The Savvy Adjuster Newsletter — January 2026 Edition


A new year doesn’t mean different challenges. In 2026, insurance professionals like yourself will continue to face the daunting tasks of verifying reported causes of loss, confirming claim details when red flags arise, and determining whether measures were taken to prevent a loss or mitigate its severity. Luckily, you don’t have to handle these obstacles alone.
In this edition of The Savvy Adjuster Newsletter, you’ll find information about pinpointing potential misrepresentation in claims, understanding what goes into tree and debris removal costs, and uncovering fire loss details that could influence claim outcomes. Check out our 2026 webinar lineup, and then register for several upcoming CE events below.
How Do Puffbacks Occur Video
With cold snaps throughout the country, the risk of puffbacks affecting HVAC equipment remains. This quick video outlines what they are and how they’re caused.
Watch January’s Webinar Recording
Commercial Fire Basics: Kitchens Webinar Recording covers fire risk analysis, how to ensure the policyholder is compliant with NFPA standards, fire suppression technology, and system maintenance, all of which can impact a commercial kitchen fire and its severity. Watch the Recording

How Synthetic Identities Show Up in Claim Investigations
Identity theft is taking on various forms, including synthetic identities or “Frankenstein identities” that could combine real and fake information. This article details how they are created and used in insurance claims, as well as how you can spot them. Read More
Understanding Tree and Debris Removal Costs
Transparency in tree and debris removal costs should be expected by insurance professionals. Recognize what factors influence these expenses and how to avoid price-gouging attempts. Learn More
The Possible Link Between Cooking Fires and Subrogation Potential
Always confirm the origin and cause of a cooking fire. Unattended cooking isn’t the only reason these incidents occur. Learn more about installation errors and manufacturing defects that could be present. Find Out
Tree Impact Case Study
When a tree falls on a structure, one of your first calls should be to an engineer. This case study demonstrates what an inspection can reveal about the scope of loss. Read the Case Study
If you found these resources helpful and are looking for more, you can explore a wealth of materials in our resources library. We are always available to answer your questions about Alpine Intel’s suite of services and how we can offer innovative solutions to your complex insurance-related challenges! Sign up so you don’t miss February’s Savvy Adjuster Newsletter!
Don’t miss insurance-focused resources and webinars about property, perils, and trends impacting claims nationwide by signing up for The Savvy Adjuster Newsletter.
Be sure to also tune in to The Savvy Adjuster Podcast to hear more from the experts themselves.
Alpine Intel’s content is meant to inform and educate readers using general terms and descriptions. They do not replace expert evaluations that determine facts and details related to each unique claim.
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Related Resources
HMI’s Tree Removal Cost Guide
This Tree Removal Cost Guide for 2026 explains the estimated cost of tree removal services for companies in the HMI network.
Snow Load Damage Claim Case Study
Donan’s forensic engineers provided an adjuster with assessments related to two claims on the same property that cited snow load damage. Find out the results.
Reported Freeze Damage: HVAC System Case Study
An adjuster needed expert support for a furnace claim that cited freeze damage and a full replacement estimate. Get the case study to see how HVACi provided answers.







