Sacramento Claims Association News Network - February 2014

Sacramento Claims A ssociation N ews N et work

Since 1994 with SCA

Volume XX • Number II

www.SacramentoClaims.org

Wave Of Quality SCA Programs in 2014 Use of Social Media In Claims Investigations Brad Balentine - David Morse & Associates

Thursday, February 13, 2014 Luncheon Meeting page 8

Fair Claims Settlement Practices Act Regulations ReCertification Blane Smith - Farmer Smith & Lane

Thursday, March 13, 2014 Luncheon Meeting page 9

White Waiver First Party Bad Faith Remedy?

Robin L. Singer - Morris Polich & Purdy

Thursday, April 10, 2014 Luncheon Meeting page 10

Coming In the March Issue: Photo Highlights from the 2014 SCA Winter Gala

2

Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

Sacramento Claims Association Your 2014 SCA Executive Staff

President

Vice President

Bob Battazzato

Steve Moore

Cleanrite Buildrite bobb@crbr.com Educational Committee

Barrish Pelham & Associates smoore@barrish.com Education Committee

Secretary Treasurer

Jim McCurley

Cathrin Nevin

RGL Forensic Accountants jmccurley@us.rgl.com

Carl Warren & Company cnevin@carlwarren.com Giving/Charitable Committee

And Your 2014 SCA Board of Directors Jack Corry

Water, Smoke & Mold Removal

Bryan Harrison

Association News Network, Inc. Communications Committee

Art Coussoulis

AAA Retired Social Com/Production Coor.

John Morgan

Guide One Insurance Giving Committee

Tami Umland

Linda Hansen

Farmers Insurance Social Committee

Artland Construction Communications Committee

April Wilkinson

David Morse & Associates Communications Committee

Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

3

Look What We are Doing at the SCA for 2014….

February Message from 2013-’14 SCA President Bob Battazzato

2013-’14 SCA President Bob Battezzato

Mold, Asbestos & Lead Consulting Clandestine Lab Investigations Chris Hintz, CAC REA, CIE

209-366-3684

Fax: 866-612-8294 sierraec@comcast.net

www.SierraEnviro.com

2014 is off and running….how are you all doing on your New Year Resolutions? Here is one that I know you all can keep and will LOVE. Get Involved with your Sacramento Claims Association!

We are off to a great start with our first meeting in the books. It was a wonderful turn-out, with many new faces, for “Fire Proofing Your Claim – Don’t Get Burned!” Our guest speakers, Ulises Castellon and Robin Singer, were informative and very engaging. The duo shared valuable information and details on the perils of fire, and the severity that is associated with fire, as well as the huge exposure it can, and often does, represent to insurers. We were treated to videos on real life jobs and fires that Ulises and Robin have worked on.

We are now getting ready to offer the following educational luncheons for the first half of 2014: - Social Media Investigations - Fair Claims Settlement Practices Recertification - “White Waiver” defining responsibilities Additionally we have several specific educational topics we are working to bring to our Members as the year progresses. So keep connected to YOUR SCA, at: www.sacramentoclaims.org.

We will continue to list out the calendar as it unfolds.

We will be having various Social Events throughout the year El Dorado and we all know how great the annual Golf Tournament is for Restoration the SCA. Disaster Repair We have a new aspect of the SCA this year called “The & Construction Street Team”. Come learn about this group and how they Your Professionals 24/7 are driving relationships for the SCA. To get connected, 530-626-1676 reach out to Tami Umland; 916-834-3047 tami.umland@ barbarap@eldoradorestoration.com artlandconstruction.com or connect with any of the current Fax 530-626-8129 Contractor License #439857 SCA Board Members and they will tell you all about it.

PO Box 3070 • Diamond Springs, CA 95619

Lic 699807

Water, Fire, & Storm Damage 916-455-1782 fax 916-455-1783 3770 West Pacific Avenue • Sacramento, CA 95820

continue page 15

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Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

Sacramento Claims

Recent SCA Association News Network Charitable Beneficiaries www.SacramentoClaims.org February 2014 • Volume XX • Number II include:

Inside this issue...

2 3 5 6 7 8 9 11 13 14 15 16

Your 2014 SCA Executive Staff & Board of Directors

CSUSacramento insurance program

February Message from 2013-’14 SCA President Bob Battazzato SCA 2014 Calendar of Events & and Social Media links SCA Golf Tournament “Eagle Sponsorship” Now Open for Bidding Castellon & Singer team-up for “Fire-Proofing Your Claim” at January SCA Use Of Social Media in Claims Investigations at February 13, 2014 SCA

hope & opportunity for at-risk women with children

“White Waiver - First Party Bad Faith Remedy?” at March 13, 2014 SCA Sacramento Claims Association News Network Service Directory Sponsors People On The Move Association News Network Job Connection News From The DOI Sacramento Blue Star Moms

2014 SCA Street Team Announced!

SCA 2014 Membership - Join or Renew NOW for 2014

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5

Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

Like us on Facebook: Sacramento Claims Association

Follow us on Twitter:

@sacclaimsassn

New IA/TPA Luncheon Rate Announced!

