Have you ever had a burning question about property insurance but didn’t know where to start looking for the answer? Well, here’s a pro tip: This blog has a powerful search function that can save you time and get you to the information you need quickly. We’ve written extensively about property insurance topics over almost two decades. Chances are, the answer to your question is just a few clicks away.

But don’t just take my word for it—let’s look at two recent examples where readers could have found exactly what they needed by using the search function.

What Does “Wear and Tear” Mean?

A public adjuster reader recently reached out to ask what “wear and tear” means in the context of insurance claims. This is a great question because the concept can be confusing, and it plays a critical role in virtually every claim. The concept of wear and tear also raises fundamental all-risk concepts, including the fortuity doctrine.

Had the reader used the search bar searching for wear and tear, they would have found a detailed blog post I wrote that explains it all: The Concept of Fortuity and the Wear and Tear Exclusion. This article dives into how courts interpret wear and tear and why it matters in determining whether a loss is covered or excluded.

Questions About State Farm’s Appraisal Process

After another reader, who is a claims expert, read State Farm Wins Texas Worn-Out Roof Damage Case: Lesson About Texas Hail Damage Cases, Expert Testimony, and the Very Unique Texas Concurrent Causation Rule, he wanted to understand why State Farm has stopped paying appraisal awards and how State Farm’s appraisal review process worked. These are essential questions for anyone dealing with a State Farm appraisal.

Again, a quick search would have led them to the answer: Why Has State Farm Stopped Paying Appraisal Awards. In this post, I discuss State Farm’s recent practices, their interpretation of policy language, and what it means for policyholders trying to resolve claims through appraisal.

How to Use the Search Function Effectively

If you’ve ever wondered about issues like matching roof tiles, California mudslides, or insurable interest, you might already know I’ve highlighted the importance of the search bar in past blog posts. Here are a few examples to revisit:

To use the search bar, simply type in a keyword or phrase—like “wear and tear,” “appraisal,” or “matching shingles”—and hit enter. You’ll instantly get a list of posts related to your topic.

Why the Search Bar Matters

The blog’s search function is not just a tool; it’s a gateway to over 6500 insights and experiences regarding property insurance issues and events. Whether you’re an adjuster, restoration contractor, policyholder, or somebody who stumbled upon this blog, the answers to many pressing questions about property insurance are likely to have been answered or touched on here. Plus, using the search bar ensures you’re staying up-to-date with developing case law and industry trends.

Next time you have a question, try the search bar first. While I do not mind answering questions, using Search on this blog is often like having your own property insurance law consultant on speed dial! Of course, if you can’t find what you’re looking for or need more personalized advice, I’m always here to help.

There is one warning: if you have a case-specific issue with actual money riding on the outcome, always seek a current legal opinion because the law and policy language changes and facts mean a lot when determining how to properly apply facts to the law.

Take a moment now to test the search bar—it’s so easy, even Steve Badger can do it.

Thought For The Day

“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn”
—Benjamin Franklin