls who share this orb we call Terra! Hosanna! Hosanna! Sis Boom Bah!
|
Jim Flynt
Member
Username: Jimflynt
Post Number: 237
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Wednesday, April 17, 2002 - 8:56 pm: | |
Some helpful suggestions for all you mold practioners out there from the Focus on Allergies dot com website which is part of MedicineNet.com [link enclosed below]
"Mold Patrol - For Mold Control
Mold spores can pop up anywhere. There are lots of ways to deal with this persistent problem that are cost effective and really work. Dealing with mold requires elbow grease, patience, and mold know-how. Do not give up; the effort is well worth it.
Anti-mold Preparations
Numerous cleaning products specializing in mold control are available. The active ingredients in these products that are effective against molds are bleach and ammonia. So why should you pay a premium for anti-mold preparations when you can readily prepare the mixture at home for a fraction of the cost? As long as you are aware of the fabric fading effects and the potentially caustic nature of these cleaning materials, there should be no problems. Limited areas of mold collection (as occurs in the bathroom) can be cleaned with a bleach solution. An old toothbrush and bleach work wonders on the dark mildew that often collects between the tiles. If there is carpet in the bathroom (ideally there shouldn’t be since this is a “moisture trap” for mold), be careful not to drip the bleach on the carpet! Regularly using a “squeegee” along with a bottle of dilute bleach will help keep the mold spores under control.
Shower curtains present a special problem for mold control. Once the curtain is stained with mold spots, it might be worth a wash and rinse cycle with bleach. Usually, however, by the time you can see dime-size deposits of mold on the plastic shower curtain, it’s probably not worth the effort. At this point, it would be better to purchase a vinyl curtain with a mold inhibitor. (These are available for use in motel rooms.)
Larger areas, especially under the house, should be treated with either Orthocine, Captan’s powder (8 oz in a gallon of water), or bleach (mix 1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water). These products are available in hardware stores. Using rubber gloves, scrub the affected areas and repeat the process in 2 hours.
For even more extensive molds under the house, buy a 5 lb. bag of Bordeaux mixture (mostly copper sulfate) from any regular nursery and mix it with 15 to 20 gallons of water in a large tank sprayer. Spray the areas under the house, the ground, and all wood thoroughly at least 3 to 4 times a year for the first several years.
If the Bordeaux mixture is unavailable or does not control the problem, Ziram can be used in a 1-2% spray solution. Mix 3 ounces of the concentrate to 1 gallon of water. Ziram can also be used in the home for walls and floors. When applied to some fabrics, it may produce a slightly yellow color. Protective clothing should always be used when spraying this fungicide. One application of Ziram is usually sufficient for mold control. Do not store fungicides near fire or open flames. Always be sure there is good ventilation during use since many of theses substances are toxic!
Indoor Mold Control - Other Measures
* Lower the humidity level in the house.
* Use fans for proper ventilation.
* Clean visible mold from walls and ceilings.
* Keep firewood outside since the bark is covered with mold.
* Add mold inhibitor to paint before applying if it will be used in a damp environment, especially on brick and cinderblock walls in a basement or shady areas.
* Mold tends to grow in closets, as they tend to be dark and damp. Dry shoes and boots before storing. Consider a chemical moisture remover (desiccant) such as calcium carbonate flakes or crystals. One brand is Dri-Out Dome, which is readily available through allergy catalogs and home improvement stores.
* Do not carpet the bathroom.
* Mold grows in refrigerators. Keep them clean and defrosted. Remove spoiled food, preferably before it gets that way!
* Correct seepage or flooding problems and remove water- damaged carpet.
* Carpet and pad should not be laid on a concrete floor since this is a great place for moisture to accumulate, resulting in a flourishing population of dust mites and mold.
