Podcast
What's the Scenario? with PLRB
Hosted by PLRB · EN
Formerly "PLRB on Demand", this podcast feed is being rebooted as "What's the Scenario? with PLRB." Each week you'll find a 20-minute episode that addresses a claims or coverage scenario and answers interesting insurance questions. Our PLRB team of Alissha Watley, Mike Brode, and Tim Havlir will discuss terrorism, pandemics, fireworks, NFTs, aggressive contractors, phone scams, matching, vacation rentals, and more. Stay subscribed to this feed and check back in the new year for a new podcast.
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Please reach out to us with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to scenario@plrb.org. If you send us an audio clip, we may use the audio in the show, though again we will only include material we can anonymize.
Legal Information
The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate.
23episodes
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[REPLAY] Herding Weather/CATs
4d ago00:25:14Tap to summarizeRight now we're traveling back from this week's successful Eastern Regional Conference. So this week, as we head into summer, we're sharing an episode on how to take advantage of all the services that the PLRB Weather/CATs department has to offer. A supervisor leads a team of very needy CAT adjusters! Over the course of the year, the supervisor fields many questions as it comes up in their claims. Was there hail on X date? Was there lightning in the area? This hurricane is coming soon, where can I get news about it? Winter weather caused a slip and fall!! Where can I find information on wildfire perimeters and California evacuations? For help herding all these cats, we'll head to PLRB.org. Notable Timestamps [ 00:00 ] - The episode introduces a scenario where a supervisor fields constant weather-related questions from cat adjusters, highlighting the need for a centralized, reliable source for hail, lightning, hurricanes, wildfires, and more. [ 02:15 ] - The team previews multiple scenarios—winter storms, hail, lightning, power outages, tornadoes, hurricanes, and wildfires—showing the breadth of searchable weather data available to support claim investigations. [ 03:16 ] - Using a winter slip-and-fall in Iowa City, Iowa, the report pulls verified storm data from the National Weather Service, including freezing rain reports and hourly observations to validate conditions on the date of loss. [ 07:42 ] - For hail damage in Illinois, radar-derived data and verified hail reports allow adjusters to map proximity, estimated hail size, and associated severe thunderstorm warnings tied to a specific date and address. [ 09:53 ] - Lightning reports provide daily probability percentages and satellite detection data, helping assess commercial equipment claims while noting limits in resolution and cloud-to-cloud versus cloud-to-ground distinctions. [ 12:25 ] - Power outage searches archive data every ten minutes via PowerOutage.us, identifying outage timing, affected customers, and likely storm causes—critical for business interruption investigations. [ 14:09 ] - A tornado case study of the Mayfield event demonstrates wind reports, damage points, and EF-scale path polygons, enabling precise analysis of storm track and intensity relative to a property. [ 17:31 ] - Wildfire tools include historical perimeters like the Garnett Fire, evacuation zones, thermal hotspots, smoke analysis from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration data, and hurricane spaghetti models—underscoring a single portal for comprehensive weather intelligence. [ 17:49 ] - Dylan summarized upcoming PLRB Weather/CATs developments. Your PLRB Resources Weather/CATS Hub - https://members.plrb.org/weather-cat/ Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company. Subscribe to this Podcast Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau" Send us your Scenario! Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to scenario@plrb.org. Legal Information The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate. Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).
