East Bay Claims Association News Network - March 2017

March 2017

Since 1993 with East Bay!

Volume XXV Number III

w w w. EastBayAdjusters.org

Celebrating 25 years publishing with East Bay

The Mediation Process

& The California Lemon Law at March 8th EBCA

Secure your spot for the next EBCA luncheon meeting

Wednesday MARCH 8, 2017 as we welcome guest speaker

Mr. Michael Ranahan JAMS at

Zio Fraedo’s

Michael Ranahan, Esq.

611 Gregory Lane Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 - see page 7

February EBCA Features Look At Dealing With Drug Production Claims

- see page 11

2

East Bay Claims Association News Network • March 2017 The East Bay Claims Association is a charitable and educational organization that is dedicated to the betterment of Insurance Claims Professionals, through: continuing education; industry knowledge and contacts; and a strong commitment to integrity and respect in networking.

2017 OFFICERS

Secretary

Vice President

President

Treasurer

Im. Past President

Joe Baughman

Gemma Houser

Michelle Windsor-Baughman

Andrea Latimer

John Ehlert

Paul Davis Restoration

CRDN

Regas Group

JR Structural

(510) 760-7571

(925) 872-6333

(916) 517-9815

(925) 469-8000

(925) 872-2344

michelle.windsor@crdn.com

eastbayclaims@gmail.com

john@jrstructural.com

jbaughman0722@gmail.com

gemmahouser@hotmail.com

2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Amaya Fine

Debra Hall-Jalen

Lynna Harrison

Association News Network, Inc.

Bryan Harrison

KDH Adjusting

The Restoration Clean-Up Co.

Lisa Winn

Premier Construction

Be Seen

Targeted Visibility Online Now you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg for online promotion.

Vertical banners now available on the EBCA web site: www.EastBay Adjusters.org Contact Bryan Harrison - 925-708-5569 Association News Network, Inc. for more information: or go to:

www.AssociationNewsNetwork.com/rates/websites.html

Association News Network, Inc.

Jennifer Pinney CRDN

Kathleen Taylor Paul Davis Restoration

3

East Bay Claims Association News Network • March 2017

EBCA 2017 Schedule of Upcoming Events MARCH 2017

VOLUME XXV . NUMBER III

EBCA Mission Statement:

The East Bay Claims Association is a charitable and educational organization that is dedicated to the betterment of Insurance Claims Professionals, through: continuing education; industry knowledge and contacts; and a strong commitment to integrity and respect in networking.

In order to accomplish this mission, the Association provides a forum and network for insurance claims professionals to meet and share information. This forum and fundraising events held by the group also help to connect insurance claims professionals in local communities and expands public awareness of the work performed by insurance claims professionals.

Luncheon Meetings -

Association meetings held at: Zio Fraedo’s Restaurant 611 Gregory Lane Pleasant Hill, CA

2nd Wednesdays of most months:

• MARCH 8, 2017

EBCA - luncheon meeting Mr. Michael Ranahan, JAMS Mediation Process and The California Lemon Law

-see page 7

• APRIL 12, 2017

EBCA - luncheon meeting Detectives John P. Lee and Marty Dito, California Department of Insurance Fraud Investigation & Obligations of the Insurance Companies when fraud arises

• MAY 10, 2017

EBCA - luncheon meeting Linda Wendall Hsu, Selman Breitman Bad Faith

• JUNE 14, 2017

EBCA - luncheon meeting Jane Massengil, Licensed Certified Social Worker How to Work with Difficult Employers, Employees, Neighbors

• JULY 21, 2017

No luncheon 16th annual EBCA Golf Tournament - Eagle Vines, Napa

• AUGUST 9, 2017

EBCA - luncheon meeting Red Cross rep tentative

• SEPTEMBER 13-15, 2017 Novato

415/493-2211

No EBCA luncheon meeting 24th Annual Claims Conference or Northern California

Napa County/Vallejo/Benicia

• OCTOBER 11, 2017

Contra Costa/Santa Clara/Sonoma

• NOVEMBER 9, 2017

800/648-1608 800/480-TIDY

Oakland/Alameda 510/351-0581

Livermore/Hayward 925/960-1377

Fire • Water • Smoke • Odor • Mold • Trauma • Vandalism Residential • Commercial

www.servicemasterclean.com

EBCA - luncheon meeting - speaker tba No EBCA - luncheon meeting 2nd annual EBCA Bowling Tournament