* Remove moldy stored items from the basement and keep it clean."
http://www.focusonallergies.com/script/main/Art.asp?li=MNI&ArticleKey=18660&page=1
|
Jim Flynt
Member
Username: Jimflynt
Post Number: 236
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Wednesday, April 17, 2002 - 8:22 pm: | |
I found the enclosed excerpts from the International Association of Mold Remediation Specialists website to be of some possible interest to adjusters. They are part of an article entitled "Mold Concerns: Will Insurance Companies Protect Their Clients Or Their Bottom Line" and in a portion therein entitled "An Open Letter To The Texas State Board of Insurance."
**************************************************
"Fact: Insurance companies report average payouts of $45,000 to $55,000 per mold claim.
Fact: IAMRS member companies report job averages of closer to $11,000 per mold claim.
The costs of fraud are high.
We acknowledge fraud in the [mold] industry. Some public adjusters, attorneys, and others have made it their stated purpose not merely to see that mold is remediated, but to "Pay Off" their clients' mortgages. In counties where remediation costs are noticeably higher, the state attorney general should investigate for possible [insurance] fraud."
**************************************************
All I can add is AMEN.
(Message edited by jimflynt on April 17, 2002) |
Ghostbuster
Member
Username: Ghostbuster
Post Number: 245
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Wednesday, April 17, 2002 - 5:26 pm: | |
Are Texans more important than Alabamans, or for that matter, the denizens of the other less civilized states??? Gee, Alan, are you trying to start yet another Civil War?
Does your 'Bama Homeowners policy have the same bugaboo ensuing loss clause that the Texas HOB does? Do yawl have the same, (or similar), consequential loss clause that can sink an Inshoance compnee into the swamp of Moldville? (I'm in a lazy mood and would appreciate someone else digging thru the policies for a comparative analysis.)
So, let's hear it...are Texans more important?, and, can the 49 state policies be bent over to cover our ever-friendly fungus?
Meanwhile the 'I Love Mold' gleeclub cheerleaders lead us with the yell, "Go Mold! Goooo Mold! Rah! Rah! Rah!" |
alan jackson
Registered User
Username: Ajackson
Post Number: 107
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Tuesday, April 16, 2002 - 11:42 am: | |
I ask a Claims Supervisor are the people in Texas more important than the people in Alabama? Gee, he didn't have a response. Mold claims here in dixie are like shooting fish in a drinking glass. My evil lawyer buddies and myself are having a field day with this. It seems that the carriers are not implementing their mold procedures across the board like they are in Texas. I had to give a Big Red adjuster a copy of their own Mold Manual.
Lawyers love the idea of carriers handling claims one way in one state and just plain ignoring them in others. It should be real interesting when we get one of these to trial. Mr. Carrier why do you have procedures, manuals and hundreds of adjusters working mold in Texas and none here in Alabama?
Do you think they will let us get these in front of a jury? I hope so.
Be true to the mold and the mold will be true to you. |
D Wong Whey
Registered User
Username: Dwongwhey
Post Number: 100
Registered: 10-2001
| | Posted on Wednesday, April 10, 2002 - 7:39 pm: | |
I guess Ol' Ed figures it's about time for his own home visit from the "Prize Patrol" |
Dale Strain
Registered User
Username: Catmandale
Post Number: 5
Registered: 1-2002
| | Posted on Wednesday, April 10, 2002 - 4:59 pm: | |
After reading the Ed McMahon article, I noted with interest that the adjusters were also named.
Here's a link for info on American Equity(and it's sister companies.)
http://www.insurance.ca.gov/docs/FS-CompanybyLine.htm
Dale
|
JimLakes
Registered User
Username: Jimlakes
Post Number: 70
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Friday, April 05, 2002 - 12:09 pm: | |
FYI,
I spent the whole day yesterday with a PHD testing a house for mold here in Chi-town.
In my discussions with him, he indicated that the EPA was coming out with "guidelines" in the near future on the amounts of mold that will be acceptabble amoung us.
We should all keep our "eyes and ears" open for this welcome news.