As of the February 13, 2014 luncheon meeting, Independent Insurance Adjusters (IAs) and Third Party Administrators (TPAs) may attend at the discounted rate of just $20 per person.

Carrier Adjuster attendance at regular SCA Luncheon Meetings continues to be provided at no cost, or by donation to the SCA Charitable Fund.

Updates at: www.SacramentoClaims.org

Calendar of Events

Thursday, February 13, 2014 Luncheon Meeting

Social Media Investigations

Brad Balentine - David Morse & Associates

Thursday, March 13, 2014 Luncheon Meeting

Fair Claims Settlement Practices Act ReCertification Blane Smith - Farmer Smith & Lane

Thursday, April 10, 2014 Luncheon Meeting

and LinkedIn: Sacramento Claims Association

White Waiver

Robin L. Singer - Morris Polich & Purdy Updates at: www.SacramentoClaims.org

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Thursday, May 8, 2014 Luncheon Meeting - Topic/Speaker tba

Friday, June 6, 2014

Annual SCA Golf Tournament - Lincoln Hills Golf Course

Thursday, July 10, 2014 Luncheon Meeting - Topic/Speaker tba

Tuesday & Wed., Sept 19-20, 2014 21st Annual Claims Conference of N. California “Hitting A Home Run! Covering ALL The Bases” www.ClaimsConference.org

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Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

2014 Sacramento Claims Golf Tournament Eagle Sponsorship To Be Announced at March 13, 2014 SCA Luncheon Lincoln Hills Orchard Golf Course Friday, June 6th 2014

Eagle Sponsorship available by way of silent bid!

Minimum bid is $2000 Payment is not required for bid; You do not need to be present at the March 13th event.

(Bid needs to be increments of $25)

With the Eagle Sponsorship, you receive the following: 4 18th Hole - Tee Box Sponsorship 4 Golf cart for use all day 4 Large banner w/Co. name & logo at registration 4 Foursome for Tourney 4 Recognition and plaque at dinner reception 4 Recognition in Sac Claims Newsletter & all print (including website) 4 4 Dinner reception tickets

Bid winner will be announced at the March 13th SCA Luncheon Meeting.

Send your bid by email to Cata Doughri at cata@barrish.com no later than March 12th.

Contact Cata with any questions 916-224-0647.

Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

Castellon & Singer Team-Up for Look at “Fire Proofing Your Claim” at January 9, 2014 SCA

7

By Lynna Harrison, Association News Network, Inc. Photos by Lynna Harrison "Fire Proofing Your Claim-Don't get Burned" was the topic kickin-off the new year at the January 9, 2014 Sacramento Claims Luncheon.

Ulises Castellon, CPCU, Director of Operations at Fire Cause Analysis and Robin Singer of Morris, Polich & Purdy LLP gave a great "tag team" speech together for the crowd at the Lions Gate Restaurant.

They illustrated that using a Professional Investigator will save you time and money anytime you have a questionable fire claim by getting experts to the scene right away. They gave great examples showing how they proved Arson in a complicated case.

Ulises said "get your arms around the claim early; do it right.

Gather data.”

Their demonstrative case study included signs of forced entry and a ransacked office, with broken glass left on top of papers.

Evidence that Horse Linament was dripped across room was also discovered. Further investigation determined that the insured had raised coverage limits by 70% just six days before fire. While irrelevant as far as forensic evidence, such an act does raise questions.

The duo emphasized the importance of making sure everyone involved maintains Integrity We’re There of the scene.

When You Need Us! The carrier denied the claim and the insured then sued for bad faith. The court held that the Carrier acted reasonably.

A Criminal Case followed, but was dismissed at Prelim. Still, reported the duo, the insured lost everything.

January SCA guest speakers Robin L. Singer and Ulises Castellon

SCA member, Jim Kreuger, with President Bob Battezzato and board member Linda Klaas.

Congratulations to January 50/50 Raffle winner Barbara Larson, of Haag Engineering.

