Gore Mutual partners with EcoClaim to reduce environmental impact

OTTAWA — Gore Mutual is the first insurer in Canada to require their restoration contractors to obtain EcoClaim certification, which provides training in the industry by focusing on repairing, rather than replacing, materials.

“By utilizing 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 program 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.

“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.”