• DECEMBER 13, 2017

EBCA - holiday luncheon meeting Charitable reps

4

East Bay Claims Association News Network • March 2017 People On The Move is produced as a service to the Property & Casualty Insurance Claims Community. For more, call 209-229-8240 or email bryan@associationnewsnetwork.com

Unified Investigations & Sciences Acquires ARCCA Opens New Northern California Office OConnor Engineering and Announces Staff Additions SACRAMENTO, Calif., – Unified Investigations & Sciences, Inc.—a subsidiary of Sedgwick Claims Management Services, Inc., and national provider of multidisciplinary engineering and forensic investigation services to insurance carriers, corporations Terri & Michael OConnor and public entities—is pleased to announce that it has acquired OConnor Engineering, Inc., a regional provider of forensic engineering and investigation services to the construction claims, products liability, and property and casualty industries in the western United States.

As part of the transaction, OConnor’s team of engineers, investigators, draftsmen and construction professionals—who bring specialized expertise in forensic engineering investigations related to fires and explosions, mechanical and electrical failures, construction claims and reconstruction—have joined the Unified organization.

Michael OConnor, the firm’s president and chief engineer, has assumed the role of senior forensic engineer and team lead of Unified’s service center in Sacramento, California; Terri OConnor, managing shareholder of OConnor, has been appointed district manager of the Sacramento service center.

“This acquisition strengthens Unified’s position as a leading national provider of forensic engineering and fire investigation services,” said Unified President Steve Powell. “We are excited to have OConnor’s entire team of engineers and forensics experts join our growing organization. OConnor’s reputation in California and the western United States is exceptional, and their talents, particularly in the area of turnkey capabilities in the construction claims arena, present limitless opportunities to Unified and our clients.”

“We are thrilled to join Unified and the Sedgwick family,” Terri OConnor said. “Combining our engineering and investigative services puts us in the pole position to serve a multitude of clients in risk assessment, post-loss investigations and reconstruction. This is an exciting time to become a part of Unified.”

Unified Investigations & Sciences, and Terri and Michael O’Connor, maybe reached at: (916) 640-0640, or www.uis-usa.com. They are located at: 1172 National Dr. Ste 100, Sacramento, CA 95834.

ARCCA is pleased to announce the opening of its latest office in Oakland, California, located at: 1999 Harrison Street, Suite 1800 Oakland, CA 94612 Tel: 510-496-4625 Toll-free: 800-700-4944 The new office opened December 1, 2016, and is fully operational.

“We can help with all phases of your project or case, from initial investigation and evidence preservation to design, testing, expert reports, depositions, exhibit preparation and trial testimony.”

LATEST ADDITIONS TO ARCCA'S TEAM

JAMES J. MASON, PhD, P.E. is a Senior Engineer at ARCCA specializing in mechanical failures. He performs analyses of failed consumer and industrial products/equipment and machinery design/ failure, as well as metallurgical laboratory analyses. He also conducts engineering evaluations and provides analyses and opinions on the fracture and fatigue of metals, plastics and welds.

Dr. Mason has experience with medical James J. Mason, PhD, P.E. devices and routinely conducts investigations of failed consumer medical devices, including fracture/fatigue crack analyses of orthopedic implants and plastics, and the complex interaction of materials with the human body.

He also performs motor vehicle accident reconstructions and conducts passenger/commercial vehicle inspections, as well as site investigations. He is a Licensed Professional Engineer and is accredited in Crash Data Retrieval and Commercial Vehicle Event Data Recorders. continued page 10

5

East Bay Claims Association News Network • March 2017

Warp Speed - Engage!

March 2017 message from 2016-2017 EBCA President, Gemma Houser

This year is flying by! I really cannot believe we are already into March! I can well imagine that with all this rain you guys have all been as busy as we have been. Hopefully

2016-2017 EBCA President Gemma Houser

WATER DAMAGE CLAIMS • Electronic Leak Detection & Repair • Sub-Slab Plumbing • Sewer Line Video Scans • Pools, Spas & Fountains

800-353-LEAK

you are all healthy. I missed the last meeting due to that terrible cold that was going around. I lost my voice, too, so my husband and kids were in heaven.

I hope you all enjoyed the February luncheon. A big thank you to guest speaker, Vinh Pham, from Envirocheck, for presenting on Marijuana Grow Houses and Hash Oil Explosions. I am so sad to have missed it but I was sick and just couldn’t make it.

Our March speaker will be Mike Ranahan from JAMS, speaking on the Mediation Process and The Lemon Law. We look forward to another strong representative turnout.

