Reopened claim

More claims & insurance terms

• Re-inspection

  A second look at a property or a completed repair, usually requested by the carrier, a reviewer, or the homeowner. It can confirm the work, reopen a disputed item, or trigger a supplement, so keep the same documentation package ready and note who attended.

• Rebuttal

  A written, evidence-backed response explaining why the carrier's estimate does not fully cover the loss.

• Replacement cost value

  What it costs to repair or replace the damage with like kind and quality at today's prices, without deducting for age. Most policies pay it only after the work is done and invoiced, so keep receipts and completion photos to collect the recoverable depreciation.

• Reservation of rights

  A letter in which the carrier says it is still investigating coverage and may deny the claim later. It is not a denial, but it means every dollar needs documentation, so keep working the file and answer requests on time.

• Roofing consultant

  An independent inspector who documents roof condition and writes a report supporting either the property owner or the carrier. In a disputed claim, their report can push a scope disagreement toward resolution. A consultant advises and documents but does not approve payment.

• S500 standard

  The IICRC's water damage restoration standard that sets the categories and classes of water loss and the standard drying approach. In a claim it is the baseline for what counts as reasonable drying. It is a restoration standard, not a policy or a payment rule.

Common questions