ICMIF member Gore Mutual says it is the first insurer in Canada to require their restoration contractors to obtain EcoClaim® certification, which provides unique training in the industry by focusing on repairing, rather than replacing, materials.
“By utilising restoration contractors who are EcoClaim certified, we will achieve quicker claims settlements, more affordable settlements, and reduced environmental impact through recycling opportunities and advanced water remediation methods,” said Paul Jackson, Chief Operating Officer, Gore Mutual. “Water has replaced fire as Gore Mutual’s, and other insurers’, mostly costly peril. By ensuring our contractors and staff are trained in waste diversion and structural drying processes to avoid demolition, as well as other techniques, we can drastically reduce the environmental impact of our claims.”
Those who go through the certification programme will be trained in the science of how water affects building materials and proper drying techniques, as well as understanding the correct facilities to send recyclables.
“The EcoClaim certification is our way of helping insurance companies, independent adjusters, and restoration companies increase sustainability and decrease the environmental impact of their claims process,” said Lance Pizzariello, Director of EcoClaim. “By implementing eco-friendly practices and embracing measurable sustainability standards, we can collectively make a significant difference in reducing our industry’s ecological footprint.”
All Gore Mutual property adjusters are in the process of becoming fully trained and certified in the EcoClaim process. By ensuring that that its adjusters are skilled and well-trained in this process, the mutual insurer aims to foster better cooperation and alignment with its restoration vendor partners and the EcoClaim process.
“We will be able to service customers faster by using these advanced water mitigation and remediation methods and will prevent the customer from moving out of their home by avoiding the time associated with tearing out damaged property, moving furniture, installing new materials, or painting,” said Vance Somerton, Director, Claims Operations, Property, Gore Mutual. “Not only is it faster, but it’s also less expensive to dry, save and repair damaged property than it is to replace it. So, if a customer’s policy has a coverage limit, any additional cost to them will be much less.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Gore Mutual, a company that shares our commitment to environmental responsibility,” said Manuel Martineau, Vice President of Operations, EcoClaim. “Through the EcoClaim programme, we aim to guide insurers, adjusters, and restoration contractors in implementing clear protocols that prioritise sustainability, ultimately fostering a greener future for the insurance industry.”
As a purpose-driven insurer, Gore Mutual says it is important for it to do its part in diverting materials from landfills. In fact, it’s estimated that because of this collaboration, Gore Mutual will save greater than a million pounds of waste a year.
“Gore Mutual understands the importance of purpose and the need to embed it across all elements of our operations,” said Gaby Polanco Sorto, VP & Head of Purpose and Sustainability, Gore Mutual. “Our partnership with EcoClaim is a first step in achieving this goal and signifies our unwavering commitment to do business the right way: integrating purpose into everything we do, working with like-minded partners across our value chain, while at the same time, ensuring excellent support and service to our policyholders.”