2014 SCA Board Members welcomed the January meeting crowd.

800-500-4310 Water, Sewage & Mold Cleanup Fire & Smoke Restoration Asbestos Contents Decontamination Area Rug & Contents Restoration Specialized Blasting Services

www.thecleanupco.com

4 Forensic Engineering:

Electrical, Mechanical, Civil & Structural

4 Construction Defect Investigation

4Damage Assessment/Cost Consulting 4Design Services, CAD Drafting 4Fire Investigations (PI #26808)

916.640.0640 www.OConnor-Engineering.com 1172 National Drive Suite 100 • Sacramento, CA 95834

8

Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

The Role & Practice of

Social Media In Claims Investigations Thursday,

February 13, 2014

The presentation, “The Role & Practice of Social Media Investigations in Claims Handling” utilizes actual case studies of social media investigations which have affected claims outcomes.

The procedures of conducting social media investigations is discussed, including the legal parameters of this activity. It analyzes the role of an independent investigator to collect and preserve evidence for potential litigation and testimony.

It is part of an insurance claims professional’s responsibility to be familiar with resources and procedures which can provide information relevant to a claims investigation, and due to the evolving nature of social media investigations, knowledge of this investigative procedure will help the an insurance claims professional to meet their contractual responsibilities to their customers.

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This seminar is designed to enlighten claims professionals to provide some additional tools and perspective to the options available to them to obtain evidence in a professional and legal manner from the Internet and Social Media outlets, to assist in claims evaluations based on all available information.

11:30 a.m. check-in • Noon - 1p.m. Luncheon Contact: SCA Board Member April Wilkinson: awilkinson@davidmorse.com or 916-410-0865

LIONS GATE HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER At McClellan Park

3410 Westover Street, Sacramento, CA 95652

Brad Balentine is Director of the Special Investigations Unit for David Morse & Associates, a multi-state claims services company headquartered in California.

He has over 20 years experience as a fraud investigator and manager. Mr. Balentine is a licensed private investigator in California and Florida, and certified as a continuing education instructor.

He has provided testimony as an expert witness, and has authored several published articles on the subject of insurance fraud.

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9

Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

Re-Certification Presentation On The

CDI Fair Claims Settlement Practices Act Regulations at March 13 SCA Luncheon Meeting

The California Department of Insurance mandates that all insurance adjusters must re-certify themselves as having read and acknowledge to understand the “Fair Claims Settlement Practices Act” regulations annually.

Blane Smith is a partner at the law firm of Farmer Smith & Lane, LLP. He holds a B.A., Western Washington University, 1977, and his J.D. from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, 1980.

Mr. Smith began the practice of law in 1980 and has devoted his career to the specialty of insurance law. His work includes consultation and litigation related to the duties of insurers to their insureds and bad faith claims. After eight years as a partner in the firm of Thompson Heller, he became a partner in Farmer Murphy Smith & Alliston in 1996 and founded Farmer Smith & Lane, LLP along with Craig Farmer and David Lane in 2007.

The importance of knowing and following these regulations cannot be overstated. Multi-million dollar penalties and fines have been levied on carriers for infractions.

Join the SCA in welcoming guest speaker Mr. Blane Smith, of Farmer Smith & Lane, LLP, as we explore the California Fair Claims Settlement Practices Act Regulations at the March 13, 2014 luncheon meeting.

Thursday,

March 13, 2014 11:30 a.m. check-in • Noon - 1p.m. Luncheon

New! Ind. Insurance Adjusters & TPAs just $20

$32 Associate Members w/Reservations • $45 guests Free to carrier personnel (donations to the SCA Charitable Fund in lieu of fee welcomed) Secure your spot at: www.SacramentoClaims.org For payment by cash or check at the door, please make your reservation now with SCA Board Member

To be held back at the Lionsgate Conference Center, this meeting will provide claims personnel with needed certification on the regs.

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LIONS GATE HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER At McClellan Park

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10

White Waiver

Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

First Party Bad Faith Remedy?

Asp e c ts O f A

r e v i a W e t i h W : Topics To Include

s 3 The Old Day White Waivers 3 Case-Basis of Offer?

3 What’s a 998 cerns 3 Carrier Con lity 3 Current Rea White Waiver 3 Purpose of a rt Application?

3 Federal Cou siderations 3 Strategic Con ment te Waiver Agree hi W e pl m Sa

3

Thursday, April 10, 2014 White Waiver: A legal device used to prevent negotiations of a first party claim from being admitted at trial. Are you making the most of this important tool?

Robin Singer is a Senior Associate at the San Francisco office of Morris, Polich & Purdy, LLP. His practice focuses on Property Insurance Law. He is an expert in first party Property Coverages, as well as Litigation/Bad Faith. Robin has 20 years experience within the insurance industry as a claims property manager. His experience also includes providing quality training to insurance carrier property staff on the basics of property coverage analysis, litigation management, bad faith and more.