Jim Lakes, RPA
|
John Durham
Registered User
Username: Johnd
Post Number: 46
Registered: 9-2000
| | Posted on Thursday, April 04, 2002 - 9:54 pm: | |
Mold In The Sauna
You would think that, with a relative humidity that averages less than 10% (on a sticky day), Arizona would be spared the creeping mold problem. Not so. Apparently with the high use of swamp coolers and the 30-45 day high humidity of the monsoon season, eureka, mold has now hit the big time in Arizona.
A Glendale school was shut down for several days while a mold remediation team worked there to do an emergency cleanup, and a police precenct station was cordoned off to allow mold remediation work to take place. The police station took over 6 weeks to cleanup. Now the dreaded mold has hit the airways as the local TV and radio is getting out the word to the poor desert denizens that death is lurking at their door.
Recently I was in Portland, Oregon for my son's wedding and found basically the same mold hystaria to be present there. Looks like things are "looking up" for a properly trained mold "expert"
The only thing left is for someone to come up with a good acronym for "mold adjuster" as in "cat adjuster"
|
mark salmon
Registered User
Username: Olderthendirt
Post Number: 151
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Thursday, April 04, 2002 - 9:03 pm: | |
Here in the west the only thing you want the company grunts to do is refer to the mold team. When they do more the mess starts, Texas is not the only nightmare. How about Florida after the next big one, bet the PA's are doing their homework on mold. |
Ghostbuster
Member
Username: Ghostbuster
Post Number: 237
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Thursday, April 04, 2002 - 6:46 pm: | |
Well, Alan, it's like this...Iffen you was ta be a big ol' inshoance company, would you'uns wanta go and spread the word around Dixie about your Texas mold nightmare? I didn't think so.
A little feigned ignorance can go a long way. Particularly if you season it with some good ol' boyisms, a dash of shuck and jive, a jigger or two of 'Why can't we all just get along?' and before ya knows it, it all goes away.
Alan, would you mind ever so much to elucidate in a 'Bama sort of way on your Mold wars? |
alan jackson
Registered User
Username: Ajackson
Post Number: 106
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Thursday, April 04, 2002 - 11:24 am: | |
When are the carriers going to educate their staff adjusters about mold? Here in Alabama, the average staff adjuster does not have a clue about mold.
|
mark salmon
Registered User
Username: Olderthendirt
Post Number: 138
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Wednesday, February 13, 2002 - 11:22 am: | |
That the thing about mold, given a chance it'll grow on you |
alan jackson
Registered User
Username: Ajackson
Post Number: 104
Registered: 12-2000
| | Posted on Wednesday, February 13, 2002 - 8:40 am: | |
Be true to the mold and the mold will be true to you. |
Clayton G. Cartan
Registered User
Username: Clay
Post Number: 1
Registered: 1-2002
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 30, 2002 - 3:10 pm: | |
Now that Texas is changing the policy language, I pose a question. Who among us, didn't think the "DEAL" had already been done behind closed doors when Big Red withdrew it's petition for a hearing on re-writing their homeowners policy in July of 2001?
My take is that they would have never cancelled the proposed hearing had there not already been an agreement of sorts in place with the "Commish Jose" in Texas.
I think the subsequent hearings were window dressing to comply with state law and that staff input was a behind the scenes deal made months before in the Commish's office.
Why else would Big Red suddenly lose interest in changing the policy unless there was tacit approval for that to happen from the Commish's office?
Clay |
Dale Strain
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 09, 2002 - 1:19 pm: | |
Hello all of you out there...
O & P raises its' ugly head once more!
In my opinion this should be a non issue. It is silly to expect any contractor to work without addressing his costs and profit. The story becomes muddied when we try to slice it and dice it into neat little packages. The software programs scientifically break things down into unit prices and a factor of 10% overhead and 10% profit has been customary. However, no contractor will really survive on that. He has to make it up on the underlying numbers, which should already include the O & P for the subcontractor. Using their staff demo guys, carpenters, handymen, etc... is the usual manner. Not allowing it on specific trades because they are standalone merely makes him sharpen his pencil elsewhere.