Transcribe →Rounding the Bases to Establish Negligence
2w ago00:18:02Tap to summarizeWe're calling "foul ball!" A spectator at a local minor league baseball game was injured when a foul ball zipped through a tear in the safety net and broke his arm. The spectator claims that the stadium owed him a safe environment, that it knew about the tear and didn't fix it, and that the mascot wasn't even that funny. To score, our litigant is going to have to run all four bases of the core elements of negligence: duty, breach, causation, and damages. Notable Timestamps [ 00:00 ] - A foul ball injury at a minor league game sets the stage for a negligence analysis, focusing on whether the stadium failed to maintain a safe environment after allegedly knowing about a damaged safety net. [ 05:02 ] - The first element of negligence is duty. A stadium generally owes spectators a duty of reasonable care, especially when protective measures such as safety netting are installed for fan protection. [ 05:40 ] - The second element is breach. If stadium personnel knew about a tear in the net and failed to repair it, that omission may constitute a breach of the duty owed to spectators. [ 08:56 ] - Causation requires a direct connection between the breach and the injury. The claimant must show the foul ball passed through the known defect and that the injury was a foreseeable result. [ 10:14 ] - A claimant's own actions can affect the analysis. Attempts to catch a foul ball, distraction, or impairment could introduce comparative or contributory negligence issues depending on state law. [ 11:24 ] - Damages are essential to a negligence claim. Even if a duty existed and was breached, recovery is unlikely without a measurable injury, financial loss, or other legally recognized harm. [ 12:11 ] - A personal auto accident example illustrates that negligence claims can fail despite a breach of duty when no injury or property damage occurs. Reaching only part of the negligence analysis is not enough. [ 13:15 ] - The discussion highlights how emotional distress claims can complicate matters. Jurisdictions differ on whether symptoms without clear bodily injury satisfy policy language or legal damage requirements. [ 14:43 ] - Not every liability case follows ordinary negligence rules. Certain ultra-hazardous activities or situations involving strict liability may shift the focus away from proving the traditional four negligence elements. [ 16:21 ] - The key lesson is that successful negligence claims require all four elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. Missing any one element can prevent recovery, regardless of the strength of the others. Your PLRB Resources Introduction to Negligence Concepts https://members.plrb.org/education/courses/introduction-to-negligence-concepts Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company. Subscribe to this Podcast Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau" Send us your Scenario! Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to scenario@plrb.org. Legal Information The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate. Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).
Transcribe →My Cat Set My House On Fire
3w ago00:13:36Tap to summarizeA cat jumps on the stove to get leftovers, accidentally turns a burner, and starts a kitchen fire. The homeowner has heard of an exclusion that applies to damage caused by animals owned or kept by an insured, and is concerned that the fire will not be covered. Exactly how mad should the homeowner be with their cat? (And how long can they stay mad at that face?) Notable Timestamps [ 00:00 ] - A kitchen fire caused by a pet can initially alarm insureds who may believe the animal exclusion automatically bars coverage for any damage involving their cat or dog. [ 00:53 ] - The discussion highlights how insureds may hesitate to disclose that a pet caused the loss because they fear the claim will be denied under the policy language. [ 03:39 ] - Investigating unusual fire losses often requires origin-and-cause experts, especially when evidence suggests a stove burner was turned on without any appliance malfunction. [ 05:07 ] - The key distinction is that animal-caused property damage itself may be excluded, while the resulting fire can still qualify as a covered peril under the policy. [ 05:50 ] - Claims involving uncommon exclusions remind adjusters to carefully read the actual policy wording instead of relying on assumptions about what is or is not covered. [ 06:12 ] - Ordinary pet damage like chewing, scratching, or staining is different from a sudden accidental event such as a kitchen fire. [ 07:24 ] - Adjusters generally approach claims by looking for coverage where it exists. [ 08:45 ] - Animal exclusions are often intended to address ongoing maintenance-type damage rather than fortuitous accidental losses. [ 10:10 ] - While some courts have interpreted animal exclusions broadly, the cited cases involved extreme situations with dozens of pets causing extensive property damage. [ 11:54 ] - Maintaining good communication and rapport with insureds can help overcome misconceptions about coverage and encourage honest discussion during the investigation. Your PLRB Resources Birds, Vermin, Rodents, or Insects; Animals Owned or Kept (HO133) https://members.plrb.org/documents/birds-vermin-rodents-or-insects-animals-owned-or-kept-ho133 Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company. Subscribe to this Podcast Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau" Send us your Scenario! Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to scenario@plrb.org. Legal Information The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate. Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).
Transcribe →Wildfire: Why Do Adjusters Get a Bad Rap?
