How does 360 scanning help expedite claims processing?
Technology is creating opportunities for insurers and contractors to consolidate resources for all parties to a claim.
While many claims professionals are familiar with the concept of 360-degree scan and/or photographing technologies, I meet many who do not know how to utilize these resources. As a property restoration contractor, I was resistant to this integration as I thought, “I’ve got my system down.” I didn’t think that I needed a new tool but was pleasantly surprised when the company I was consulting with at the time purchased one of these technologies. My goal with this article is to share how 360 scanning can help expedite claims processing.
Remote access to the structure
Property restoration contractors and insurance claims adjusters are struggling to attract and retain employees. Technology has created avenues to expand reach and consolidate resources for all parties to a claim. Both of the leading technologies, Matterport and DocuSketch, provide anyone with access to the program the ability to conduct a virtual walkthrough of the affected structure. If the restorer is first onsite, or vice-versa, and they conduct a 360-degree capture of the damaged property, there should be few barriers to sharing this information. The only limits of the tool are related to lack of capture points, otherwise, the data is impartial and incredibly accurate.
Thorough data capture of the claims details
In property damage claims, thorough data capture is essential. We know that a picture speaks a thousand words, so what is the value of a 360 capture that can be reviewed by anyone with access? All claims professionals are familiar with the awful feeling when they don’t have the one picture that they need to support a claim-related item. With the tools I mentioned, you can take a screenshot of any area in question that was not previously captured. If an adjuster and a contractor are negotiating a claim, they can both access the scanning resource and discuss claims items with the benefit of a three-dimensional room-by-room review.
Accurate data input of damage elements
In most markets, claims volume is not decreasing. With the strain on resources, it is advantageous to expedite the time on site, which can result in some misses on the capture of claims details. When an adjuster or restorer sits down to write their damage estimate, having the 360-degree capture open at the same time will help to jog their memory as well as provide them with another view of the structural conditions. With a second look at the claims details aiding the composition of an accurate scope of work, all parties can increase their confidence that they are producing a fair and reasonable cost.
Simple Claims Formula
- Thorough Data Capture
- + Accurate Data Input
- = Expedited Agreed-Upon Scope
Expediting claims processing
The goal or standard of claims processing is to create an agreed-upon scope of work to restore the damaged structure to resemble its pre-loss condition with materials of like kind and quality. I believe 360-degree capture tools will continue to improve and provide a valuable resource to all parties of a claim. If we want to arrive at an expedited, agreed-upon scope of work that is as accurate and thorough as possible, everyone in the claims chain will benefit from having access to the same information. Increased capacity while simultaneously elevating data capture and collaboration opportunities would seem to be reason enough for 360-degree capture integration in the claims process. For those who are reviewing the claim remotely, ask whether the company you are working with will share their virtual walkthrough. If there is a claims question, it will be helpful to access one of these resources so that carrier, contractor, and insured (the Restoration Triangle) can virtually access the three-dimensional capture of the affected area. I hope that carriers and contractors will see the value in the utilization and sharing of these resources.
Jon Isaacson, The Intentional Restorer, is a contractor, author and host of The DYOJO Podcast. He recently released So, You Want To Be A Project Manager? written to help restorers develop the mindset and habits for success with project management and the third book in the Be Intentional series. Other books address Insurance Claims Estimating and Workplace Culture. Contact him at iz@thedyojo.com.
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