From the carrier standpoint, they want to pay an amount as close to the real cost of repair without going over, which would result in a profit to the insured or contractor that is, in their opinion undeserved and not compensable. They estimate a reasonable approximation of the cost to repair, and if the insured spends more, they supplement. I suspect they believe that the software programs are usually a little too liberal in pricing, and by paying the 10/10 only after it is incurred, they have maintained the status quo.
Just an observation from the trenches.
Dale Strain |
JimLakes (Jimlakes)
| | Posted on Tuesday, January 08, 2002 - 7:48 pm: | |
Mike,
I am a little confused. Are you refering to losses where there is only carpet or roofing? If so then disregard the following.
This is one that I am afraid that I agree with the Great State of Texas.
I don't know where all these seasoned adjusters are that you refer to that don’t add O & P to those items. They obviously have not adjusted claims in none of the northern states, Fl, CA or many others.
I do know that if they tried to sell this idea here in IL they would be laughed out of the state or run out on a rail.
A lot of this thinking comes from some of the carriers that do not want to pay O & P on those items for two big reasons.
1) In most cases, those two items are the biggest part of a loss.
2) This would cause the fee bill for the adjustment to be too high.
I can understand they don’t want to pay O & P if there are less than three trades involved, however, if there are three or more trades then
O & P should be added no matter what they are. The carrier may choose to tell us not to add the O & P to our estimates so as not, to increase the fee bill and then add it after it has been submitted.
I must say that I don’t ever remember having a carrier tell us not to pay O & P for those specific items unless there were no other trades involved.
Jim Lakes RPA
National Catastrophe Director
RAC Adjustments, Inc.
866.241.6574 |
mike stephenson (Photoadjuster)
| | Posted on Monday, January 07, 2002 - 6:50 pm: | |
Just a rule of thumb.
Most seasoned adjusters, in a effort to write an damage estimate that reflects what the true costs will be, will not add overhead and profit to carpet nor roofing. Carpet and roofing are considered one phone call trades that normally do not require the insured to hire a true General Contractor who then hires the sub contractor. The insured picks up the phone and calls for estimates. Some adjusters look at a roofer as being a General Contractor and the unit pricing already includes his O & P.
The problem is, many states including Texas, have instructed us to NOT withhold the O & P.(see commissioner's bulletin # B-0045-98) This bulletin reads in part " the deduction of O & P. . . in determining the ACV under a replacement cost policy is improper . . . and is unfair to the insured."
If you will read this poorly worded bulletin, you will be as confused as we are. The above quotes is cut and dried, but the balance of the bulletin talks of "indemnity being the basis and foundation of insurance coverage". OK which is it?
Mike Stephenson |
TomS
| | Posted on Monday, January 07, 2002 - 3:08 pm: | |
NEED SOME HELP:
Can someone give me the correct answer as to why roofing and carpet and several other items are not considered for profit and overhead??
I am having a discussion and my answers do not seem to either be correct or not being listened to.
As always, the knowledge here will suffice for anybody I am discussing anything with, always win the discussion, wonder why!!!! I know, its because ya'll know the deals and what it is all about.
Thanks in advance. |
Claimsranger
| | Posted on Monday, January 07, 2002 - 11:34 am: | |
Let me put another 2 cents in here for ya! I am on a MOOF crew (Mold & Other Fungi) w/big Red here in the Molden Triangle of Texas.We are the largest in the state. 29 IA's and growing. These claims take about 6 months to close if you are lucky, BIG IF! I was told I could possibly be here until 2004 mid year. I have to call another Insured today and tell them they have to leave their home. Stachybotrys cocktail is the reason. This is the hardest part, they cannot take anything with them. By the way Maggie, no one is really from Dallas, they were transferred there by their company! As a 6th generation Texan I can attest to that. Especially since I am originally from Houston! Say Ghoust, would you believe something close to a billion spent by Big Red so far? Amazing!! Good analogy though with the martians. |
alan jackson (Ajackson)
| | Posted on Sunday, January 06, 2002 - 5:31 pm: | |
That just leaves 49 states with a mold problem. Texas down and the rest to go. It looks like a long fight regardless of what side of the fence you are sitting. |
Ghostbuster (Ghostbuster)
| | Posted on Saturday, January 05, 2002 - 8:07 pm: | |
The parties over, it's time to call it a night. When the gold runs out, all fantasies are dashed on the rocks of reality. This mornings San Antonio Express-News ran a graphic outlining the whereabouts of mold and the SIMPLE means of getting rid of it. They said that the expensive testing and remediation might be needed for insurance purposes but you can do it yourself with a bucket of soap suds and bleach water.
