Dear Mr. Editor,
At this point, I felt it was time to inform and update your readers on what transpired after my first letter to you was published approximately a month ago.
First, it was interesting to note the reaction the first letter caused. It became a point of discussion in many forums (public and social) and it seemed to have resonated with others in similar positions like myself. The messages of support I received served to bolster my waning strength and eased (somewhat) my serious frustration with this whole affair.
Of course, I received (1 day after my letter ran) – an invitation by another Nagico rep to a meeting to “discuss my claim.” At that point I was hopeful, but my expectations were low. After the pleasantries, I was told that they were hoping to resolve this matter with me quickly, so we could all move on. I agreed wholeheartedly. However, after sitting for an hour and listening to justifications for certain figures, and that hated word “under-insurance” come up, I realized the “quick” resolution we were both hoping for would not happen.
Let me put things in perspective: Let’s say the estimated damage to my house totaled $150-175. The 1st offer was $53. Then the 2nd offer went up to $81. You can add zeros where you deem appropriate. When asked how I felt about the 2nd offer, I smiled and said the same way I felt about the 1st offer. That cannot fix my house. I was told to work with them and consider the 2nd offer as that’s the best they can do. I left the office. At that point I wasn’t even mad. My expectations were low, so this didn’t come as a surprise.
In an email later that day, the rep again asked me to consider the offer – which was $28 more than the original; how they were willing to waive certain things, but the under-insurance remained a sticking point. Right. That $28 extra should have turned my head. Right?
In a lengthy response to the rep, I said it was sad that all the information I’m receiving now, was nowhere in any documents I signed with Nagico. Had I been previously informed of all the – interesting – ways Nagico settled house claims, none of this would have come as a surprise.
I know how much it’ll take to fix my house and $81 wasn’t even close. And guess what? The longer this whole affair takes, the more expensive it becomes to fix my house.
In addition, I was told that it was “unfortunate” that my bank hadn’t informed me of my house being under-insured. So, now it’s my bank’s responsibility to inform me of this? Aren’t you an insurance company? Isn’t that your responsibility?
I was told that purchasing insurance on a property valued for more was the customer’s choice. My house was insured for the sum it was worth back then. I have the appraisals to prove it.
I was told that Nagico has a responsibility to its reinsurers. Doesn’t Nagico have a responsibility also to its customers? Especially long-term customers like myself who NEVER filed a claim for her house?
I was told that due to Nagico’s policies, nothing more could be done. Oh really? Policies that are unknown to your customers until they file a claim? Well, I beg to differ.
In the meantime, my complaint to the Central Bank was acknowledged, and they will be looking into my complaint. I consulted with an advocate of sorts (we can’t afford a lawyer because all our efforts are to ensure our house is secure), who has promised to speak to Nagico on my behalf and I was asked to speak on a radio show.
And I will continue to speak out.
I have accepted that this battle will be one of the toughest I’ve ever faced, but I have faith that everything will work out.
Renovations on my home will not start in time for Hurricane season 2018, but I know and have faith that they will certainly start before year’s end.
As always I try to look on the bright side. I can still live in my house, which still leaks every time it rains; I have a job with supportive colleagues, and I still have my voice.
For the 10% of you (myself included) with unresolved claims by Nagico, file a complaint with the Consumers Coalition on 148 Back Street. You can also file a complaint with the Central Bank. You can download the complaint form from their website (http://www.centralbank.cw/complaint-forms), and email the complaint directly to them.
Yes, Nagico, I’m still here. Did you think you could dismiss me so easily? That I would leave your offices like a dog with its tail between its legs?
I must thank you though, for making me feel like a beggar. Like I’m asking you for too much. Is this what 15 years of paying for house insurance to you is worth? And what will you tell me if (God forbid) my house sustains more damage during this hurricane season? That my house was already damaged? That it wasn’t fixed on time? That it’s still under-insured? That your policies (known only to you) don’t make it possible for you to settle with me?
All I want is for my claim to be settled fairly, so I can start rebuilding my home (which I dearly miss), and put this whole mess behind me. That’s all I want.
Regards,
Mrs. Corinne A. Lejuez-VanPutten
Nagico Policy Holder HOC5783/03
EDITOR NOTE:
We invite whoever has an issue with the same company or others to step forward and contact us.
As 721news is willing to bring your case to light just as we are doing for Ms. Van Putten.
The more publicity of Hurricane Irma victims come forward is better for Central Bank of Curacao and St Maarten to step in ASAP. 721news does not agree with victimizing the victim twice.
Send us your letter via 721news@gmail.com we will publish your grievances!!!
WE STAND WITH THE VICTIMS OF NATURAL DISASTER.