Thursday,

April 10, 2014 Robin L. Singer

Morris Polich & Purdy LLP

11:30 a.m. check-in • Noon - 1p.m. Luncheon

New! Ind. Insurance Adjusters & TPAs just $20

$32 Associate Members w/Reservations • $45 guests Free to carrier personnel (donations to the SCA Charitable Fund in lieu of fee welcomed) Secure your spot at: www.SacramentoClaims.org For payment by cash or check at the door, please make your reservation now with SCA Board Member

April Wilkinson:

awilkinson@davidmorse.com or 916-410-0865

LIONS GATE HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER At McClellan Park

3410 Westover Street, Sacramento, CA 95652

JOIN SCA For 2014!

SacramentoClaims.org

11

Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

Sacramento Claims Association News Network Services Directory Thanks to all our paid directory listing sponsors

AccIDENT RECONSTRUCTIONists

Boster, Kobayashi & Associates - Michael Kreutzelman Serving the United States 24 hr. (925) 963-9653 • (925) 447-6495 and Overseas Fax (925) 447-6589

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Ronald A. Arendt, Esq. - a professional law corporation 2300 Bell Executive Ln rarendt@arentadr.com • (916) 925-1151 Sacramento, CA 95825 www.arendtadr.com • Fax (916) 929-5137 Ernest A. Long ADR - Ernie Long 2630 J Street 916-442-6739 • Fax 916-4424107 elong@ernestalongadr.com Sacramento CA 95816

attorneys - defense

nageley, meredith & Miller, Inc. - Greg Meredith/Jim Keowen 8801 Folsom Boulevard Suite 172 (916) 386-8282 • Fax (916) 386-8952 Sacramento, CA 95826 GMeredith@NMLawFirm.com Porter Scott - Lindsay A. Goulding 350 University Avenue, Suite 200 www.porterscott.com • 916.929.1481 ext. 470 Sacramento, CA 95825 lgoulding@porterscott.com • Fax: (916) 927-3706

Contractors-Asbestos/Lead/Mold Remediation

A-1 Remediation - David Brooks 4270 Pell Drive dave@a1remediation.com • (916) 568-7624 Sacramento, CA 95838 www.A1remediation.com • Fax (916) 568-7639 American Technologies, Inc. - Barry Metcalf/George Platt 8440 Elder Creek Road bmetcalf@amer-tech.com • (916) 388-2440 Sacramento, CA 95828 Fax (916) 388-2445 Cleanrite Buildrite Wind, Water, Fire, Mold - 24 Hours (800) 870-0030 Sacramento, Yuba City, Chico & Redding www.CRBR.com 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. - Jason Kettlehut 3278 Swetzer Road www.pwstephensinc.com • (916) 790-4119 Loomis, CA 95650 jasonk@pwsei.com Paul Davis Restoration of Greater Sacramento 3225 Monier Circle, Suite 200 800-954-FIRE • (916) 254-5115 Rancho Cordova, CA 95742 Fax (916) 254-5963 THE RESTORATION CLEANUP COMPANY Water, Smoke & Mold Damage Specialists 800-500-4310 Sewage Decontamination www.thecleanupco.com restoration management Company Water, Smoke & Environmental Specialists 1800 Enterprise Blvd.

(800) 400-5058 West Sacramento, CA 95691 tumland@rmc.com Select Environmental – Blake Roath Mold, Asbestos, Lead & General Demolition 5037 College Oak Drive, Suite C selectenviro@gmail.com (916) 256-3899 Sacramento, CA 95841 www.selectenvironmental.org Fax (916) 486-1357

Contractors - Electrical

Tucknott Electric Co. - Robert A. Tucknott 6850 Regional St. Suite 110 tucknottel@aol.com • (925) 931-0800 Dublin, CA 94568 www.Tucknott.com • Fax (925) 931-0817

Contractors - general/restoration

AAA Flood & Fire - Emergency Services - Water, Fire, Smoke, Mold 186 Barnard Ave

www.AAAFloodAndFire.com • SJ Office: (408)270-9111 San Jose, CA 95125 Dry1Out@gmail.com • SSF Office 1(888)Dry1Out(379-1688) Belfor USA - Grant Cody 3132 Dwight Rd Ste 300 (916) 399-1865 • Fax (916) 399-9388 Elk Grove, CA 95758 grant.cody@us.belfor.com