In April I am so excited that we will have Detectives John Lee and Marty Dito from the California Department of Insurance speaking on “Fraud Investigations & Obligations of the Insurance Company when fraud arises”.

We have some other great speakers and topics planned for this year. A big thank you to Debbie Hall-Jalen for taking the lead on finding such quality folks to address our group. Please do check the website and newsletter for upcoming events.

Make sure you mark your calendars for the 16th annual EBCA Golf Tournament which will be on July 21st back at Eagle Vines in Napa. Amaya Fine and John Elhert will be our new golf committee co-chairs and we are all looking forward to another great day out on the course. If you are interested in sponsoring and/or

playing please reach out to them. These events aren’t possible without your participation.

Our Membership Drive for 2017 is ongoing. Our association depends on our members so please make sure to renew/join now. You can go to our website www. eastbayadjusters.org to become a member or feel free to contact our Membership chair Lynna Harrison or call her at (925) 785-7021 for more information, or use the form on the back page here. I encourage you to bring new people to our meetings, too.

Please do not forget to respond to our Evite or call Andrea Latimer at (408) 829-5807. It’s simple to purchase your lunch now on-line at www.eastbayadjusters.org.

I look forward to seeing you at our next luncheon March 8th. Please don’t forget to pay on-line for your spot.

Respectfully,

Gemma

Gemma Houser 2016-’17 President, EBCA Paul Davis Restoration 510-760-7571 ghouser@pdr-usa.net

www.AmericanLeakDetection.com

Orange County | San Diego | Los Angeles | SF / Bay Area

Michelle Basto, Marketing/Sales Associate 2186 Paragon Drive, San Jose, CA. 95131

Cell 408-921-9490 | Office 408-452-9700 | Fax 408-638-0945 To schedule jobs via email - sjfieldservices@patriotlab.com

6

East Bay Claims Association News Network • March 2017

Fraud Investigation & Obligations of the Insurance Companies when fraud arises at April EBCA Detectives John Lee & Marty Dito California Department of Insurance Fraud Division Make your plans now to join the East Bay Claims Association in welcoming California Department of Insurance Detectives John P. Lee and Marty Dito at the April 12, 2017 luncheon meeting.

The duo plan to address insurance fraud and, specifically, the obligations insurance carriers have when fraudulent claims arise.

John P. Lee has been a Detective for four years with the Benicia Regional office of the California Department of Insurance (CDI). John is currently assigned to a multi-discipline group, working Auto, Workers’ Compensation, Healthcare and Property insurance fraud.

Mr. Lee spent two years on the Healthcare task force, investigating fraud committed by healthcare practitioners and providers. He also worked on the Urban Auto Task Force, investigating auto fraud rings and body shops. Prior to working for CDI, John worked for over 25 years as a Special Agent with the Immigration Service (INS) and for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco,

Complete Rebuild Plans for Insurance Repair Projects

(Architectural, Structural, Title 24, Etc.)

Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigating a range of federal crimes.

John began his career as a police officer with the San Francisco Police Department.

Department of Insurance Detective Marty Dito has been with the California Dept. of Insurance for almost two years.

“I investigate mainly auto, workers’ comp and healthcare fraud,” Dito stated.

Plan Now to attend the next EBCA luncheon meeting

Wednesday,

April 12, 2017 as we welcome guest speaker

Detective John Lee

California Department of Insurance Fraud Division at

Zio Fraedo’s

Prior to the Department of Insurance, Dito was a police officer, with more than 32 years on the force, for the San Francisco Police Department.

611 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

A native San Franciscan, Dito was born, grew up and went to school in San Francisco. He moved to Contra Costa County after getting married.

(suggested $10 donation to the EBCA Charitable Fund)

“I worked both in uniformed patrol and in fraud investigations,” he explained.

Reserve your spot now at: www.

EastBayAdjusters.org or contact EBCA Secretary Andrea Latimer rto reserve a spot.

600 Valley Main Street, Suite K E 3942 Ave., Suite Pleasanton, CA 94566

925.469.8000

www.JRStructural.com

Structural Evaluations & Reports Residential Remodels, Additions, & New Homes

11:15am Check-in Luncheon 12:00 noon - 1:00pm

FREE to 2017 Adjuster Members Adjusters Now Join for FREE $45 Non-Members/Guests or No Reservations

$35 for current paid 2017 Associate Members Purchase your lunch online, at:

www.EastBayAdjusters.org

Otherwise, for payment by cash or check at the door, please make reservations now with

2017 EBCA Secretary, Andrea Latimer: (916) 517-9815 or eastbayclaims@gmail.com

7

East Bay Claims Association News Network • March 2017

Mediation Process & The Lemon Law at March 8 EBCA Join the East Bay Claims Association in welcoming Mediation Specialist from JAMS, Michael D. Ranahan, Esq., as our guest speaker for the March 8, 2017 luncheon meeting.

