Free script library

Know exactly what to say

Adjusters have a script for every conversation with you. Now you have one for every conversation with them. Tap any situation, copy the words, use them.

The three rules behind every script: stay calm and factual, get everything in writing, and never guess. "I don't know yet, I'll follow up in writing" is always a complete answer.

The first call after your loss

Your goals: open the claim, get your claim number, and commit to nothing. You are not obligated to describe every damaged item on day one.

"I'm calling to report a loss at [address] that happened on [date]. I'd like the claim number, my adjuster's name and direct contact, and a copy of my full policy with declarations page emailed to me. I'm still assessing the damage, so today I'm just opening the claim. Please also confirm what deadlines apply to my claim, in writing."

Why the policy request matters: everything you fight about later is decided by that document. Get it on day one, then decode it free with ClaimFair.

They want a recorded statement

You generally must cooperate with your own insurer, but you control the timing and preparation. Never do it caught off guard in the car.

"I'm happy to cooperate, but I'm not available for a recorded statement right now. Please send me the request in writing along with the topics you want to cover, and we'll schedule a time. I want my documentation in front of me when we speak."

In the statement itself: answer only what's asked, don't estimate ("I don't know yet" beats a wrong guess forever on tape), and never speculate about cause.

The offer feels low

Don't argue feelings; request the math. The itemized estimate is where you'll find what's missing.

"Thank you for the offer. Before I respond, please send me the complete itemized estimate behind this number, including all line items, quantities, unit pricing, depreciation applied per item, and any overhead and profit. I'll review it against my own documentation and respond in writing."

Then: run their number against yours in the gap calculator, and check the estimate for missing O&P, depreciation, and contents.

They're dragging their feet

Most states have claim-handling deadlines (acknowledging, deciding, paying). Naming that fact changes tone fast.

"It has been [X] days since [I filed / you received my documents]. Please give me a written status of my claim, what specifically is outstanding, and the date I can expect a decision. I'd also like this delay noted in the claim file. I'm aware state regulations set timelines for claim handling, and I want to stay ahead of them together."

Log every contact: date, name, what was said. If it ever goes to a complaint or attorney, that diary is gold. The ClaimFair toolkit has a built-in claim diary.

Getting your withheld depreciation back

On replacement-cost policies, the carrier holds back depreciation until you repair or replace. It's your money; you just have to claim it correctly and on time.

"I'm writing to recover the depreciation withheld on my claim number [number]. Attached are receipts and invoices showing completed repairs and replacements. Please release the recoverable depreciation for these items and confirm the amount and payment date in writing. If any item is excluded, please cite the specific policy language."

Know your number first: the depreciation calculator shows what they're holding on any item.

Pushed to sign a release

A release can end your right to further payment. Urgency is their tool, not your obligation.

"I'm not signing a release today. My documentation isn't complete, and I may have additional damages including hidden damage, code upgrades, and additional living expenses. Please send the release language for my review, and confirm in writing that my claim remains open in the meantime."

Escalating past the adjuster

When you and the adjuster are stuck, go up, not around. Ask for the supervisor and create a paper trail.

"We've reached an impasse, so I'd like the name and contact information of your supervisor and your claims manager. I'll be sending a written summary of the disputed items with my documentation. If we can't resolve this, I'm prepared to file a complaint with the state Department of Insurance and to consult a licensed public adjuster or attorney."

Real escalation options, in order: supervisor, appraisal clause (check your policy), state DOI complaint (free, carriers must respond), licensed public adjuster, policyholder attorney. ClaimFair can match you with a licensed public adjuster with your whole file ready to hand over.

Know exactly what to say

Scripts win conversations. Documentation wins claims.