Contractors - general/restoration - continued

Cleanrite Buildrite Wind, Water, Fire, Mold - 24 Hours (800) 870-0030 Sacramento, Yuba City, Chico & Redding www.CRBR.com DH Construction - Ken Daley/Amber Pastor 4324 Orange Grove Ave. www.DHfirerestoration.com • (916) 481-3297 ken@dhfirerestoration.com Sacramento, CA 95841 Fite & Company Construction - Jeff Black 9857 Horn Rd jblack@fiteproperties.com • (916) 366-5695 Fax (916) 361-9043 Sacramento, CA 95827 LAWTON CONSTRUCTION - Brett Lawton P. O. Box 6026 www.LawtonConstruction.com • (916) 434-9280 Auburn, CA 95604 Fax (916) 434-2590 Mark Scott Construction, Inc. - Andrew Wilson Residential & Commercial msconstruction.com • Pl. Hill: (925) 944-0502 24 Hour Em Service Fairfield: (707) 804-8880 • Stockton: (209) 982-0502 Paul Davis Restoration of Greater Sacramento 3225 Monier Circle, Suite 200 800-954-FIRE • (916) 254-5115 Fax (916) 254-5963 Rancho Cordova, CA 95742 Probilt Construction - Roger Kolb 3770 West Pacific Ave. rogerkolb57@gmail.com • (916) 455-1782 Sacramento, CA 95820 Fax (916) 455-1783 Wingard Construction - Nichole Norton 24 Hr. Em (800) 232-7150 Lodi office: (209) 368-2464 One-Call Contractor for all your reconstruction needs email@wingardconstruction.com • Concord: (925) 689-9322 Zebra Restoration - Michael “ Z” Zboralske/Debbie Kutch 11365 Sunrise Park Dr. Ste 200 z@zebrarestoration.com • (916) 635-8571 Rancho Cordova, CA 95742 Debbie@zebrarestoration.com • Fax (916) 635-8573

Contractors - Landscape

Aronson Landscape - Levi Aronson Serving The Greater www.AronsonLandscape.com • (916) 243-9350 Sacramento Area levi@aronsonlandscape.com

Contractors - Microbial remediation

American Technologies, Inc. - Barry Metcalf/George Platt 8440 Elder Creek Road bmetcalf@amer-tech.com • (916) 388-2440 Sacramento, CA 95828 Fax (916) 388-2445 Belfor USA - Grant Cody 3132 Dwight Rd Ste 300 (916) 399-1865 • Fax (916) 399-9388 Elk Grove, CA 95758 grant.cody@us.belfor.com Cleanrite Buildrite Wind, Water, Fire, Mold - 24 Hours (800) 870-0030 Sacramento, Yuba City, Chico & Redding www.CRBR.com P.W. Stephens Environmental, inc. - Jason Kettlehut 3278 Swetzer Road www.pwstephensinc.com • (916) 790-4119 jasonk@pwsei.com Loomis, CA 95650 restoration management Company Water, Smoke & Environmental Specialists 1800 Enterprise Blvd.

(800) 400-5058 tumland@rmc.com West Sacramento, CA 95691 Zebra Restoration - Michael “ Z” Zboralske/Debbie Kutch 11365 Sunrise Park Dr. Ste 200 z@zebrarestoration.com • (916) 635-8571 Rancho Cordova, CA 95742 Debbie@zebrarestoration.com • Fax (916) 635-8573

Crime Scene/Fatality Clean-Up Cleanrite Buildrite Wind, Water, Fire, Mold - 24 Hours Sacramento, Yuba City, Chico & Redding

(800) 870-0030 www.CRBR.com

continued next page

12

Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

Sacramento Claims Association News Network Services Directory continued from previous page

Thanks to all our paid directory listing sponsors

Engineers - Forensic

Barrish Pelham & Associates, Inc. - Lisa Esquivel 3001 E Street lesquivel@barrish.com • (916) 418-9100 Sacramento, CA 95816 www.Barrish.com • Fax (916) 400-4874 Complere Engineering Group, Inc. - Gene Wilkins, P.E. Fire C&O, Property Liability, Thermography, Structural 4230 Kiernan Av., Suite 210 wilkins@complere.com • (209) 545-8165 www.complere.com • Fax (209) 545-8170 Modesto, CA 95356 Haag Engineering Company - Kathy Krainock Leaders in kkrainock@haagengineering.com • (949) 861-8847 Forensic Engineering www.haagengineering.com • Fax (949) 861-8683 OConnor Engineering - Michael O’Connor/Chuck Thomas 1172 National Dr. Ste 100 (916) 640-0640 Sacramento, CA 95834 www.OConnor-Engineering.com

Environmental - Testing & Consulting

Sierra Environmental - Chris Hintz (209) 366-3684 P. O. Box 1563 www.SierraEnviro.com • (714) 519-1366 Woodbridge, CA 95258 Fax (866-612-8294