4w ago00:20:49Tap to summarizeWildfire claims are emotional, public, and inconsistent across carriers, so adjusters often become the face of "no." Using a real fire example, we'll explore empathy, advance payments, uneven guidance, social media comparisons, and follow-through as tools to protect our reputation. Notable Timestamps [ 00:09 ] - Wildfire claims can be highly emotional and public, and adjusters often become the visible representative of difficult coverage decisions. [ 01:28 ] - PLRB recognizes Outstanding Claims Professionals not only for technical skill, but also for restoring lives and setting standards in customer service. [ 03:03 ] - Social media, neighborhood groups, and AI tools now shape insured expectations, creating more questions and adding complexity for adjusters. [ 05:16 ] - Policyholders often see claim differences as inconsistency where it may simply represent variation in policies, property details, and carrier practices. [ 06:54 ] - Adjusters build trust by explaining policies in everyday language instead of relying on technical wording or policy jargon. [ 09:29 ] - Starting conversations with what can be done, rather than limitations, helps reduce tension and discourages adversarial reactions. [ 10:28 ] - Advance payments and early support for housing and immediate needs can ease stress and strengthen the insured-adjuster relationship. [ 14:58 ] - Consistent communication matters; policyholders often prefer hearing "I don't have an answer yet" over silence or missed follow-ups. [ 16:48 ] - Listening for recurring concerns allows adjusters to anticipate needs, act proactively, and create more confidence in the claims process. Your PLRB Resources CE Course: Investigating and Resolving Different Types of Wildfire Losses https://members.plrb.org/education/courses/investigating-and-resolving-different-types-of-wildfire-losses Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company. Subscribe to this Podcast Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau" Send us your Scenario! Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to scenario@plrb.org. Legal Information The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate. Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).
Transcribe →[REPLAY] Bumping Brewery Bollards
May 1500:19:24Tap to summarize[REPLAY] This week, check out a podcast featured in PLRB's new PACE Program: "The new PLRB Advanced Coverage Education (PACE) designation is more than a credential. It's a powerful way to strengthen your claims expertise. PACE begins with a Core Curriculum that builds a foundation in insurance basics and the claims process. From there, professionals can grow through Business LineTracks that support field-specific development, and Claims Intensives that dive deeper into essential topics like fraud and ethics. Developed with PLRB's long‑standing commitment to high‑quality education, PACE helps claims professionals work with greater clarity, consistency, and confidence. And because certification courses are included in PLRB Membership, with discounted designation fees, it's a valuable investment in both employee development and organizational success. PACE supports professionals at every stage of their careers and helps teams work more confidently and efficiently." A brewery owner had bollards installed outside the building for safety purposes. One day a teenager veered off the road into one of the bollards, damaging it and the car. The adjuster is wondering if there should be no coverage on the basis that a bollard is a fence. Notable Timestamps [ 00:26 ] - The building owner submits the claim to their property insurer, looking for coverage for a new bollard. They have a standard CP 00 10 10 12, which does not include coverage for fences if the cause of loss was an accidental vehicle crash. [ 01:34 ] - Trivia time! What is a "pub" short for? How many Clydesdales are hitched to the Budweiser wagon? Lite beer was introduced into the U.S. in what decade? [ 04:15 ] - A bollard is a short pole or stump placed to prevent vehicle access without preventing pedestrian access. These may be seen at the entrances to bike paths, or out in front of buildings or arenas. [ 05:40 ] - Under the CP form, a bollard would initially fit under building coverage as an external fixture. Fences are excluded except for certain types of losses (not including this kind of loss). [ 07:30 ] - A line of bollards, like a fence, is something like a barrier that marks a boundary. But, there is no continuity between posts, and it does not prevent pedestrian access. [ 09:11 ] - A historic moment: the team agrees on something! [ 09:37 ] - Courts typically do not construe ambiguous exclusions broadly. "If it's gray, you must pay." [ 10:40 ] - Declarations Pages are typically more detailed in CP forms, and often include small structures. However, at least one court chose not to penalize an insured for failing to list a series of (light) posts. [ 12:26 ] - If a Declarations Page lists most structures specifically but omits some, that may create an issue for the insured. [ 13:25 ] - Strong subrogration potential exists here against the driver. [ 14:30 ] - A cement block wall was considered a fence... at least according to a 1959 case, and under a grant of coverage which is typically construed more broadly. [ 16:40 ] - Tim provides a recap of the scenario and the points above. Your PLRB Resources Bollards: Do They Qualify As Fences? – PCQ.2017.05.09.twh.a - https://www.plrb.org/documents/bollards-do-they-qualify-as-fences-pcq-2017-05-09-twh-a/ Annotation: Property Outside Buildings (CP622) - https://www.plrb.org/documents/property-outside-buildings-cp622/ Chippewa Country Valley Festival v. Little Black Mut Ins Co (2002) - https://www.plrb.org/documents/chippewa-country-valley-festival-v-little-black-mut-ins-co-2002/ Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company. Subscribe to this Podcast Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau" Send us your Scenario! Please reach out to us with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to scenario@plrb.org. Legal Information The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate. Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).
