Appraisal

The process of determining the value of an asset or property, often conducted by an independent appraiser.

Arbitration

A dispute resolution process in which a neutral third party (an arbitrator) listens to arguments from both sides and makes a binding decision.

Claim

A request made to an insurance company for compensation for damages or losses covered by the policy.

Deductible

The amount of money that the policyholder is responsible for paying before the insurance company begins to cover costs.

Depreciation

The decrease in value of an asset or property over time due to wear and tear, age, or other factors.

Disaster

An event that causes significant damage or destruction, such as a natural disaster (hurricane, flood, earthquake, etc.) or a man-made disaster (fire, explosion, etc.).

Endorsement

A written agreement or attachment to an insurance policy that modifies or adds coverage.

Exclusion

A specific circumstance or type of damage that is not covered by an insurance policy.

Floodplain

An area of land adjacent to a river or other body of water that is at risk of flooding.

Fraud

Intentionally deceiving or misleading another person or organization for personal gain.

Hail

Frozen raindrops that fall from the sky during a thunderstorm, which can cause damage to property.

Hazard

A condition or circumstance that increases the likelihood of damage or loss.

Hurricane

A severe tropical storm that can cause high winds, heavy rain, flooding, and other types of damage.

Insurance Adjuster

A person who evaluates claims made by policyholders and determines the amount of compensation that the insurance company will provide.

Insurance Broker

A person or company that sells insurance policies on behalf of multiple insurance companies.

Insurance Policy

A legal agreement between an individual or organization and an insurance company that outlines the terms and conditions of coverage.

Liability

Legal responsibility for damages or losses that are caused by an individual or organization.

Loss

The amount of money that an individual or organization suffers as a result of damages or losses.

Mold

A type of fungus that can grow in damp environments and cause damage to property and health problems in humans.

Natural Disaster

An event that is caused by natural forces, such as weather or geological activity.

Negligence

Failing to exercise reasonable care, which can lead to damages or losses for another individual or organization.

Peril

A specific risk or danger that is covered by an insurance policy.

Policyholder

The individual or organization that holds an insurance policy.

Premium

The amount of money that the policyholder pays to the insurance company in exchange for coverage.

Public Adjuster

A licensed professional who represents the policyholder in insurance claims and negotiations with the insurance company.

Reconstruction

The process of repairing or rebuilding a property that has been damaged.

Replacement Cost

The cost of replacing a damaged or lost item with a new one of similar value.

Restoration

The process of repairing or cleaning a property after it has been damaged.

Risk

The likelihood of a loss or damage occurring.

Settlement

The amount of compensation that is agreed upon between the policyholder and the insurance company.

Smoke Damage

Damage caused by smoke from a fire, including staining, odors, and health hazards.

Subrogation

The process of the insurance company seeking reimbursement from a third party that was responsible for causing the damages.

Tornado

A violent rotating column of air that can cause significant damage to property and infrastructure.

Tree Damage

Damage caused by fallen trees or branches, including structural damage and power outages.

Vandalism

Deliberate damage or destruction of property by another person or group.

Water Damage

Damage caused by water, including flooding, leaks, and mold.

Wind Damage

Damage caused by high winds, including structural damage and debris.

Windstorm

A storm with high winds, often accompanied by rain, hail, or snow.

Workers' Compensation

A type of insurance that provides compensation to employees who are injured or become ill on the job.

Wrongful Death

A death that is caused by the negligence, intentional act, or wrongful conduct of another individual or organization.