Michael D. Ranahan, Esq. has over twenty years of experience in a variety of case types, specializing in personal injury and business commercial cases and has handled over a thousand cases to conclusion.

Michael Ranahan, Esq.

“Michael keeps clients comfortable and informed while at the same time pushes the attorneys to take a real look at their own and their opponent’s cases.

He blends the practical and legal worlds in a way that addresses both the clients and the lawyers concerns, all by getting to the core of the issues…. He’s definitely among the best I’ve ever worked with.”

-Prominent Northern California Law Firm Partner

Mr. Ranahan is favored for his ability to build rapport with clients in mediation, earning their confidence, while working with attorneys to address the pivotal issues on both sides of the matter. Mr. Ranahan is also noted for his commitment to matters. When a case is not ready to settle, he stays with it through follow-up until resolution is attained. In arbitration proceedings, he is prepared and pursues additional research when necessary, enabling him to quickly absorb the legal issues and make informed decisions.

The California Lemon Law covers new and used vehicles sold or leased in California that come with the manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty. If the manufacturer or dealer can’t repair a serious warranty defect in your vehicle after a “reasonable” number of repair attempts, the manufacturer must either replace the vehicle, or refund its purchase price (whichever you prefer).

Please purchase your lunch at: www.EastBayAdjusters.org or make a reservation with EBCA Secretary Andrea Latimer: 916-517-9815 or eastbayclaims@gmail.com

Join the EBCA

Wednesday,

March 8, 2017 as we welcome guest speaker

Michael Ranahan, Esq. JAMS at

Zio Fraedo’s 611 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 11:15am Check-in Luncheon 12:00 noon - 1:00pm

FREE to 2017 Adjuster Members Adjusters Now Join for FREE

(suggested $10 donation to the EBCA Charitable Fund) $45 Non-Members/Guests or No Reservations

$35 for current paid 2017 Associate Members Purchase your lunch online, at:

www.EastBayAdjusters.org

Otherwise, for payment by cash or check at the door, please make reservations now with

2017 EBCA Secretary, Andrea Latimer: (916) 517-9815 or eastbayclaims@gmail.com

JOIN EBCA for 2017 NOW eastbayadjusters.org

EBCA Designated Charitable Beneficiaries Include: 3 Bay Area Crisis Nursery 3 Shelter, Inc. - Contra Costa 3 Childrens’ Hospital Oakland 3 Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano Counties 3 Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation

8

East Bay Claims Association News Network • March 2017

Commissioner Jones Wins Major Court Case Against Mercury Challenging Rate Reduction Appellate court affirms Commissioner's authority to prohibit pass thru of brand advertising costs to consumers SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones won another critical legal victory, this one against Mercury Insurance Company and a coalition of insurance industry groups in the California Court of Appeal February 10, 2017.

Mercury and other insurers filed suit against Commissioner Jones to challenge his authority to protect consumers from having to pay millions for an insurance company's "institutional" or "brand" advertising expenses. The insurers also argued the commissioner's order

reducing Mercury's homeowners' insurance rates by 5.4 percent, saving consumers $11,745,102, was unconstitutional. The California Court of Appeal rejected the insurers' challenge and ruled in favor of Commissioner Jones on both issues. This is the third of three major legal victories won recently by Commissioner Jones, in which courts affirmed his right to protect consumers.

Insurers spend millions of dollars on advertising their brands including purchasing naming rights for sports stadiums and sporting

www.pwsei.com

event sponsorships. Commissioner Jones prohibited Mercury from passing on $2,806,152 in brand advertising costs to consumers because the advertising did not give them meaningful information about the insurance products sold by the insurer. The court upheld the commissioner's decision to prohibit insurers from passing along to consumers the cost of brand advertising, including advertising at sporting events and venue sponsorships.

"Insurers spend millions of dollars on brand advertising which provides zero benefit to consumers, including paying tens of millions for stadium and arena naming rights and sponsorships of tournaments and other sporting events,' said Jones. "The appellate court rejected the insurers' legal challenge and affirmed my authority to stop insurers from passing along to consumers brand advertising costs, such as expenses for sports stadium naming rights, sponsoring sporting events, or advertising the name of the insurance companies on a blimp."

