That is sound advice about the insurance companies. When Night Owl's hosue burnt to the ground, it took her over a year, if I remember rightly, to document everything she'd owned and lost, with as much detail as possible. They devalued everything based on original price, date of purchase, etc. just as your friend has told you. The insurance company fought payout every step of the way. This after she and her family had been loyal customers for many decades. Good luck.

It used to be in WY one could call the DMV with a license number and find out who it was registered to. If that's possible, I think I would, then go directly to the DA and see if you could light a fire under them to get the cops in gear. Just a thought.:-)