Claims Industry Faces Labor Shortages Amid Rising Policyholder Expectations
What happened
Lance Malcolm, president of Crawford & Company, noted that property claims entering 2027 face challenges related to labor shortages and complex contractor economics. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects increased openings for claims adjusters. Malcolm also cited a J.D. Power 2026 study showing that homeowners' repairs averaged 29.6 days, down 2.8 days from the previous year.
Why it matters
The persistent constraints on the workforce needed to deliver claims services, combined with elevated policyholder expectations, puts pressure on insurance carriers and brokers. These pressures relate to balancing speed, workmanship, and accurate estimates within the industry's economics.
Who's involved
- MalcolmPresident of Crawford & Company
- Crawford & CompanyAmerican insurance claims management company
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsUS government agency that projects labor market trends
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- Crawford & CompanySpeculative
Crawford & Company might see increased operational costs and slower service delivery due to labor shortages.
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The entities involved
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Malcolm
Roman Catholic bishop
Nothing else this week.
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Crawford & Company
American insurance claims management company
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Bureau of Labor Statistics
US government agency