FIRE INVESTIGATORS

Fire Cause Analysis - Ulises Castellon, CPCU Throughout California, Arizona (800) 726-5939 • Fax: (510) 649-3099 Nevada, Oregon, N. Dakota & Minnesota inquiry@fcafire.com

Floor Covering

Masters Wholesale - Jeff Lovelace 2504 Mercantile Dr. jlovelace@masterswholesale.com • (916) 997-6728 Rancho Cordova, CA 95742 www.MastersWholesale.com • Fax (916) 669-3894

leak detection/plumbing

american leak detection - Monte Routon P.O. Box 525 www.AmericanLeakDetect.com • (916) 331-6443 americanleakdetectionsacramento@ymail.com Fair Oaks, CA 95628 Bull’s Eye leak detection - Daniel Spatz P. O. Box 73114 (916) 760-8944 Davis, CA 95614 bullseyedetection@gmail.com • Fax (916) 760-8970 Masters Wholesale - Mike LaVerdure 2504 Mercantile Dr. mlaverdure@masterswholesale.com • (916) 997-0423 Rancho Cordova, CA 95742 www.MastersWholesale.com • Fax (916) 669-3891

Overspray Removal

Nationwide Overspray Removal - Eric Gerencser Benicia, California

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

Property Restoration-Clothing Specialists

Blue SKy Cleaners - Robert Strong Garment Restoration - Nobody CARES about you more (925) 455-6000 Bob@blueskycleanersca.com Fax (925) 445-6002 FRSTeam - Jim and Courtney Nicholas 910 Striker Ave. Ste E Travis George tgeorge@frsteam.com • 916-920-8239 Sacramento, CA 95364 Ian Manes imanes@frsteam.com • 916-920-8239 Revival garment Restoration, Inc. - John Vigallon A Higher Class of Service (888) 602-9111 Throughout N. California john.vigallon@hotmail.com • Fax (209) 451-4778

property restoration/Contents

American Technologies, Inc. - Barry Metcalf/George Platt 8440 Elder Creek Road bmetcalf@amer-tech.com • (916) 388-2440 Sacramento, CA 95828 Fax (916) 388-2445 Belfor USA - Grant Cody 3132 Dwight Rd Ste 300 (916) 399-1865 • Fax (916) 399-9388 Elk Grove, CA 95758 grant.cody@us.belfor.com

Deadline for all submissions for the next issue is January 17, 2014

property restoration/Contents- continued Cleanrite Buildrite Wind, Water, Fire, Mold - 24 Hours (800) 870-0030 Sacramento, Yuba City, Chico & Redding www.CRBR.com Paul Davis Restoration of Greater Sacramento 3225 Monier Circle, Suite 200 800-954-FIRE • (916) 254-5115 Rancho Cordova, CA 95742 Fax (916) 254-5963 THE RESTORATION CLEANUP COMPANY Contents Restoration Specialists 800-500-4310 www.thecleanupco.com Asbestos Decontamination, NS Inventory restoration management Company Water, Smoke & Environmental Specialists 1800 Enterprise Blvd.

(800) 400-5058 tumland@rmc.com West Sacramento, CA 95691 ServiceMaster of Napa Vallejo & Benicia - Eric Larson/Lynn Fuller P. O. Box 6867 smnvb@interx.net • (800) 648-1608 Napa, CA 94581 Fax (707) 257-1608 ServiceMaster Restoration Services - Ryon Hayward Serving Contra Costa ryon@sharjo.com • (800) 480-TIDY www.svmcleaning-restoration.com & Marin Counties Servpro of Auburn/Rocklin - Ruth Griffith (916) 632-2250 2288- A Sierra Meadows Dr. Rocklin, CA 95677 office@servproauburnrocklin.com Servpro of Citrus Hts/Roseville/Carmichael - Jennifer Carpenter 701 Del Paso Rd (916) 966-2601 Sacramento, CA 95834 jcarpenter@servproofcitrusheights.com Servpro of Davis/Woodland - Mike & Melinda Haworth P. O. Box 2263 (530) 756-1414 Davis, CA 95617 servpro9644@surewest.net Servpro of Elk Grove/Laguna - Bill Lucas P. O. Box 2169 (916) 525-1241 Elk Grove, CA 95759 lucaswm@me.com Servpro of Fair Oaks/ Folsom - Dan Langford (916) 987-0400 P. O. Box 6 Orangevale, CA 95662 servpro9023@yahoo.com Servpro of FAIRFIELD - Kelly McLean (707) 207-0122 5130 Fulton Dr., Suite I Fairfield, CA 94534 sp9726@servprooffairfield.com • fax (707) 207-0120 Servpro of Rancho Cordova - Rose Miller (916) 638-1720 11361 Sunrise Gold Cir., Suite C Rancho Cordova, CA 95742 servpro9366@sbcglobal.net Zebra Restoration - Michael “ Z” Zboralske/Debbie Kutch 11365 Sunrise Park Dr. Ste 200 z@zebrarestoration.com • (916) 635-8571 Rancho Cordova, CA 95742 Debbie@zebrarestoration.com • Fax (916) 635-8573 Roof Inspection services

