The Property Loss Research Bureau (PLRB) has long served as a cornerstone for insurance professionals, offering insights, research, and tools to improve claims handling and risk management. As we approach PLRB 2026, the landscape of claims is evolving, bringing with it new strategies, technologies, and considerations for insurers, adjusters, and risk managers alike.
The Changing Landscape of Claims Management
Claims management has undergone a profound transformation over the past decade. Increasingly complex risks, emerging technologies, and shifting regulatory frameworks are reshaping how insurers and adjusters approach the process. PLRB 2026 represents not only an opportunity to reflect on these changes but also a chance to anticipate future trends.
Emerging Risks and Their Impact
Property and casualty claims are no longer confined to conventional scenarios such as fire or water damage. Climate change, cyber threats, and supply chain disruptions are creating multifaceted exposures that require nuanced claims strategies. Adjusters must now consider:
- The frequency and severity of natural disasters in certain regions
- The growing prevalence of cyber-related losses in commercial and residential properties
- Interdependencies between infrastructure, supply chains, and property values
These emerging risks necessitate more sophisticated loss evaluation and mitigation techniques, a focus that PLRB 2026 emphasizes through data-driven research and industry insights.
Leveraging Technology in Claims Handling
Technological innovation has been a game-changer for the insurance sector, and claims management is no exception. The integration of advanced tools and platforms allows for more accurate assessments, faster processing, and improved customer experiences.
Artificial Intelligence and Predictive Analytics
Artificial intelligence (AI) is enabling insurers to analyze vast datasets to predict claims outcomes, detect fraud, and optimize resource allocation. Predictive analytics tools can help adjusters determine:
- Likely settlement amounts based on historical claims data
- Probability of litigation in certain claims scenarios
- Potential areas of hidden damage during property inspections
PLRB 2026 highlights case examples of AI applications, providing strategies for insurers to incorporate predictive modeling into their daily operations without compromising accuracy or compliance.
Remote Inspections and Drone Technology
Remote inspection capabilities, including drone usage, have revolutionized the way physical damage is assessed. Particularly for large-scale disasters or difficult-to-access properties, drones offer a safe, efficient, and cost-effective solution. Key benefits include:
- Comprehensive aerial surveys that reduce the need for on-site visits
- High-resolution imaging for precise damage documentation
- Faster claim initiation, which improves policyholder satisfaction
These technologies, increasingly emphasized in PLRB 2026, are not only reducing operational costs but also transforming the role of the claims adjuster into a more strategic and analytical function.
Enhancing Risk Assessment and Mitigation
Effective claims strategies begin long before an incident occurs. Proactive risk assessment and mitigation are critical components of modern claims management.
Data-Driven Risk Profiling
Insurers now have access to more sophisticated data sources than ever before. Leveraging historical loss data, geographic information systems (GIS), and predictive models allows risk managers to anticipate potential claims and implement preventative measures. PLRB 2026 underscores the importance of:
- Dynamic risk scoring based on property attributes and regional trends
- Identifying emerging hazards before they result in significant losses
- Collaborating with clients to implement preventative measures
This forward-looking approach helps insurers reduce claim frequency and severity, ultimately improving their bottom line.
Preventative Measures and Policyholder Education
Educating policyholders on risk reduction strategies is another avenue emphasized in PLRB 2026. Effective programs may include:
- Maintenance checklists and safety protocols for commercial and residential properties
- Guidance on climate-related risk mitigation, such as flood barriers or fire-resistant landscaping
- Digital platforms for monitoring property conditions in real time
Proactively engaging policyholders enables insurers to reduce loss occurrences and build more meaningful client relationships.
Transforming Claims Processes
Efficiency and accuracy in claims handling remain central to the industry’s evolution. PLRB 2026 highlights several process-oriented innovations that streamline claims operations.
Workflow Automation
Automation has transformed routine claims activities such as document management, notifications, and basic data entry. Automated workflows can:
- Reduce administrative burdens on adjusters
- Ensure consistent communication with policyholders
- Minimize human error in documentation and reporting
Integrating automation does not replace the expertise of adjusters but instead allows them to focus on higher-value tasks such as complex loss evaluation and strategy development.
