Urgent: Who is the independent insurance agent working for, me or the insurance carrier?

I might consult a lawyer first, but in my case, my indy insurance agent seems to at least want to be on my side, though I’m not sure they have any influence in such regards, though they can at least give me a friendly perspective.

Thanks! My late husband always took care of this stuff. I have to talk to the guy tomorrow, and I need to know how trusting or wary I should be.

Tomorrw won’t be the end of it, though, so any other comments will still be welcome.

Arbitration might be another possibility.

What are they claiming about the alleged speck on your roof?

I’ve heard of this tactic, recently.
Insurance companies using drones actually, to take photos of your home or property, will drop coverage or adjust rates based on findings.

I’ve seen repo drivers, using drones now too.

It’s a federal offense to shoot drones down. Currently…

That speck on your roof could be anything- a big leaf, an animal, a bird flying past, or a bit of debris from someone else’s roof! If your roof is currently intact, why should they care? You could start by checking with your state’s insurance commissioner.

Also I think your insurance agent sells you a policy, but they have no say in how it’s applied.

I think California is a difficult place to run a business and they are trying to reduce costs by canceling you.

Be very wary. Don’t trust anyone, and whatever they tell you get it all in writing.

Also, always, as with any business call (phone call), get the name of the person you speak to and write it down with the date, so you can recount what was said and who said it.

I’m not sure. If your insurance cancels you, then I guess the agent will try to sell you another policy. I wouldn’t trust anyone completely.

If your company is trying to get out of covering you, maybe you should shop around for new insurance.

Can you just send new photos to them of the roof?

When my parents had insurance question something I think they sent someone out to inspect if I remember correctly. They have USAA though, so a very trustworthy company that prides itself on not dropping clients already covered.

An independent agent represents several companies so you are their client. They,may or may not advocate directly for you but they should be able to give you good advice on what to do. I would talk to them first.

Also, I suggest you contact a certified roofing Inspector. Ask them to give you a document with color photos of the current condition of your roof.

Insurance companies rely on certified roofing inspectors for estimates and so on.

The agent works for the insurance company(ies) as their sales agent.

He may be nice to you to sell something, but his paycheck comes from them

The key word here is ‘agent.’

https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/principal-agent-relationship.asp

Several insurance companies are using the the “roof excuse” to cancel home owner policies in high risk areas / states i.e. Florida. One person had installed solar panels, that the insurance company called damaged roofing and terminated their insurance.

They do damage roofs.

@SnipSnip (not usually)

Solar panels are unlikely to damage a roof if installed correctly by a licensed professional. However, improper installation can lead to roof damage, such as leaks, rot, and mold.
Google AI

I don’t know the answer, but it seems to me that if they receive their commission from the insurance company, then that’s who they work for.

Whoever pays them is where their loyaty goes.

I think it’s not just who pays them, but how can they make the most money. Do they make more getting a new policy than handling an existing policy? I have no idea, but just wondering.

An independent agent is just that. They represent the interests of the client and the companies. I kind of was an owner of an insurance agency so I’m a bit of an expert here. In any case, there’s no harm in talking to your agent and seeing what they have to say.

How did it go with agent @Jeruba ?

Since the OP asked for advice I too would like an update.

Update: I postponed the call and will be speaking with him today or tomorrow. I’m grateful for all responses and the perspective they’ve given me.

@Janbb, given your expertise:

Do insurers have a right to inventory my yard and tell me what I can’t have there?

When there’s a process going on, such as sorting and recycling of waste materials, can they assume rights over my property and activity?

Can I ask for an extension to reduce the accumulation?

I don’t want answer definitively as I’m not an expert in all aspects of insurance. I do think they have the right to inspect your property and see if it is a viable risk. I doubt they would have the right to remove anything or assume rights over your property but they might cancel your coverage. Your state should have an insurance board that you can ask these question of.

If property inspection rules for insurance are anything like the propty inspection rules for mortgages, they have the right not only to inspect the property, but also to bill you for the inspection! And it may just be a drive-by inspection!