Transcribe →Fact or Fixture? That Ceiling Tile is Personal Property!
May 800:23:34Tap to summarizeThe roof of a 100-year-old farmhouse suddenly collapses under the weight of water. The building was insured under a farm policy that, in this case, only provided coverage for personal property and not the dwelling or real property. The insured claims that the carpet, water heater, and even ceiling tiles are all personal property, and therefore covered! What is a fixture? Notable Timestamps [ 00:00 ] - The episode explores how fixture disputes affect insurance coverage, using a collapsed farmhouse roof scenario where coverage depended on whether damaged items qualified as personal property or part of the dwelling. [ 01:18 ] - The hosts announce the launch of the PACE Program, highlighting it as a new educational resource now available for insurance professionals looking to expand their industry knowledge. [ 03:00 ] - Whether something is a fixture can impact both available coverage and policy limits. [ 06:24 ] - Built-in shelving and ceiling fans are discussed as likely fixtures because they are permanently attached, difficult to move, and generally intended to remain with the property over time. [ 08:06 ] - Portable appliances like air fryers and mini fridges are contrasted with fixtures because owners clearly intend to take them when moving, making them easier to classify as personal property. [ 09:51 ] - Wall-to-wall carpeting illustrates the gray areas in fixture analysis, as courts may examine attachment methods, customization, and whether the carpet could realistically be removed and reused elsewhere. [ 12:22 ] - Furnaces and water heaters seem like obvious fixtures, yet disputes can still arise when tenants claim ownership and argue they intended to remove the equipment when leaving the property. [ 16:52 ] - Decorative ceiling tiles from a 100-year-old farmhouse became the focus of a court case, where the court ultimately ruled they were fixtures because they enhanced the property and were intended to stay with the home. [ 21:31 ] - The closing takeaways emphasize that courts analyze factors like physical attachment, ease of removal, and the parties' intent when determining whether property qualifies as a fixture under insurance policies. Your PLRB Resources Check out the PACE Program! https://www.plrb.org/pace-program/ Dwelling - Coverage A (HO11) https://members.plrb.org/documents/dwelling-ho11#toc26 Pierce v. State Farm Fire & Cas. Co. (2020) https://members.plrb.org/documents/pierce-v-state-farm-fire-cas-co-2020 Tenant Improvements & Betterments in Commercial Cases https://members.plrb.org/education/courses/tenant-improvements-amp-betterments-in-commercial-cases Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company. Subscribe to this Podcast Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau" Send us your Scenario! Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to scenario@plrb.org. Legal Information The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate. Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).
Transcribe →Classes & Categories of Water: a PACE Program Exercise
May 100:23:48Tap to summarizeA foot of stormwater in your home, and a contractor saying "Let's dry it in place?" That was the scenario explored in Courtney Makris' PLRB Presents talk "When the Storm Hits Home: Courtney's Personal Journey through Hurricane Helene," and today Mike & Brennan will look at that scenario through the lens of the Categories & Classes of water, with the help of a PACE Program exercise. Notable Timestamps [ 00:06 ] - The episode introduces a real-world water loss scenario tied to a major storm, highlighting how widespread damage and contractor recommendations can complicate mitigation decisions for adjusters. [ 01:05 ] - The discussion draws from a hurricane case study and shifts focus to how water "categories" and "classes" relate to the standards guiding mitigation decisions. [ 04:24 ] - Water losses are a major focus in claims education, covering issues like pipe breaks, backups vs. overflows, and wind-driven rain—showing how varied and complex water damage scenarios can be. [ 05:11 ] - Not all water is equal; category classifications depend on contamination levels, meaning the source and exposure history of water directly impact risk and required remediation. [ 06:02 ] - Category 1 water can be clean and sanitary, Category 2 introduces contaminants that may cause illness, and Category 3 can be highly hazardous, often containing toxic or pathogenic substances. [ 07:25 ] - Practical examples like dishwasher discharge illustrate how the same appliance can produce different water categories depending on whether the source is incoming clean water or outgoing waste. [ 10:36 ] - Even seemingly clean sources like rainwater can shift categories based on contact with materials or time sitting stagnant, emphasizing that context and exposure matter. [ 12:20 ] - Floodwater is nearly always Category 3 due to contamination from ground contact and stagnation, making it especially dangerous despite common public perceptions. [ 14:46 ] - Water "class" differs from category by focusing on how much water is present, how deeply it's absorbed, and how difficult it is to dry. [ 19:01 ] - Mitigation strategies vary widely: clean water may allow simple drying, while contaminated water often requires removal of materials like drywall and insulation. Your PLRB Resources Check out the PACE Program! https://www.plrb.org/pace-program/ When the Storm Hits Home: Courtney's Personal Journey through Hurricane Helene https://youtu.be/2VE7i_0KAKc Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company. Subscribe to this Podcast Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau" Send us your Scenario! Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to scenario@plrb.org. Legal Information The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate. Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).