Collaborative Platforms
Digital collaboration platforms are facilitating seamless communication between insurers, adjusters, contractors, and policyholders. Features like real-time updates, shared documentation, and task tracking create a transparent and efficient claims ecosystem. PLRB 2026 highlights case studies where collaborative platforms have:
- Shortened claim resolution timelines
- Improved transparency and policyholder satisfaction
- Enhanced regulatory compliance through auditable communication trails
Advanced Training and Professional Development
The role of the claims professional continues to evolve, requiring a combination of technical skills, analytical capabilities, and interpersonal expertise. PLRB 2026 emphasizes ongoing education and professional development as crucial elements in unlocking new claims strategies.
Specialized Training Programs
Adjusters now benefit from specialized training programs focusing on emerging risks, advanced investigative techniques, and complex property assessments. Training initiatives highlighted by PLRB 2026 include:
- Advanced property inspection methodologies
- Cyber and technological loss assessment
- Legal and regulatory compliance updates
Such programs equip adjusters with the knowledge and confidence to navigate increasingly complex claims environments.
Soft Skills and Customer Engagement
Technical proficiency alone is not sufficient. Modern claims professionals must also excel in communication, negotiation, and customer service. Effective engagement strategies can:
- Reduce disputes and litigation
- Strengthen policyholder relationships
- Enhance overall claim satisfaction
PLRB 2026 stresses the integration of soft skills into formal training programs to produce well-rounded claims professionals capable of handling complex interactions with empathy and professionalism.
Navigating Regulatory Changes
Regulatory compliance continues to shape claims strategies. Insurance regulations are evolving at both the state and federal levels, impacting how claims are processed, documented, and resolved.
Adapting to Legislative Updates
Keeping abreast of legislative changes is essential for insurers and adjusters. Key considerations for PLRB 2026 include:
- Understanding new reporting requirements for property losses
- Ensuring data privacy compliance in digital claims processing
- Navigating evolving standards for catastrophe claims handling
Proactively adapting claims strategies to align with regulatory changes helps insurers avoid penalties and maintain credibility with policyholders.
Compliance-Driven Claims Strategies
Beyond adhering to regulations, compliance can also drive operational efficiency and strategic advantage. Structured documentation, audit-ready processes, and standardized procedures ensure that claims are processed consistently and transparently. PLRB 2026 provides practical insights on creating claims frameworks that are both compliant and strategically beneficial.
Optimizing Catastrophe and Large-Loss Claims
Catastrophe claims pose unique challenges due to their scale, complexity, and potential for high financial impact. PLRB 2026 explores innovative strategies for managing large-loss events effectively.
Pre-Event Preparedness
Preparation is key to minimizing disruption during catastrophes. Strategies include:
- Establishing rapid response teams for immediate assessment
- Maintaining pre-negotiated agreements with contractors and service providers
- Utilizing predictive modeling to forecast resource needs
These measures ensure that large-scale events are managed efficiently and that policyholders receive timely support.
Post-Event Recovery Strategies
Efficient post-event recovery involves a coordinated approach that integrates claims handling, risk assessment, and client communication. PLRB 2026 emphasizes:
- Leveraging technology for real-time damage assessment
- Prioritizing claims based on severity and urgency
- Maintaining transparent communication channels with affected policyholders
Combining preparation with strategic execution allows insurers to mitigate financial exposure and enhance customer satisfaction even in high-stress scenarios.
Embracing Innovation in Claims Settlement
The claims settlement process is evolving from a reactive model to one that emphasizes speed, accuracy, and customer experience. PLRB 2026 highlights several innovative approaches that are transforming settlement practices.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, such as mediation and arbitration, are becoming increasingly important in resolving complex claims efficiently. Benefits include:
- Faster resolution compared to traditional litigation
- Reduced legal costs
- Greater flexibility in negotiating outcomes that satisfy both parties
Integrating ADR into claims strategies helps insurers resolve disputes without prolonging the claims process unnecessarily.