select roof inspections, LLC - Linda Shaw 5098 Foothills Blvd. Ste 3465 selectinspect@gmail.com • (916) 773-1650 Roseville, CA 95747 www.SelectRoofInspections.com • Fax (916) 773-1658

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Thank You to ALL our Subscribing Advertising Sponsors!

P

13

Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

eople

on the Move “Expansion into a new area can be a challenge for even the best of Environmental Remedies, Inc. Announces New Sacramento companies, but with Rob spearheading the delivery of ERI’s promises, Area Office & Promotion of Rob I have all the confidence in the world ERI’s Sacramento branch will be a success,” Tamayo stated. “While ERI’s success is most certainly Meyers

Scott Tamayo, General Manager of Environmental Remedies, Inc., is pleased to announce the opening of the firm’s new regional office in Sacramento, as well as the promotion of Mr. Rob Rob Meyers Meyers in the role of Regional Manager.

Environmental Remedies, Inc. specializes in the removal of asbestos, lead, and mold in both residential and commercial buildings. Now in its tenth year of operation, ERI has fine-tuned its business processes specifically for the insurance industry.

“Through prompt, high quality service, ERI has established long lasting relationships with numerous insurance adjusters, water mitigation companies, and restoration contractors alike” Mr. Tamayo said. “As a result, ERI has doubled in size twice in the last 5 years.

“At the request of many of our current clients, ERI has broadened our service area to include Sacramento and its surrounding communities,” he added. ERI plans to offer a high quality alternative for Sacramento’s abatement needs, just as it does in the Bay Area.

Rob Meyers was hired at ERI a year ago as Project Manager/Estimator, with the expansion into Sacramento in mind. He is in his 23rd year in this field, with a background in construction, water mitigation, and management already made him a very versatile asset for any company.

His background, coupled with his tireless work ethic, his humorous, happy-go-lucky demeanor, and now his abatement experience, quickly demonstrated he was ready to lead ERI’s team into a new market.

Prior to his work at ERI, Rob was with Anderson Group International in San Jose, CA for 5 years where he was the Sr. Project Manager/ Mitigation Manager.

Rob possesses key certifications, including: IICRC: Applied Microbial Remediation, Commercial Drying Specialist, Fire & Smoke Restoration among others. He is also a Certified Infrared Thermographer; possesses his 40 Hour supervisors asbestos license; an Asbestos Building Inspector’s license and Bloodborne Pathogen Remediation Certification.

Originally from New England, Rob grew up on a farm in New Hampshire. He moved to Northern California in 1992, and has raised his two children, Jacob and Joshua, here. Jacob Meyers, Rob’s oldest son, is also an estimator at Environmental Remedies, Inc. Of his 23 years in the industry, Rob has worked in residential construction for 12 years, 5 years in commercial construction and the last 6 years he has been dedicated to remediation/abatement exclusively.

a team effort, I truly feel we’re putting our best foot forward with Rob as regional manager.

Rob Meyers may be reached at: rob@env-rem.com, or his cell: 925-351-5172.

Artland Construction Expands Into Claims Restoration Market General Contracting Company, Artland Construction and Remodeling, was founded by Art Umland in 2009. At the time many folks said it was a brave move in light of the incredible downturn of the construction industry. But, with many solid relationships in the industry, Art’s business continued to grow in spite of the construction Tami & Art Umland climate.

Prior to Artland Construction, Art worked in the construction trade for over 15 years building custom homes and large school modernizations.

Art grew up in Grass Valley where he met his high school sweetheart and now wife of 18 years, Tami Umland. The couple currently live in the “country” just outside of Wheatland, California. They have 3 daughters, ages 8, 10, and 13, who keep them active with cheerleading, soccer, music lessons and the local 4H club involvement.

In October of 2013, Tami left her employment at Restoration Management Company after almost 5 years to join Art as a partner at Artland Construction. Together they have teamed up to grow the business further.

“I am excited about the opportunity that we have with Artland Construction and I can’t wait to see this dream of ours unfold”, says Tami.

