Chubb Deploys Commercial Loss Prevention Technology To Help Homeowners "Spot" Water Damage and Fire Risks
WARREN, NJ, October 3, 2006 - The Chubb Group of Insurance Companies has launched Masterpiece® HomeScan, a complimentary infrared thermography service to help its homeowners policyholders "spot" moisture and electrical hotspots
that, if left undetected, could lead to severe water damage and fire losses. Chubb's home appraisal staff will use state-of-the-art
infrared cameras to scan walls and ceilings. The cameras also can help detect poorly insulated areas, which can result in
higher heating and cooling costs and bursting frozen water pipes.
"This unique technology allows us to help detect problems that are developing behind walls before they result in devastating
losses to lives and property," said Scott Spencer, senior vice president, Chubb & Son, and worldwide appraisal manager, Chubb
Personal Insurance. "In addition, the technology can help reduce repair costs by pinpointing the problem instead of knocking
down huge sections of the wall or ceiling."
Previously used to inspect the buildings and equipment of Chubb's commercial customers, the infrared cameras are now being
used in high-valued homes. The cameras register different surface temperatures and visualize these "thermal anomalies" in
a variety of colors. A cooler temperature may indicate missing insulation (a common precursor to burst pipes) or a wet spot.
A hot reading may indicate an electrical hot spot, a potential cause of fire.
The service is available through Chubb Personal Insurance's Appraisal Department at no extra cost to Chubb's homeowners policyholders.
In addition to helping customers document the unique features of their homes and recommending coverage limits commensurate
with rebuilding costs, Chubb's appraisers advise homeowners on ways to help reduce the potential for loss, damage or harm
to their home, possessions and family members. The Appraisal Department also provides homeowners with access to the Masterpiece Protection Network, more than 1,600 home repair and protection specialists throughout the United States, many of whom provide
discounts to Chubb customers.
The member insurers of the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies form a multi-billion dollar organization providing property
and casualty insurance for personal and commercial customers worldwide through 8,000 independent agents and brokers. Chubb's
global network includes branches and affiliates in North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Australia. Chubb is a worldwide
leader in insuring fine homes, automobiles, yachts, antiques and other collectibles, and personal liability. Additional information
on Chubb can be found at www.chubb.com/personal.
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