Technology-Enhanced Settlements
Digital platforms and mobile applications are streamlining settlements, allowing policyholders to submit documentation, track progress, and receive payouts more quickly. Features highlighted in PLRB 2026 include:
- AI-assisted damage estimates
- Secure digital payment solutions
- Automated communications and status updates
These innovations reduce friction in the claims process, improve transparency, and foster stronger client trust.
The Future of Claims: Strategic Insights for PLRB 2026
Looking ahead, PLRB 2026 represents an opportunity for insurers, adjusters, and risk managers to rethink their approach to claims. Integrating technology, emphasizing proactive risk management, and investing in professional development enable the industry to unlock more efficient, effective, and customer-focused strategies.
Integrating Data, Technology, and Human Expertise
The future of claims is not about replacing human judgment with technology but enhancing decision-making through data-driven insights. Combining AI, predictive analytics, and remote assessment tools with skilled adjusters enables:
- Faster and more accurate claim resolutions
- Reduced exposure to fraud and errors
- Enhanced policyholder satisfaction
PLRB 2026 serves as a roadmap for how the industry can leverage these tools to maximize both operational efficiency and client outcomes.
A Holistic Approach to Claims Management
Successful claims strategies in 2026 and beyond will require a holistic approach, encompassing:
- Advanced risk assessment and mitigation
- Streamlined processes and automated workflows
- Continuous professional development and training
- Compliance-driven frameworks
- Customer-focused settlement strategies
Aligning these components enables insurers to create a resilient, adaptive, and innovative claims management system that meets the demands of an increasingly complex landscape.
Integrating Climate Risk into Claims Strategies
One of the most pressing challenges for property insurers today is climate change. As extreme weather events grow in frequency and severity, claims strategies must adapt to account for heightened risk exposure. PLRB 2026 emphasizes the importance of incorporating climate risk data into loss estimation and proactive planning.
Advanced Climate Modeling
Insurance professionals are increasingly relying on sophisticated climate models to predict potential loss events. Integrating these models into claims strategies allows insurers to:
- Identify high-risk regions before disasters occur
- Anticipate claim surges after severe weather events
- Allocate resources effectively to areas with the highest potential impact
These models provide an evidence-based approach, helping insurers move from reactive to predictive claims management.
Resilience-Focused Adjusting
Adjusters are now tasked with more than simply assessing damage—they must evaluate property resilience and the effectiveness of mitigation measures. PLRB 2026 highlights emerging best practices, such as:
- Reviewing construction materials and building codes for durability
- Assessing flood barriers, fire-resistant landscaping, and stormproofing measures
- Incorporating sustainability metrics into claims valuation
Integrating climate-focused insights enables insurers to more accurately price risk and enhance post-loss recovery recommendations.
Cyber-Physical Risk in Property Claims
The convergence of cyber and physical risks is another area where PLRB 2026 is driving new claims strategies. Property losses are no longer purely physical; increasingly, digital threats can amplify the severity and complexity of claims.
Cyber-Enabled Property Damage
Incidents such as ransomware attacks that disrupt building management systems, IoT-enabled HVAC failures, or security breaches in automated warehouses highlight the intersection of cyber and property risks. Claims strategies must now:
- Coordinate with cybersecurity experts to assess indirect damages
- Analyze IoT and digital sensor data to trace incident causes
- Account for potential operational downtime alongside physical damage
This hybrid approach represents a significant shift in the scope of property claims, requiring adjusters to develop cross-disciplinary expertise.
Incident Response and Recovery Plans
PLRB 2026 underscores the necessity of integrated response plans that cover both cyber and physical impacts. Recommended practices include:
- Pre-established protocols for IT and facilities teams
- Rapid coordination between insurance, legal, and technical stakeholders
- Post-event audits to strengthen future risk mitigation
Addressing cyber-physical exposure helps insurers reduce the potential for extended claims and costly litigation.
