Property loss is what every homeowner fears. The emotional turmoil that the affected person or family experiences is deeply personal and can cause an extraordinary amount of stress. When disaster strikes, people are most concerned with fulfilling their primary requirements of food and shelter, stemming from basic physiological needs. Claim adjusters serve as the primary resource for help in the eyes of the displaced policyholder who is confronting the unknown. For even the most seasoned adjusters, helping put clients' lives back on track is challenging.

While additional living expenses (ALE) represent only one component, it can set the tone for the entire claim. Homeowners can view the claim adjuster as either a friend or a foe, depending on the adjuster's initial response to meet their basic needs. It is only after those needs are met that homeowners can begin to focus on the other details of claim handling. Locating temporary housing is a crucial step in the recovery process.

Even though each case is distinct, simple guidelines can be used to assess the specific temporary housing needs of most clients.