The insurance companies also attempted to undermine the commissioner's well-established authority to protect consumers from excessive rates, claiming the commissioner's order to reduce Mercury's homeowners' rates was unconstitutional. The court rejected the insurers' argument and upheld the commissioner's order to reduce Mercury's homeowner rates by 5.4 percent, which saved consumers $11,745,102.

"The insurance companies argued they have a constitutional right to a specific profit of their own choosing-the appellate court rejected that argument," added Jones. "The court held that I lawfully exercised the authority given to me by Proposition 103 to reject excessive rates.

This decision is the third major legal victory this year in which an appellate court has upheld the Insurance Commissioner's authority to protect consumers and rejected insurance company lawsuits."

Mercury v. Jones ruling Consumer Watchdog, a consumer advocacy organization, intervened and participated in the negotiations led by the Department of Insurance with Mercury.

Based upon Mercury's proposal to charge brand advertising to consumers, and its desired profit, Mercury had applied for a 3.9 percent rate increase, which would have raised consumers' rates by $8,418,455. Instead the Commissioner ordered their rates reduced by 5.4 percent.

This is the third major case this year in which an appellate court decided for Commissioner Jones against insurers challenging his authority. The Commissioner also won ACIC v. Jones and ACLHIC v. Jones.

9

East Bay Claims Association News Network • March 2017

East Bay Claims AssociationNewsNetwork Services Directory

Paid Sponsorship listings directory - for info on being included, call 925-785-7021, or email: lynna@AssociationNewsNetwork.com

CONTRACTORS-ASBESTOS/LEAD/MOLD REMEDIATION

ALLIANCE ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP - Ed Work 4950 Fulton Drive, Suite E www.alliance-enviro.com • (707) 419-7638 Fairfield, CA 94534 info@alliance-enviro.com AMERICAN TECHNOLOGIES, INC. - Kyle Pickett 30911 Wiegman Road kpickett@amer-tech.com • (510) 429-5000 Hayward, CA 94544 Fax (510) 429-5010 JM ENVIRONMENTAL, INC. - John Moore & the JM Team PO Box 2189 www.jmenvironmental.net • (916) 726-0304 Granite Bay, CA 95746-2189 Fax (916) 726-0340 P.W. STEPHENS ENVIRONMENTAL, INC. - Steve MacFarlane/Jackie Mezeul 4047 Clipper Court www.pwstephensinc.com • (510) 651-9506 Fremont, CA 94538 Fax (510) 651-7702

CONTRACTORS - ELECTRICAL

TUCKNOTT ELECTRIC CO. - Robert A. Tucknott, CFLC Forensic Electrical Expert bob@tucknott.com • (925) 931-0800

www.Tucknott.com • Fax (925) 931-0817

CONTRACTORS - GENERAL/RESTORATION

BELFOR USA - Dave Warters/Lisa Schwichtenberg 2365 Industrial Pkwy West (888) 543-3473 • Fax (510) 887-9110 Hayward, CA 94545 david.warters@us.belfor.com CHAD SMITH CONSTRUCTION - Chad Smith 1820 Galindo St. Suite 230 www.chadsmithconstruction.com • (925) 566-8755 Concord, CA 94524 chad@chadsmithconstruction.com • Fax: (925) 566-8757 COAST CONSTRUCTION - Steve Mink/Jodi DeVillier 718 Kennedy St www.CoastConstruction.net • (510) 533-7168 Oakland, CA 94606 24 Hr Em: (510) 773-6379 MARK SCOTT CONSTRUCTION, INC. - Troy Brincat Residential & Commercial msconstruction.com • Pl. Hill: (925) 944-0502 24 Hour Em Service Fairfield: (707) 804-8880 • Stockton: (209) 982-0502 WINGARD CONSTRUCTION - Bror Wingard 24 Hr. Em (925) 383-5618 One-Call Contractor for all your Corp. office: (925) 689-9322 reconstruction needs email@wingardconstruction.com • Lodi: (209) 368-2464