Harnessing Geospatial Intelligence for Claims Optimization
Geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) is becoming a critical tool in property claims management. Leveraging satellite imagery, GIS data, and remote sensing allows insurers to gain a real-time understanding of risk landscapes.
Satellite and Aerial Imaging
High-resolution imagery can be used to assess property conditions before and after loss events. Benefits include:
- Rapid assessment of large-scale disaster areas without on-the-ground deployment
- Detection of hidden damage or risk patterns that may not be visible in traditional inspections
- Historical analysis to track risk evolution and predict future loss potential
PLRB 2026 emphasizes that the integration of geospatial data is key to faster, more accurate claims resolution.
Predictive Geospatial Analytics
Beyond reactive assessment, predictive geospatial analytics can anticipate risk events based on environmental, urban, and climatic trends. This approach enables insurers to:
- Forecast vulnerable properties during wildfire seasons or flood events
- Strategically deploy adjusters and resources for high-risk zones
- Provide policyholders with tailored mitigation recommendations
The use of geospatial intelligence transforms claims strategies from reactive documentation to proactive risk management.
Embedding Sustainability into Claims Practices
Sustainability is no longer a peripheral consideration; it is becoming central to insurance operations. PLRB 2026 encourages the adoption of environmentally conscious claims strategies that reduce long-term losses and improve corporate responsibility.
Green Restoration and Repair
Post-loss repairs present an opportunity to incorporate sustainable practices. Key strategies include:
- Utilizing eco-friendly materials for reconstruction
- Prioritizing energy-efficient systems and renewable energy solutions
- Encouraging contractors to adopt waste-reduction and recycling measures
These practices not only reduce environmental impact but may also lower future loss exposure.
Sustainable Risk Mitigation Programs
Insurers can incentivize policyholders to adopt sustainable measures by linking risk mitigation to premium adjustments. Examples include:
- Offering discounts for installing solar panels, green roofing, or advanced fire suppression systems
- Encouraging drought-tolerant landscaping to reduce wildfire risk
- Supporting flood mitigation infrastructure, such as permeable surfaces and rain gardens
Embedding sustainability strengthens insurer-policyholder relationships and positions companies as forward-thinking leaders in the property insurance space.
Leveraging Behavioral Data in Claims Decision-Making
Behavioral analytics is emerging as a valuable tool for understanding policyholder behavior and anticipating claims trends. PLRB 2026 identifies behavioral data as a key driver of smarter claims strategies.
Policyholder Interaction Patterns
Analyzing how policyholders interact with digital platforms allows insurers to predict risk behaviors and potential claims triggers. Applications include:
- Identifying patterns that precede frequent loss reports
- Customizing communication to encourage preventative actions
- Enhancing fraud detection by flagging inconsistent behaviors
Behavioral insights allow insurers to intervene proactively, improving claims outcomes and reducing unnecessary expenditures.
Incentive-Based Risk Reduction
Behavioral analytics can also inform incentive programs that reward policyholders for reducing risk exposure. Examples include:
- Discounts for smart home installations that prevent water or fire damage
- Rewards for participating in emergency preparedness programs
- Real-time notifications for maintenance or environmental hazards
Incorporating human behavior into claims strategy provides a more holistic approach to risk management.
Strategic Use of Big Data and Advanced Analytics
The volume and variety of data available to insurers today create new opportunities for claims optimization. PLRB 2026 underscores the importance of harnessing big data for smarter, faster, and more precise claims decisions.
Integrating Diverse Data Sources
Modern claims strategies rely on integrating multiple sources of data, including:
- Historical claims and loss datasets
- Weather and environmental monitoring systems
- Social media and news analytics for event verification
Synthesizing these sources gives insurers a more comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing loss events.
Real-Time Decision Support Systems
Advanced analytics platforms provide real-time decision support for adjusters, enabling:
- Dynamic evaluation of damage severity and coverage applicability
- Predictive loss modeling to anticipate claim outcomes
- Automated recommendations for settlement amounts and repair strategies
These tools empower claims professionals to act decisively and accurately, improving operational efficiency and policyholder satisfaction.
