Clarifying the claims process if your greenhouse or nursery is damaged

Added December 3, 2021

Severe weather, equipment failure, natural disasters, electrical fire, theft, and vandalism can all lead to damage to your greenhouse or nursery. No matter what led to the damage, you'll likely need to submit a claim to your insurance provider. Knowing what to expect once you file a property claim can clarify the steps toward your business's recovery.

Whether the damage is minimal or monumental, your commercial property insurance can help protect your bottom line during and after the recovery process. Commercial property coverage not only applies to your buildings and greenhouses, but also to your equipment and inventory contained within those structures.

Know what to expect after you file a claim

Dealing with property damage to your greenhouse or nursery can be an upsetting experience on several levels. First, you have the immediate worry of assessing the damage and protecting your employees and inventory. Second, you need to know how to begin the recovery process as soon as possible. And, as you can imagine, it could be difficult to focus on the nuances of claims processing when water is pouring through a broken ceiling panel during peak growing season.

That's why having an insurance provider you can rely on is so important. Not only does insurance help protect your bottom line, but it can also provide peace of mind when you need it.

To help prepare you for the unexpected, review this outline of five steps you can expect to follow should you ever need to file a property damage claim for your horticultural business.

1. You've submitted a claim

Once you report a property damage claim, your insurance company will assign an adjuster to your case. An adjuster will inspect the property damage and submit a report to your insurance provider. If applicable, your insurance provider will issue a settlement.

2. You'll receive an onsite visit by a claims adjuster

Be prepared for a visit from the claims adjuster who will inspect your property damage firsthand. Have all the details you collected when you submitted the claim available if the adjuster has any questions. Your photos, claim details, and any additional notes will help ensure you get the most accurate damage estimate.

3. Your claims adjuster submits a damage estimate

After the onsite visit, the claims adjuster will create a property damage estimate and submit it to your insurance provider. With this estimate, your provider will consider your horticulture business's policy coverages, limits, and deductibles.

4. Your insurer provides a settlement decision

Based on the property damage estimate and your insurance coverages, your provider may issue a settlement, which is the money they agree to give you to repair or replace your damaged property.

5. Your claim is settled

If a settlement payment is issued, use the funds to compensate your property damage repairs. Once the dust settles a bit, take some time to re-evaluate your property insurance coverage and work with your provider to update your policy as needed.

Your insurance provider can help you

Don't be afraid to lean on your insurer during a crisis. Our extensively trained claims professionals can guide you through the claims process and determine what vital information to gather.

We only serve the horticultural industry and understand the risks you face. If you have questions or would like to learn more about our insurance coverages and processes, Hortica representatives can help you. Contact us.