❓ What does an independent insurance assessor do?
An independent assessor investigates the cause and extent of damage, reviews insurer assessments or scopes, and provides a neutral, technical report that supports a fair outcome. We’re here to assist your insurance claim not to sell repairs or take sides.
❓ Who do you help?
We assist homeowners, landlords, brokers, property managers, and claims handlers who need:
Clarity on the cause of damage
A second opinion on an insurer’s decision
Evidence to challenge a denied or underpaid claim
Technical scope support and reinstatement insight
❓ Do you only work with declined insurance claims?
No — we can assist at any stage of the claim process, including before it's lodged, during delays, or when the scope or cause is unclear. While many clients contact us after a claim is declined, we prefer to be involved earlier to help avoid disputes altogether. That said, not all declined claims are unfair — and we’ll thoroughly review each case to assess whether there’s a valid basis and realistic chance of achieving a better outcome before proceeding. We don’t believe in wasting your time (or the insurer’s) if a settlement isn’t likely.
❓ What’s the difference between an assessor and a loss adjuster?
A loss adjuster is typically appointed by the insurer and works on their behalf. In some case Loss Adjusters can also be independant.
An independent insurance assessor generally works directly for the policyholder or broker providing clarity, documentation, and evidence to support your best outcome.
❓ What is a "claim assistance" service?
Claim assist means providing expert support through the insurance process. We help assess the damage, interpret the policy, and prepare the technical evidence needed to assist your claim especially in complex or borderline cases.
❓ Can you help if my insurer says it’s “gradual damage”?
Yes. Gradual damage is one of the most common reasons for claim decline, but also one of the most misapplied. We provide deskptop reviews, onsite inspections, moisture diagnostics, and policy commentary to determine whether that decision holds up.
❓ Can you assess roof leaks or water ingress?
Absolutely. We specialise in common dispute areas like:
❓ Do you replace or repair anything?
No — we don’t carry out repairs or restoration ourselves. That’s what keeps our assessments truly independent and objective. However, we work closely with a network of trusted professionals across reinstatement, restoration, and repairs. If you need help engaging the right contractor for the next step, we’re happy to introduce you to someone who meets industry standards and understands the insurance process, or is able to meet you needs once settlement has been finalised.
❓ How long does an assessment take?
Where a site visit is required, most onsite assessments within Auckland, Northern Waikato, the Coromandel, and up to Mangawhai can be completed within 24–48 hours of engagement. Reports are typically delivered within 3–5 working days, depending on complexity and access.
If you're located outside this core service area (roughly Tauranga to Mangawhai), we’ll usually arrange a virtual assessment or desktop review based on the information available. In cases where travel outside the region is necessary, this will be discussed with you in advance.
We’ll always recommend the most efficient and cost-effective approach for your specific claim.
❓ What is a virtual or desktop assessment?
A virtual assessment or desktop assessment is a remote review of a claim using the available documentation, photos, videos, and communication — without an in-person site visit. These are often suitable when:
A previous assessment has already been completed
The damage is well documented
The property is outside our core service area
A faster, cost-effective option is preferred
We analyse insurer scopes, correspondence, and any visual evidence provided, and can issue a professional opinion or supporting report based on that review. If we identify anything unclear or unresolved, we may recommend a follow-up site visit but in many cases, virtual assessments are all that’s needed to move the claim forward.
❓ Are your reports accepted by insurers?
Yes — our reports are written in a respectful, professional format and supported by clear technical evidence. We’re not here to create conflict; our role is to provide clarity that helps everyone move forward. Insurers often want to get things right but are limited by the information or skill level of the original assessor or builder involved. Our independent assessments help bridge that gap — and in many cases, our reports have led to claims being accepted or corrected without the need for disputes or escalation.
❓ What areas do you cover?
We provide assessment services throughout New Zealand, including remote support where physical site access isn't possible. For larger or complex claims, we can travel by arrangement.
❓ What does it cost?
We don't operate on a traditional “no win, no fee” model — but in most cases, we charge a modest success-based fee, typically 5–10% of the approved settlement amount. This is often factored into the final insurance payout, meaning you're not directly out of pocket.
We also offer fixed fee arrangements for certain scenrios and for standard residential assessments, we also offer fixed pricing depending on the size and complexity of the claim.
Rates for commercial clients or scoped consultancy services may differ, depending on the property type, report requirements, and time involved.
You'll always receive a clear fee outline before we begin — no surprises, no pressure, and only if we believe there's a realistic chance of success.
❓ How do I get started?
Simple — just contact us with your claim details. We’ll review your situation and advise the best next step.
