Whether you’re new to claims adjusting or sharpening your skills for deployment season, one thing is certain: if you can’t confidently read and interpret a property insurance policy, you’re going to struggle in the field.
At MileHigh Adjusters Houston, we train our adjusters to treat the policy like their playbook — because it is. Knowing how to break it down quickly and accurately sets you apart as a reliable pro in the eyes of carriers, policyholders, and fellow adjusters.
Here’s how to read a property insurance policy like a seasoned adjuster:
📄 1. Start with the Declarations Page (DEC Page)
This is your roadmap. The declarations page provides the essential summary:
- Policyholder name & address
- Policy number
- Effective/expiration dates
- Coverage types and limits
- Deductibles
- Endorsements listed
👉 Pro Tip: Check the policy dates first. If the loss occurred outside the active period, the rest of the policy doesn’t matter — it’s not covered.
📚 2. Understanding the Policy Structure
Most property insurance policies are structured in a similar format:
- Declarations
- Insuring Agreement
- Definitions
- Coverages (A–D)
- Exclusions
- Conditions
- Endorsements/Riders
Being familiar with this layout helps you navigate policies from different carriers faster — and with more confidence.
🔍 3. Focus on the Coverages
Learn the big four for homeowners:
- Coverage A – Dwelling
- Coverage B – Other Structures
- Coverage C – Personal Property
- Coverage D – Loss of Use
Make sure you know:
- What each coverage protects
- Dollar limits and restrictions
- Applicable deductibles
🚫 4. Don’t Skip the Exclusions
Exclusions are where the real surprises live — and where adjusters either earn trust or lose credibility.
Common exclusions include:
- Flood (handled separately by NFIP or private carriers)
- Earth movement
- Neglect or wear-and-tear
- Intentional damage
⚠️ Important: Just because something is damaged doesn’t mean it’s covered. Always check exclusions before approving a claim.
📝 5. Conditions Can Make or Break a Claim
Policy conditions spell out the responsibilities of both the insurer and the insured. These might include:
- Timely reporting of a loss
- Allowing inspections
- Providing proof of loss
- Protecting the property from further damage
👉 Pro Tip: If the policyholder doesn’t fulfill the conditions, coverage can be denied — even if the damage would otherwise be covered.
🧾 6. Read the Endorsements Last
Endorsements modify the base policy — they can add, restrict, or change coverage. Think of them as the fine-tuning of the agreement.
Examples:
- Roof Surface Exclusion
- Increased Limits for Jewelry or Firearms
- Ordinance or Law Coverage
✅ Always cross-reference endorsements listed on the DEC page to ensure you apply them correctly.
💼 7. Practice Makes Perfect
Just like Xactimate or sketching, reading policies takes repetition. The more policies you review, the faster you’ll recognize key language and red flags.
At MileHigh Adjusters Houston, we simulate real-world claim scenarios that include full policy reviews — so our students learn to read, interpret, and apply coverage in a way that mirrors what happens in the field.
🎯 Final Thoughts: Learn the Language of Coverage
Reading a policy isn’t just about checking boxes — it’s about understanding what’s protected, what’s not, and what’s required. If you can speak the language of coverage, you’ll gain the trust of IA firms and policyholders alike.
Ready to sharpen your policy-reading skills with hands-on experience and expert guidance?
👉 Join one of our Boot Camps or explore Online Training options today.
📍 MileHigh Adjusters Houston
🎓 Online & In-Person Adjuster Training
💡 Real-World Simulations | Xactimate Mastery | Career Coaching
🌐 www.milehighadjustershouston.com
📞 281-741-8505
📣 Training the Special Forces of Adjusters!