CONTRACTORS - MICROBIAL REMEDIATION

ALLIANCE ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP - Ed Work 4950 Fulton Drive, Suite E www.alliance-enviro.com • (707) 419-7638 Fairfield, CA 94534 info@alliance-enviro.com AMERICAN TECHNOLOGIES, INC. - Kyle Pickett 30911 Wiegman Road kpickett@amer-tech.com • (510) 429-5000 Hayward, CA 94544 Fax (510) 429-5010 BELFOR USA - Dave Warters/Lisa Schwichtenberg 2365 Industrial Pkwy West (888) 543-3473 • Fax (510) 887-9110 Hayward, CA 94545 david.warters@us.belfor.com P.W. STEPHENS ENVIRONMENTAL, INC. - Steve MacFarlane 4047 Clipper Court www.pwstephensinc.com • (510) 651-9506 Fremont, CA 94538 Fax (510) 651-7702

ELECTRONICS RESTORATION

ERS - ELECTRONICS RESTORATION SERVICE - Andrew Titley 8698 Thornton Ave. www.ers-us.com • (510) 775-1959 Newark, CA 94560 andrew.titley@ers-us.com

ENGINEERS - FORENSIC

I-ENG-A® OF CENTRAL CALIFORNIA A Division of Pauli Engineering, Inc www.pauliengineering.com • (559) 237-4408 Cause & Origin Investigations, Plans for building reconstruction.

ENGINEERS - STRUCTURAL

JR STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING, INC. - John Ehlert 3942 Valley Ave., Suite K www.JRStructural.com • (925) 469-8000 Pleasanton, CA 94566 john@jrstructural.com

ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING & CONSULTING

PATRIOT ENVIRONMENTAL LABORATORY SERVICES, INC. - Michelle Basto 2186 Paragon Drive mbasto@patriotlab.com • Office (408) 452-9700 San Jose, CA 95131 www.PatriotLab.com • Cell (408) 921-9490

FIRE INVESTIGATORS

FIRE CAUSE ANALYSIS - Ulises Castellon, CPCU Serving Clients (800) 726-5939 • Fax: (510) 649-3099 Nationwide! inquiry@fcafire.com

LEAK DETECTION/PLUMBING

AMERICAN LEAK DETECTION - Hillel Salomon P.O. Box 438 (800) 353-LEAK (5325) Berkeley, CA 94701 www.AmericanLeakDetection.com BULL’S EYE LEAK DETECTION - Daniel Spatz P. O. Box 73114 www.BullsEyeLeak.com • (916) 760-8944 Davis, CA 95614 office@bullseyeleak.com • Fax (916) 760-8970

OVERSPRAY REMOVAL

NATIONWIDE OVERSPRAY - Eric Gerencser Benicia, California

www.overspray.net • (925) 408-5909 Safe Overspray Removal eric@overspray.net • (800) 345-1269

PROPERTY RESTORATION - CLOTHING SPECIALISTS

BRIGHT LEAF CLEANERS - Liza Wisecarver Servicing all BrightleafCleaners.com • cell (925) 406-9889 of Northern CA liza@blcleaners.com • office (925) 455-6000 CRDN - Steve Depper/Michelle Windsor 2094 Mt. Diablo Blvd.

(877) 939-1588 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 www.crdngba.com FRSTeam - Jim and Courtney Nicholas 3201A Investment Blvd 510-723-1000 Hayward, CA 94545 Natalie Lagorio: nlagorio@frsteam.com

PROPERTY RESTORATION/CONTENTS

AMERICAN TECHNOLOGIES, INC. - Kyle Pickett 30911 Wiegman Road kpickett@amer-tech.com • (510) 429-5000 Hayward, CA 94544 Fax (510) 429-5010 BELFOR USA - Dave Warters/Lisa Schwichtenberg 2365 Industrial Pkwy West (888) 543-3473 • Fax (510) 887-9110 Hayward, CA 94545 david.warters@us.belfor.com MS VITAL RESTORATION, INC. (a division of Mark Scott Construction, Inc.) 2835 Contra Costa Blvd 1-800-944-0502 Pleasant Hill 94523 Info@MSVitalRestoration.com SERVICEMASTER OF LIVERMORE/HAYWARD - Bassam Kneizeh/Kelly Banducci 1001 Shannon Ct. Ste C (925) 960-1377 Livermore, CA 94550 Fax (925) 960-1376 SERVICEMASTER OF NAPA COUNTY, VALLEJO & BENICIA - Eric Larson/Lynn Fuller P. O. Box 6867 smnvb@interx.net • (800) 648-1608 Napa, CA 94581 Fax (707) 257-1608 SERVICEMASTER OF OAKLAND/ALAMEDA - Jean Hughes 14498 Wicks Blvd servicemastereastbay@comcast.net • (510) 351-0581 San Leandro, CA 94577-6712 Fax (510) 351-4704 SERVICEMASTER RESTORATION SERVICES - Robert Scott Serving Contra Costa rscott@sharjo.com • (800) 480-TIDY Santa Clara & Sonoma www.svmcleaning-restoration.com

Thank you to all our paid listing subscribers, and all our publication advertising sponsors. Literally couldn’t do it without you!