Cross-Industry Collaboration in Claims Management
The increasingly complex claims environment requires collaboration beyond traditional insurance boundaries. PLRB 2026 encourages partnerships with diverse sectors to strengthen claims strategies.
Collaborating with Construction and Engineering Experts
Integrating construction and engineering expertise allows adjusters to:
- Assess structural integrity and repair feasibility
- Develop precise cost estimates for restoration
- Identify innovative building materials and techniques that reduce future losses
These collaborations ensure claims decisions are grounded in technical accuracy and practical feasibility.
Partnerships with Technology Providers
Collaboration with technology vendors enhances the ability to leverage AI, predictive analytics, geospatial intelligence, and automated workflows. Benefits include:
- Faster data processing and insights generation
- Improved integration of cutting-edge tools into claims operations
- Enhanced ability to scale responses during large-loss events
Fostering cross-industry partnerships enables insurers to maintain a competitive edge and respond effectively to emerging challenges.
Preparing for PLRB 2026: Actionable Steps for Insurers
Finally, organizations looking to unlock the full potential of PLRB 2026 should take deliberate steps to prepare strategically.
- Assess Current Capabilities: Review internal claims processes, technology platforms, and workforce expertise to identify gaps.
- Invest in Advanced Training: Equip adjusters with knowledge in emerging risk areas, technological tools, and customer engagement strategies.
- Integrate Predictive Tools: Deploy analytics, AI, and geospatial intelligence to inform risk assessment and claims decision-making.
- Develop Sustainability Programs: Align claims practices with environmental responsibility and encourage policyholder participation.
- Foster Collaboration: Build cross-functional teams and partnerships with industry experts to strengthen claims outcomes.
These actionable steps ensure that insurers are not only aligned with the insights of PLRB 2026 (learn more at patriotclaims.com/plrb-2026) but also positioned to implement innovative, future-ready claims strategies.
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Fraud Detection and Claims Integrity
Fraudulent claims remain a major challenge in property and casualty insurance, causing financial losses and inefficiencies. PLRB 2026 underscores the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in detecting, preventing, and managing fraud.
AI-Driven Fraud Detection
Unlike traditional manual methods, AI analyzes large datasets to identify anomalies and suspicious patterns early. AI models can:
- Examine historical claims to detect fraud indicators
- Spot inconsistencies in submitted information, documents, or images
- Flag unusual claim activity based on frequency, timing, or location
This reduces false positives while speeding up the detection of genuine fraud.
Predictive Analytics for Risk Profiling
AI enables insurers to anticipate potential fraud before claims arise by:
- Assessing fraud likelihood from policyholder behavior and trends
- Evaluating environmental, demographic, and property risk factors
- Informing risk-adjusted pricing or verification for higher-risk claims
This proactive approach strengthens claims integrity and minimizes unnecessary payouts.
Automating Investigations
AI automates investigative tasks, improving accuracy and efficiency:
- Cross-referencing documents with third-party databases
- Analyzing images and videos for tampering
- Generating detailed investigative reports for adjusters
This allows human investigators to focus on complex cases while accelerating claims processing.
Enhancing Compliance and Audit Readiness
AI ensures consistent documentation, tracks audit trails, and generates regulatory insights, mitigating legal risks and maintaining transparency.
Conclusion
PLRB 2026 is more than a benchmark event—it is a call to action for the insurance industry to embrace new strategies, technologies, and approaches to claims management. Insurers can position themselves for success in an evolving market when they understand emerging risks, leverage technological innovations, and prioritize both efficiency and policyholder satisfaction.
The insights, tools, and research provided by PLRB 2026 empower claims professionals to make informed decisions, implement proactive strategies, and drive innovation across the industry. As the claims environment continues to evolve, those who adopt these strategies will be best positioned to optimize outcomes, reduce losses, and enhance the overall value delivered to policyholders.