Artland Construction provides reconstruction services for multiunit apartment, commercial and residential fire and water damaged structures.

“We will respond to your calls in Sacramento, Placer, Nevada, Yolo, Yuba and Sutter Counties.”

Contact info: Art Umland - art.umland@ArtlandConstruction.com - 916-225-4347 and Tami Umland - tami.umland@ArtlandConstruction. com - 916-834-3047

14

Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

More Than $63.7 Million Recovered for California Consumers In 2013 AssociationNewsNetwork.com

Positions Available 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.

Temporary Housing/Insurance Claims Assured Relocation is the leading national temporary housing provider for insurance companies. The position is fast paced. We need people with empathy, a sense of urgency, and claims experience using software (Salesforce preferably). Salary/ benefits/exciting work environment in Menlo Park. Email resume/cover letter to Jobs@assuredrelocation.com.

Submit Your Job Connection ad to:

Choose from Four (4) Monthly Print Editions + Online Edition: www.AssociationNewsNetwork.com/job.html Up to 50 words just $45 (just 50¢/word thereafter) Run Your Ad Network-Wide for a net rate of just $168/mo.

Next Deadline for submissions is February 21, 2014 call 209-229-8240 or fax FAX# 209-229-8328 info@AssociationNewsNetwork.com

“I long to accomplish a great and noble task; but it is my chief duty and joy to accomplish humble tasks as though they were great and noble.”

Helen Keller

State’s largest consumer protection agency reaffirms its commitment to Californians The California Department of Insurance announced February 6, 2014 that during 2013 it recovered more than $63.7 million for consumers through consumer complaint investigations and market conduct examinations of insurance companies.

The consumer hotline receives approximately 170,000 calls annually. Through its complaint handling efforts, the Consumer Services Division recovered over $55.6 million for consumers in 2013. Since taking office in 2011 the total returned to consumers by the department's direct intervention is more than $182,000,000.

"It's nice to know that there is a government agency that looks out for consumers' medical needs," said Tony Simek, a California consumer who was one the thousands of people helped by the department last year. "I wouldn't have the quality of life I do now without the help of the California Department of Insurance. My insurer was shortsighted and treated me like a number. The Department of Insurance treated me like a human, with dignity, and has empowered me to restore my health!" continued next page

The Sacramento Claims Association News Network© is a production of Association News Network, Inc. Published monthly as a free service to the SCA 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 SCA. We 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. We reserve 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.SacramentoClaims.org Please submit articles for consideration by email, to: Bryan Harrison, Publisher Bryan@AssociationNewsNetwork.com • 209.229.8240

For Advertising opportunities and information, contact: Lynna Harrison, New Accounts Manager Lynna@AssociationNewsNetwork.com • 925.785.7021

© 1994-2014, all rights reserved • Association News Network, Inc. • www.AssociationNewsNetwork.com • 2455 Naglee Rd. #263 . Tracy, CA 95304 • 209.229.8240 • fax 209.229.8328

15

Sacramento Claims Association News Network • February 2014

News From The CDI continued

President’s Message continued from page 3

The Market Conduct Division consists of the field claims bureau and a field rating and underwriting bureau. The bureaus are tasked with performing examinations of insurance company claims, underwriting, rating and marketing practices to ensure they are complying with all applicable law and regulations.

2014 SCA Street Team!

Direct communication still reins as the most effective way to reach out to the overall community. SCA is proud to announce its new “Street Team” volunteers. Get to know one today!

Tami Umland, Chair - Artland Construction Scott Andrews - PW Stephens Environmental, Inc. Danell Cassetta - Cleanrite Buildrite Donovan Flores - Servpro of Citrus Heights/Roseville & Carmichael Haven Fry - JM Environmental Jason Kettlehut - PW Stephens Environmental, Inc. Jim Krueger - ServiceMaster Advantage Barbara Larson - Haag Engineering Jackie McLain - Servpro of Citrus Heights/Roseville & Carmichael

Our 2014 calendar is already shaping-up!

- May 8th/Towing Rates, Liens, Storage & “Move Over Law” - June 6th/ SCA Golf Tournament - July 10th/The Virtual Worker - August 19th & 20th/CCNC - September 11th/Ethics - October 9th/ Legal Update & 2015 SCA Board Elections - November 13th/Behavioral Traits - December 11th/Annual Charities Donations and Presentations So I want to personally invite all of you to come and be part of what is happening at the SCA each and every month in 2014. Bring a friend and get involved….you will not be disappointed!

Bob Battezzato

Bob Battezzato 2013 President Sacramento Claims Association Cleanrite-Buildrite bobb@crbr.com (530) 570-9070

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