The adjuster’s first report is the Preliminary Report Form. It is important to submit the Preliminary Report as soon as possible, preferably the same day as the inspection but no later than 15 calendar days after the assignment, along with perimeter photographs of the risk and photographs of the damage.

The adjuster must complete all sections in the Preliminary Report as accurately and with as much detail as possible. When a unique circumstance develops with the assignment which delays the initial inspection, the adjuster should immediately submit a narrative documenting the insurer’s claim file of the reason for the unavoidable delay. The form must be signed by the adjuster and include the active FCN.

Note: The company for which you are handling claims may request that they receive the preliminary report sooner than the 15-day deadline.