Transcribe →The Personal Property Inventory Game Show!
Apr 2400:24:23Tap to summarizeA fire broke out in the insured's basement, where various household and personal items were stored. The insured husband is a recreational pilot. His wife is an accountant. Their two children and dog also live in the home with them. The fire caused heavy smoke and heat damage throughout the basement and adjoining utility room. The insured provided a personal property inventory form listing everything believed to be damaged or destroyed. What falls under Property Not Covered? In this preview of the PACE program's personal lines course, we'll explore the basics of the different roles in the insurance industry. Notable Timestamps [ 00:07 ] - The scenario introduces a basement fire damaging stored personal property, setting up a practical lens for analyzing what items may or may not be covered under a homeowners policy. [ 03:10 ] - The PACE program is designed to guide learners through the full claims lifecycle, from coverage analysis to investigation and resolution, providing both foundational and advanced insights. [ 06:15 ] - Understanding home construction elements like plumbing, roofing, and wiring can directly impact coverage analysis, as these features often influence cause, scope, and policy interpretation. [ 07:20 ] - A key distinction: exclusions focus on *why* damage occurred, while Property Not Covered provisions focus on *what* was damaged. [ 08:05 ] - Policies may list numerous categories of Property Not Covered, including animals, motor vehicles, aircraft parts, and certain business or digital assets. [ 10:45 ] - Personal property inventories are critical documents in claims handling, requiring adjusters to evaluate each listed item against policy language and applicable coverage limitations. [ 13:40 ] - Some items, like pet-related supplies, may be covered even when the pet itself is not, highlighting the importance of distinguishing between living property and associated goods. [ 17:30 ] - Virtual currency presents valuation and verification challenges, which is why it is typically listed under Property Not Covered and may require specialized coverage or endorsements. [ 19:45 ] - Property Not Covered likely applies to aircraft parts regardless of how they are intended to be used. [ 21:10 ] - Generally speaking, ambiguities favor the insured, but ambiguity only occurs when terms are reasonably open to multiple meanings. Your PLRB Resources Sign Up for Updates on the Designation Program! https://2it6qrau8fd.typeform.com/pacedesignation Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company. Subscribe to this Podcast Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau" Send us your Scenario! Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to scenario@plrb.org. Legal Information The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate. Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).
Transcribe →Who's Who in the Industry?
Apr 1700:20:08Tap to summarizeA major storm hits the city. Sarah's bakery suffers roof damage, water leakage, and equipment loss. Sarah has heard lots of insurance job titles thrown around: policyholder, agent, broker, adjuster, underwriter, actuary-- who are all these people? In this preview of the PACE program's core on-boarding course, we'll explore the basics of the different roles in the insurance industry. Notable Timestamps [ 00:00 ] - The episode opens with a storm-damage scenario at Sara's bakery, setting up a practical lens for understanding insurance roles and how multiple professionals intersect during a single claim event. [ 00:59 ] - The lighthearted "Dec Page" segment underscores how real-world disruptions—like severe Midwest storms affecting travel—mirror the unpredictability that drives many insurance claims. [ 04:42 ] - The PACE program is practical and scenario-driven, aiming to demystify industry jargon and help both newcomers and experienced professionals apply concepts across claims and underwriting contexts. [ 06:25 ] - The "insurer" is the insurance company, while the "insured" is the policyholder. [ 08:02 ] - Insurance roles are tied to broader processes, including application, underwriting, claims handling, and premium rating, reinforcing that each role fits into a larger operational lifecycle. [ 10:11 ] - Agents typically represent the insurer (sometimes as captive or independent), while brokers represent the policyholder, helping match complex risks with appropriate carriers. [ 12:13 ] - Agents and brokers often remain involved beyond policy purchase, serving as trusted first contacts when a loss occurs and guiding policyholders through the claims process. [ 14:08 ] - Adjusters and claims professionals evaluate damage, determine coverage, and help restore policyholders, while TPAs and independent adjusters may be hired to handle claims on behalf of insurers. [ 16:46 ] - Because titles vary widely, professionals are encouraged to clearly introduce their role to policyholders, improving understanding and trust during what can be a confusing claims experience. [ 18:15 ] - Final takeaways reinforce core distinctions (insurer vs. insured), note that definitions may vary by policy, and highlight the importance of understanding agents, brokers, adjusters, and TPAs. Your PLRB Resources Sign Up for Updates on the Designation Program! https://2it6qrau8fd.typeform.com/pacedesignation Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company. Subscribe to this Podcast Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau" Send us your Scenario! Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to scenario@plrb.org. Legal Information The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate. Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).
