When disaster strikes, insurance adjusters step in to help policyholders navigate one of the most stressful times in their lives. Whether you’re new to the industry or refining your skills, understanding the full life cycle of an insurance claim — from First Notice of Loss (FNOL) to final settlement — is critical to your success.
At MileHigh Adjusters Houston, we train adjusters not just to understand this process, but to master it. Let’s break down what happens step-by-step in a typical property claim, and where adjusters fit into the picture.
🔹 Step 1: First Notice of Loss (FNOL)
The FNOL is the moment the insured first reports the loss to their insurance company. This is where the claim officially begins.
Key Info Collected:
- Policyholder’s details
- Date, time, and cause of loss
- Initial description of damage
Your Role as an Adjuster:
You may not handle the FNOL directly, but how well this information is gathered will affect the rest of your claim handling. A poorly documented FNOL can lead to delays, confusion, or even disputes.
🔹 Step 2: Claim Assignment
Once FNOL is recorded, the claim is assigned to a field or desk adjuster — that’s where you come in.
At This Stage:
- You’ll receive the claim file (via carrier portal or software like XactAnalysis)
- You’ll review the policy coverage and limits
- You’ll contact the insured to schedule inspection
MHAH Tip:
We train you how to organize your claim files, contact the insured professionally, and confirm coverage questions up front — all of which help you move faster and avoid rework.
🔹 Step 3: Field Inspection (Scoping the Loss)
This is your on-site moment. As a field adjuster, you’re now assessing the actual damage and collecting the data to build your estimate.
You’ll Need to:
- Document damages (photos, notes, measurements)
- Interview the policyholder
- Identify cause of loss
- Determine if repairs are needed or if it’s a total loss
- Use Xactimate to begin building your estimate
Tools of the Trade:
- Ladder, measuring tools, chalk
- Scope sheets
- Mobile device with camera
- Xactimate sketch and estimate builder
MHAH Training Highlight:
We teach you how to scope like a pro. From inspecting roofs and interiors to diagramming in Xactimate, our hands-on boot camps and video courses simulate real-world inspections.
🔹 Step 4: Writing the Estimate
After the inspection, it’s time to write your claim — and this is where many new adjusters stumble.
Your Estimate Should:
- Be accurate and defensible
- Include photos and notes that support every line item
- Follow carrier guidelines
- Reflect current labor and material costs (Xactimate pricing updates)
Remember:
Carriers will review your file. Inconsistencies or unclear documentation can cause rejections or reassignments.
MHAH Claim Writing Advantage:
We walk you through real-world claim simulations — not just theory — so you know exactly how to write clean, clear, carrier-ready estimates.
🔹 Step 5: File Submission & Review
Once completed, your claim is submitted through the carrier’s platform. This may involve peer review, supervisor approval, or desk adjuster follow-up.
What They’re Looking For:
- Accuracy
- Timeliness
- Policy compliance
- Professional documentation
Avoid These Mistakes:
- Incomplete photos
- Missing scope details
- Unsupported line items
🔹 Step 6: Settlement & Payment Issuance
If everything checks out, the claim is approved, and settlement is issued to the policyholder.
This May Involve:
- Actual Cash Value (ACV) vs. Replacement Cost Value (RCV)
- Holdbacks for depreciation
- Mortgage company involvement in check issuance
As the Adjuster:
You may need to explain the payout to the insured, or follow up on supplements or additional damage found later.
🔹 Why This Process Matters to You
Understanding and executing each step well doesn’t just serve the policyholder — it builds your reputation with carriers and deployment firms. Speed, accuracy, and professionalism are what get you noticed (and re-deployed).
At MileHigh Adjusters Houston, we don’t just teach you the steps — we help you build the skills, tools, and confidence to own the entire claims process from start to finish.
🛠️ Ready to Learn the Claims Process Hands-On?
✅ Monthly Boot Camps in Houston
✅ Online Video Courses with Real-World Simulations
✅ Xactimate Training + 30-Day Access
✅ Over 1,400 Adjusters Trained Nationwide
Join the next wave of professional adjusters ready to step into the field with confidence.
📍 MileHigh Adjusters Houston – We Train the Special Forces of Adjusters
🌐 www.milehighadjustershouston.com
📞 Call Us: 281-741-8505