Golly Gee Whiz, Mr Wizard, could this be interpreted to mean that with an insurance policy around, things are a whole lot more expensive than if it wasn't there? Could this logic be extended to government money artificially inflating the cost of the medical industry too? Is this why Jimmy Flynts daily elixir pills are 1/4 their North Carolina cost down in Ol' Mexico?
Hmmmm...will the black helicopters be swooping down on me for this patently unpatriotic thinking? Oh well, after being abducted by space aliens several times ya kinda start to get used to the probing. That's why I like State Farm, they have a similar mindset. |
TomS
| | Posted on Saturday, January 05, 2002 - 10:08 am: | |
MR. D.WONG WEY,
HEY WAZ-BUBBA,
You did it again, I can now travel down the road thinking of some way to give you the punch line back, however, the longer I wait, the further I get behind from laughing.
I do not know about those 'heavyweights',you know me slim and trim ( no beer gut at all O:})
I really have never pondered the question, however, the buckle adds on,(scrapes the roof on the way up and down), the boots lets you use the pointed toes to hold tape down in corner. The hat is where all the working tools are, tape,disto,pencil,pad,extra film,and golf ball in a sock or ballpeen hammer,(just in case)
What do ya'll keep in that kamoni and scarf around yo' head? and do flip-flops really hold on a shake roof?
Ya'll all have a nice day.
T.for Tom |
D Wong Whey (Dwongwhey)
| | Posted on Saturday, January 05, 2002 - 8:37 am: | |
Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu Texas.*
Ms. Maggie I forgot to mention that the air down in Dallas is a lot warmer than the cool crisp air out in Denver. Perhaps Tom or Ghost can explain why there is so much hot air down there down in Texas.
One other question Tom: Does a larger belt buckle mean a heavier adjuster? Is that what is meant when they say we will send in one of our "heavyweights"?
I found the following recipe for "Texas sushi" for all you folks ("ya'll") who can't handle the real thing at this Texas website:
http://www.recipesource.com/munchies/appetizers/11/rec1175.html
Raw possum is not considered sushi in the Orient.
Japanese for * Happy New Year's Texas (These colors Papa Roy-san allows are really neat....sort of like having a new box of crayons) |
TomS
| | Posted on Saturday, January 05, 2002 - 6:47 am: | |
It appears that Mr. D. Wong Whey has once again blasted my little ole ethinic group from the south with those boots and buckles and all.
I think that while posting, he was looking dead on at the worm. Were you or not Mr. Wong? Ha, but after all you know you make my days reading your posts, it reminds me of Imus and Stearn, have you ever thought about a radio talk show here on CADO, think of the possiblities. I just wish I could respond with the same humor as you. I am still searching for some Texas Hot Sauce to replace your wasabba (waz-bubba, is our hot sauce)Will keep you posted.
But, as with other posts, Denver "may" be better than the Big "D" in Texas, for oh, so many reasons. But here goes AHO (another humble opinion)
Dallas is really spread out and is Big and multi variations of people,(zillions, I think)But,the pointed toe boots and buckles (not hats) are not the trend for everyone. However, to answer your original post, The mold should not present such a problem, if when buying your home, you have it inspected by a qualified "home" inspector. As to your Home owner premium, depending on the home and the coverage amount, probably 100K + home is gonna run you between $ 650 and $1000 per year. With the coverage you purchase this is such a variable. It has been my experience that around $ 6 to $ 8 per year is more in line (this is 125K coverage). I suggest an on line quote from one of these services,etc.
