Can insurance adjusters tell how old damage is?

Asked by: Ms. Edyth Anderson Jr.  |  Last update: March 4, 2025
Score: 4.9/5 (4 votes)

Numerous resources tell an adjuster how old the damage is. For vehicles, a comprehensive vehicle report can be obtained to determine whether the vehicle has been involved in other accidents. For homes, visual inspection and repair or inspection records can help them determine if something is pre-existing.

Can you tell how old damage is on a car?

An adjuster can tell the age of the damage by seeing if the vehicle has had a history of accidents. When they physically inspect a car, they try to find any evidence of sanding, rust, or mismatched paint. The signs could represent old damage and repairs.

What should you not say to a claims adjuster?

Some key phrases to avoid saying to an insurance adjuster include: “I'm sorry.” “It was all/partly my fault.” “I did not see the other person/driver.”

Can new insurance company see old claims?

A Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange report — commonly called a CLUE report — details personal property and auto insurance claims dating back up to seven years. When you're shopping for a new insurance policy, insurers will likely request a CLUE report to view your claims history.

How long do insurance companies keep claim info?

How Far Back Does an Insurance Claim Go? How long are medical records kept? The answer varies depending on the state. In California, the retention period can be anywhere from two to ten years, depending on the type of procedure or healthcare provider.

Hail Damage to Your Vehicle? Here's What To Do Next.

44 related questions found

Is there an insurance claim database?

LexisNexis C.L.U.E. (Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange) is a claims information exchange. It collects and reports up to seven years of auto and personal property claims. It also provides insurance risk scores to help inform pricing and underwriting decisions for the insurance industry.

How do you beat claims adjuster?

What Is the Single Best Way to Scare an Insurance Adjuster?
  1. Write a convincing demand letter to your insurance company.
  2. Carefully review any settlement offers you receive.
  3. Reject a settlement offer in writing on your behalf.
  4. Counter your lowball settlement offer.

Can you trust your insurance adjuster?

That said, it's always prudent to use caution when you're speaking to an insurance adjuster after an accident. These individuals have the tough job of thoroughly reviewing your case to determine an appropriate payout, and they may not always have your best interests at the forefront of their minds.

Can you negotiate with a claims adjuster?

Here's how to negotiate with insurance adjusters like a pro:

Gather all evidence, including photos, medical records, and repair estimates. Stay calm, be polite, and firm in your communications. Start with a reasonable demand backed by evidence, and be ready to counter low offers.

Can you make an insurance claim on old damage?

This may include previous damages that you didn't repair or normal wear and tear to your vehicle. Your insurance company is unlikely to cover pre-existing damages for the following reasons: They are not required to cover damages to your vehicle that occurred before you had a policy with them.

How do adjusters determine damage?

Interview those involved: The adjuster will collect recorded statements from people involved in the loss, such as drivers, passengers, and witnesses. They may also review the scene of the accident, police reports, or video footage of the loss, along with any other information related to the loss.

What year car is considered old?

For insurance and registration purposes, the age of a classic car, in most cases, is at least 20 years old but not more than 40 years old. If you are going to register it (and insure it) as a classic, it should have been kept to its original design and specifications.

What home insurance adjusters won't tell you?

Adjusters may downplay the extent of the damage, offer lowball settlements, or employ various tactics to delay the claim settlement process. To navigate this challenge, homeowners must be prepared, well-documented, and persistent in advocating for their rights.

What happens after adjuster looks at house?

After that, the insurance adjuster will file a report containing their findings and recommendations. Some insurance adjusters can authorize a claim on the spot, but it is more common that you will have to review the report and communicate with the insurance company to finalize the claim.

How long does it take for an adjuster to make a decision?

Typically, under the terms of the insurance policy and/or by state law, the adjuster must complete an initial review and send a response within a reasonable amount of time – usually on the order of 30 days.

What not to tell a claims adjuster?

Admitting Fault, Even Partial Fault.

Even if you think you may be partly at fault for the accident, do not discuss this with an adjuster. Avoid any language that could be construed as apologetic or blameful. Admitting any level of fault can eliminate or reduce the compensation that may be available.

What do insurance adjusters check?

Adjusters inspect property damage or personal injury claims to determine how much the insurance company should pay for the loss. They might inspect a home, a business, or an automobile. Adjusters interview the claimant and witnesses, inspect the property, and do additional research, such as look at police reports.

Can insurance companies tap your phone?

Insurance companies cannot tap your phone, but they can request to see your phone records. They may ask you directly or they may go through court channels.

What do insurance companies fear the most?

It's simple: Insurance companies' legal teams hate having to go before juries. Naturally, it's up to juries to apply the law in a fair and even-handed manner. However, it never helps insurance companies to be seen as the villains who are trying to get one over on people in genuine need.

How to scare a home insurance adjuster?

How to Scare an Insurance Adjuster
  1. Understand How Insurance Adjusters Work. ...
  2. Know How Adjusters Attempt to Minimize Compensation. ...
  3. Take Your Time to Review an Offer. ...
  4. Reject a Lowball Offer in Writing. ...
  5. Finish Your Treatment Before Accepting a Settlement.

Can an adjuster cancel a claim?

Yes, the adjuster is free to close their file, and they could even withdraw any settlement offers (We do not see this happen very often). However, state law, not the adjuster, determines the time limit you have to pursue your case.

Can insurance companies see your claim history?

Every insurer scopes out your recent claims history as well as the claims history for the home when you switch insurance companies or purchase a new policy. This helps them price your policy.

Which of the following could be found in the previous insurer report?

The Previous Insurer Report (PIR) typically contains information about the prospect's previous insurance carrier. This includes details such as the name of the carrier, policy period, coverage types, and possibly claim history.

Can you get a free LexisNexis report?

LexisNexis® Risk Solutions maintains information on insurance claims histories and has designed an easy process for consumers to request their free file disclosure.