Vt. Supreme Court Says Homeowner Has No Claim Against Adjusters

MONTPELIER, Vt. - Vermont's high court affirmed Dec. 30 that homeowners who object to the adjustment of their claim have no cause of action against the adjuster and are limited to claims against the insurer. Hamill v. Pawtucket Mutual Insurance Co., No. 2005-025 (Vt. Sup. Ct.).

Samuel Hamill contended that water and mold damage to his home was exacerbated by the adjusters' delay and negligence in inspecting and settling his claim.

Hamill said a power outage in February 2001 caused his water pipes to freeze and led to flooding. He said he reported the damage to Pawtucket Mutual Insurance Co. …