Now, this is only "IMHO". So just check it all out and visit a few times and I am sure you will make the proper decision.
Good Luck |
maggie
| | Posted on Friday, January 04, 2002 - 11:13 am: | |
Thanks for your words of Texas wisdom. That is what I thought. I should stick in Colorado for a while enjoing my snowy mountain views from the deck of my beautiful house. After all I do have a job here in Denver, even that my husband has a job in Dallas/Irving. I visited Dallas and the first thing I read in newspaper was about mold.
I never heard of mold in Colo, it's too dry here for mold. But I am not going to get a job as a CAT adjuser in Texas, I get it there are more then plenty in Texas. I remember 7 years ago we had an infusion of TX people in the company where I worked, and they were more then happy to be here, in beautiful Colorado and enjoy the crisp air and mountains. |
D Wong Whey (Dwongwhey)
| | Posted on Friday, January 04, 2002 - 10:07 am: | |
Of course, Ms. Maggie, if you and the Mister do move down to 'Big D', the very first thing you should do (after buying a big shiny new pick up truck of course) is run down and take the Leonard's Weekend School for Texas adjuster's licenses, so you both can make millions and millions (sounds like McDonald's doesn't it?) as cat adjusters.
We can alway use a few more troopers in the ranks you know! (Heck there are more adjusters in Texas than there are tequila worms. And the tequila worms are better for your health....haha)
Some new pointy-toed boots and big belt buckles wouldn't hurt in joining the adjusting fraternity either. (It's amazing the recycled uses of dead rattlesnake and leftover lizard t'aint it?)
Shame on you Ghostbuster for not inviting the Little Lady and her Dude Husband to grab a cowboy hat and join our little clubhouse of fun and frolic. Yippeehighohkiyah. (did I get that right pardner?)
Maybe I should stick with sushi and leave the barbecued brisket to those born without taste buds. (They barbecue everything in Texas except the road kill, and some are not so sure about that either........)
Ya' makin' any sewer runs today Ghost or off to fish? (We need some fresh yellowtail and tuna fish to accompany the wasabe) |
Ghostbuster (Ghostbuster)
| | Posted on Friday, January 04, 2002 - 9:42 am: | |
Actually, Ms Maggie, mold can grow anywhere, even in your rocky mountain bathroom.
Of more topical interest is the Dallas issue. Iffen I was you, I'd stay put in Denver rather than move to Big 'D'. The fierce weather, the near gridlock on the expressways, and last but not least, all those oversize Texas hairdos, drawls, and egos can test one's soul. Speaking as a Texan, I understand these traits but fear your assimilation from the Great State of Colorado might well be severely psychologically traumatic.
If you want to visit, please do, you are most welcome here. But, I wouldn't sell your Denver abode just yet. |
Kile Anderson (Kileanderson)
| | Posted on Thursday, January 03, 2002 - 8:12 pm: | |
Maggie, there really isn't a "mold problem" in Texas. The problem was the way the insurance policies were writen and some smart public adjuster and an attorney found a loophole that could make it profitable for people to file mold claims. People have been living in Texas for hundreds of years and people living in surrounding states with simmilar climates don't have the same problem because the insurance policies are written differently. Dallas is a great place to live. Don't let a few mold claims keep you out of the Metroplex, you'll love it. |
Maggie Stover
| | Posted on Thursday, January 03, 2002 - 3:27 pm: | |
I have a few questions for anybody who knows?! the answer. Do you use a software application to process all these mold claims, or not?
I am from Colorado, so we do not have mold here, but my husband got transfered to Dallas 2 months ago and we were looking forward to relocate in Dallas and even looking at houses when I came across the mold problem here in TX. Now I am less incline to relocate to Dallas, and maybe wait for my husband to find a job in Denver, even if it might take a while, because he is a programmer and there are no jobs right now in this area.
I also was wondering how much is the homeowner insurance in Dallas area.
Maggie S. |
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