Transcribe →The PACE Designation Program
Apr 1000:17:41Tap to summarizeA claims supervisor with plenty of adjusting experience is looking to open doors to new opportunities with a credential that will signal their advanced claims knowledge. They're also responsible for onboarding some new adjusters who are brand new to the field of insurance, and need to get ready to handle claims. As PLRB members, they'll have access to the PACE Designation Program, which can equip participants with the skills and confidence needed to excel in key areas of claims handling. Notable Timestamps [ 02:07 ] - Introducing a fun new segment called "The Dec Page," our hosts reflect on the 2026 PLRB Claims Conference, highlighting the value of in-person learning, networking, and shared industry enthusiasm in a conference setting. [ 04:18 ] - The PACE Designation Program has been announced! This structured educational initiative is designed to help participants better understand insurance concepts through a guided and engaging learning experience. [ 05:09 ] - The PACE Designation Program starts with a Core, building foundational claims and coverage understanding to empower learners to advance to more complex topics. The Personal Lines Track then dives deep into residential and Homeowners losses. [ 07:46 ] - "Claims intensives" offer flexibility within the program, allowing learners to tailor their path based on interests and career goals. [ 11:54 ] - The program was developed using member feedback, addressing a clear need for training both new entrants unfamiliar with insurance and experienced professionals seeking deeper expertise. [ 12:47 ] - The PACE Designation Program covers both foundational claims concepts and material specific to each line of business (starting with Personal Lines). [ 13:05 ] - Advanced content explores nuanced coverage issues, including policy interpretation and legal influences, reflecting the complexity and depth of real-world claims decision-making. [ 13:50 ] - The program extends beyond technical skills to include ethics, fraud awareness, and people skills, reinforcing the well-rounded competencies needed in modern claims roles. [ 14:58 ] - Future expansions aim to include additional lines like casualty and auto, along with commercial coverage, positioning the program as a comprehensive, multi-discipline education track. Your PLRB Resources Sign Up to Learn More! https://2it6qrau8fd.typeform.com/pacedesignation Employees of member companies also have access to a searchable legal database, hundreds of hours of video trainings, building code materials, weather data, and even the ability to have your coverage questions answered by our team of attorneys (https://www.plrb.org/ask-plrb/) at no additional charge to you or your company. Subscribe to this Podcast Your Podcast App - Please subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcast app YouTube - Please like and subscribe at @plrb LinkedIN - Please follow at "Property and Liability Resource Bureau" Send us your Scenario! Please reach out to us at 630-509-8704 with your scenario! This could be your "adjuster story" sharing a situation from your claims experience, or a burning question you would like the team to answer. In any case, please omit any personal information as we will anonymize your story before we share. Just reach out to scenario@plrb.org. Legal Information The views and opinions expressed in this resource are those of the individual speaker and not necessarily those of the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB), its membership, or any organization with which the presenter is employed or affiliated. The information, ideas, and opinions are presented as information only and not as legal advice or offers of representation. Individual policy language and state laws vary, and listeners should rely on guidance from their companies and counsel as appropriate. Music: "Piece of Future" by Keyframe_Audio. Pixabay. Pixabay License. Font: Metropolis by Chris Simpson. SIL OFL 1.1. Icons: FontAwesome (SIL OFL 1.1) and Noun Project (royalty-free licenses purchased via subscription). Sound Effects: Pixabay (Pixabay License) and Freesound.org (CC0).
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