Deadline for all Submissions for the next issue is

March 17, 2017

info@AssociationNewsNetwork.com • 925-785-7021

10

East Bay Claims Association News Network • March 2017

continued from page 4

GOLDEN BEAR MULTI-LINES CLAIMS CONSULTANT WANTED Golden Bear Insurance Company in Stockton, California seeks an experienced multi-line claims consultant to adjust primary and excess commercial general liability claims, liquor liability claims, and property claims.

Applicant must have strong organizational and writing skills. He or she must be able to draft statutory communication in a timely manner and evaluate coverage. This position also requires travel on occasion to MSCs and mediations. Professionalism with insureds a must.

• • • • •

Full time Pay commensurate with experience Benefits Experience requirement: Minimum 10 years Educational Requirement: Licensed Adjuster in California or AIC • Computer literate. Exactimate and Excel experience desired, but not required.

Amy Betz

While available for investigating cases and claims nationally, Jim is based in the new Oakland, CA office.

AMY BETZ has joined ARCCA as a Relationship Manager and will be responsible for sales and business development. She previously worked as a Territory Manager for LexisNexis, where she built relationships with internal and external business partners to devise sales strategies.

Amy is also based in the new Oakland, CA office, and you can reach her at 916-663-8342 or at abetz@arcca.com.

You may apply even if your experience is limited to mono-line adjusting if you are willing to train. Direct your resume to Emmaleigh Schoen, Administrative Services Manager at Emmaleigh@goldenbear.com.

CLAIMS INDUSTRY PLACEMENTS Gary E. Mingus, GEM Search Group provides both Temporary, Temp to Hire and Direct Hire placements in the Insurance Industry also, placing Vendors related to the Insurance Industry. Call Gary Mingus 866-935-4426 or email to Gary@GEMSearchgroup.com. Serving the Insurance Industry since 1995.

Submit Your Job Connection ad to:

Choose from Four (5) Monthly Editions - Four Print + Online Edition: Up to 50 words just $45 (just 50¢/word thereafter)

Run Your Ad Network-Wide for a net rate of just $180/mo.

Next Deadline for submissions is March 17, 2017 call 209-229-8240 or email info@AssociationNewsNetwork.com

The East Bay Claims Association News Network© is a production of Association News Network, Inc. Published monthly as a free service to the EBCA with a commitment and dedication to the promotion and betterment of this professional organization. The views and comments expressed within the articles herein do not necessarily reflect the views of A.N.N., Inc. or EBCA. Both the publisher and the association assume no responsibility for any opinions and/or statements offered by contributing authors to the publication. Acceptance of advertising material does not constitute endorsement of the products or services offered. A.N.N., Inc. reserves the right to reject any advertising copy or placement. We encourage industry support of this professional organization - its monthly newsletter publication and web site.

Go to: www.EastBayAdjusters.org Bryan Harrison, Publisher

Bryan@AssociationNewsNetwork.com • 925.708.5569

Lynna Harrison, Customer Serivces Manager

Lynna@AssociationNewsNetwork.com • 925.785.7021 © 1993-2016, all rights reserved • Association News Network, Inc. • www.AssociationNewsNetwork.com 2455 Naglee Rd. #263 . Tracy, CA 95304 • 209.229.8240

East Bay Claims Association News Network • March 2017

Hazards Involving Marijuana Grow Houses & Hash Oil Lab-Related Claims at February EBCA

11

By Lynna Harrison The February 8, 2017 Luncheon Meeting of the EBCA was well attended and a little raucous.

Vinh Pham of EnviroCheck was an excellent speaker, traveling from Southern California to discuss experiences with clean-up and related hazards with marijuana grow houses, hash oil and meth labs.

Marijuana Grow Houses generally have vast numbers of plants, often utilizing unsafe means of electrical connectivity. Mr. Pham explained that a fairly common practice is to bypass PG&E connections, which can leave systems unable to be shut off in case of fire.

He explained that some turn structures into rain forests. The by-products Vinh Pham, of Envirocheck, gave a most enlightening & entertaining presention. of these farming endeavors can cause contamination, such as pesticide residue and water damage.

