The preliminary report, or “prelim”, is the adjuster’s first report based on the initial inspection of the insured’s property after a flood. The preliminary report provides a high-level overview of the loss.
All of the data recorded on the preliminary report is important. Reserves are set, providing the estimated payout of the claim. The description of risk is included in addition to the origin of the loss, which reflects whether or not there is a General Condition of Flooding (GCF). The approximate reserve amounts on the preliminary report are sent to FEMA for financial purposes.
Pay special attention to the diagram and the report together - customers will ask specifically about this and you need to cross-reference!
The preliminary report also addresses flood characteristics, such as:
- Water depths
- The length of time the water remained in the building
- The type of water event
The preliminary report is due from the adjuster within 15 days of the assignment, and the examiner should process the report within 48 hours of it being received.
Refer to this table:
| Category 1 | Category 2 | Category 3 |
| 1 | 2 | 3 |
| A | B | C |
Checklist for Compliance:
- First
- Second
- Third
- Fourth
- Fifth