Frequently Asked Questions

An independent adjuster inspects and documents losses, prepares estimates and inventories, and reports findings. Insurance carriers engage Bronson Claims for independent adjusting. Policyholders can engage Bronson Claims for independent third-party consulting, such as repair estimates, contents inventories, documentation, and appraiser or umpire services.

No. Bronson Claims Consultants does not negotiate on behalf of insureds or settle property claims, and does not provide legal advice. For policyholders, we provide independent third-party consulting, estimates, documentation, and appraisal/umpire services. We provide independent estimates and documentation that you can submit to your insurance carrier yourself, if you choose. You stay in charge of your claim and all communication with your carrier.

Over 18 years of insurance claims handling experience, beginning with Allstate catastrophe and large-loss field adjusting in 2008, continuing through Homesite and Farmers, and now through Bronson Claims Consultants LLC, established in 2020.

Auto, home, commercial, and marine claims, including additional living expenses and loss of use, along with vintage auto appraisals.

Oregon Independent Adjuster License #10916736, Washington OIC License #1044787, ODOT Vehicle Appraiser License ID #V65-153, and NPN 10916736.

Yes. Work can include scene and cause-related review, recorded statements, records and document review, and detailed written investigative reports.

Yes, for insurance carriers. Daniel T. Barker spent two years at Homesite working hand in hand with the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) and has completed continuing education in adjusting suspicious or fraudulent fire claims and investigating personal lines fraud.

Yes. Daniel T. Barker is available for expert witness work and court testimony on claims handling, estimating, and valuation. Engagement terms are set in writing for each matter.

Yes. When a policy’s appraisal clause is invoked to settle a disagreement over the amount of loss, Bronson Claims can serve as an independent, unbiased, and disinterested appraiser or as umpire on auto, home, commercial, and marine claims. Daniel T. Barker has served as an appraiser on a high volume of claims throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Yes. Bronson Claims provides independent, unbiased, and disinterested written appraisals of vintage, classic, and collector vehicles, backed by over 30 years of experience with classic cars. Daniel T. Barker holds ODOT Vehicle Appraiser License ID #V65-153.

We keep it simple with flat rate or hourly pricing, depending on the assignment. Your fee is confirmed in writing before work begins.

Yes. Support after the fact, such as depositions or testimony, is included with no additional fees. This is limited to files Bronson Claims handled and does not include travel or accommodations. Additional terms apply.

As soon as practical after damage is discovered. Early documentation helps preserve details. Policy notice and protection-of-property duties still apply, and your policy sets those timelines.

Many policies require prompt notice and may limit the time to bring a claim or suit, often measured in months or a year, depending on the contract and jurisdiction. Review your policy and consider legal advice for deadlines. Filing sooner generally helps with documentation.

Most policies allow you to choose your own contractor, and we can work with the contractor you select.

Many homeowners and commercial policies allow recovery of recoverable depreciation when repairs or replacements are completed; some dwelling or landlord forms do not. Your policy language sets the rules, and your carrier can confirm how they apply to your claim.

Some jurisdictions and policies allow supplemental claims within set periods after a loss. Check your policy and contact your carrier about a supplement. If you choose, we can prepare an independent estimate of the added damage that you can submit yourself.