He noted that, although the laws for marijuana are changing in many states, it is still listed as an illegal drug by Federal Law. “I am going to teach you how to make drugs,” he said, as he delved more into the hash oil and meth production methods.

“Everyday household products are used to make Meth,” he explained. He went on to explain the three most common types of meth production, and the dangers (and advantages) to each.

The highly explosive chemicals give off toxic fumes and impose extreme fire hazard. Any open spark can cause a fire.

“Unless declared safe do not enter a property,” on a meth claims, he warned. “Dealers want to protect their property and set booby traps.”

He posed the question “where in the US do you find the most meth labs?” He showed a map of the United States indicating Indiana took the honors. Everyone expressed surprise.

The 50/50 Raffle was won by our own Publisher Bryan Harrison.

Please join us on March 8, 2017 for the next EBCA luncheon. Guest Speaker will be Michael Ranahan, Esq., from JAMS. Mr. Ranahan’s presentation will be on "The Mediation Process & The Lemon Law.

EBCA Board Member Debbie Hall-Jalen thanked February guest speaker, Vinh Pham, of Envirocheck.

The Finest Name in Safe Overspray Removal

1-800-345-1269

Nationwide Mobile Crews – Immediate Response ISO 9001:2008 Certified

www.nationwideoverspray .com

TO:

First Class Postage

Association News Network, Inc.

2455 Naglee Rd #263 Tracy, CA 95304 Return Service Requested

2017 EBCA Membership Application

Join Now for 2017

Membership Eligibility:

MISSION STATEMENT: The East Bay Claims Association is a charitable and educational organization that is dedicated to the betterment of Insurance Claims Professionals, through: continuing education; industry knowledge and contacts; and a strong commitment to integrity and respect in networking.

In order to accomplish this mission, the Association provides a forum and network for insurance claims professionals to meet and share information. This forum and fundraising events held by the group also help to connect insurance claims professionals in local communities and expands public awareness of the work performed by insurance claims professionals.

JOIN NOW

Membership in East Bay Claims Association shall be open to the following categories: Insurance Company Claims Adjusters, Independent Claims Adjusters, Insurance Defense Attorneys, and Associate members.

Associate Members include claims industry service providers. The Board of Directors shall review each membership application received for approval, insuring the above criteria have been met. East Bay Claims Association does not consider public adjusters and plaintiffs attorneys to be claims service providers and therefore they do not meet the aforementioned eligibility criteria.

Primary Member/Contact Name:____________________________________________________ Company:_____________________________________________________________________ Address:______________________________________________________________________ City/St/Zip:_____________________________________________________________________ Telephone:_____________________________________________________________________ Email:_________________________________________________________________________

for 2017

Adjusters Join FREE! Please complete and submit form for our records. Donation to the EBCA Charitable Fund appreciated but not mandatory to join.

o Individual Membership

Terms of Eligibility for Membership - Section 2.03 of EBCA Bylaws

$54.95 per person

o Corporate Membership

(up to 3 persons) - $109.95

Please include your Email address. You will receive meeting E-vite notices, member-only events announcements, CCNC updates, and the monthly Association News Network E-News edition. Our commitment is to maintain the security of your information.

Additional Corp Member Name: ____________________________________________________ Email:_________________________________________________________________________ Third Corp Member Name: ________________________________________________________ Email:_________________________________________________________________________ As many as three (3) people from the same business entity may join together with a Corporate Membership. Each will receive their own free copy of the monthly East Bay Claims Association News Network publication, as well as all other membership benefits.

For more than three (3) members, multiple “corporate memberships” may be purchased at the same Early-Bird discounted rate of $90.ºº each (regularly $110ºº).

Your payment by credit card is preferred. Please go to: www.EastBayAdjusters.org For payment by check, please make your check(s) payable to East Bay Claims Association, and submit by mail to:

Total Amount Enclosed: $ ________

EBCA Membership

25A Crescent Drive, #266, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 or just bring it with you to a luncheon.

To Pay by Credit Card, go to: www.EastBayAdjusters.org

Residential & Commercial Reconstruction 24 hour emergency service

COMMERICAL & RESIDENTIAL

Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration • Water Mitigation

• HazMat

• Mold Remediation • Sewage & Sanitizing • Moving & Storage

• Lead Abatement

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

1.800.944.0502

MARK SCOTT

construction, inc.

Lic. #682814

Pleasant Hill - Main t: 925-944-0502 Stockton t: 209-982-0502 Fairfield t: 707-864-8880 msconstruction.com