When disaster strikes your home or business—whether it’s a fire, flood, storm, or other damage—filing an insurance claim can be overwhelming. Understanding the complex terms of your policy and negotiating with your insurance company can leave you frustrated, especially if the insurer offers a settlement that doesn’t cover your losses. This is where a Public adjuster can help.

A public adjuster is a licensed professional who works on behalf of policyholders, not insurance companies. Their role is to assess your damages, file your insurance claim, and negotiate to secure the highest possible settlement for you.

In this article, we’ll explore what a public adjuster does, how they differ from other types of adjusters, and when you might want to hire one.

What Is a Public Adjuster?

A public adjuster is an independent insurance claims professional who represents you, the policyholder, during the claims process. Unlike insurance company adjusters—who work for the insurer and aim to protect its interests—a public adjuster advocates solely for the policyholder’s best interests.

Their primary responsibilities include:

  • Evaluating Property Damage: Conducting a detailed inspection of your home or business to assess the extent of the damage.

  • Reviewing Your Insurance Policy: Understanding the coverage, exclusions, and limits of your policy to determine what you’re entitled to claim.

  • Documenting Losses: Compiling evidence such as photos, repair estimates, and a detailed inventory of damaged belongings.

  • Filing the Claim: Preparing and submitting the necessary paperwork to your insurance company.

  • Negotiating with the Insurance Company: Working to maximize your payout by negotiating a fair settlement on your behalf.

Types of Adjusters: How Public Adjusters Differ

There are three main types of adjusters in the insurance industry:

  1. Company Adjusters:

    • Employed directly by the insurance company.

    • Their job is to protect the insurer’s interests and minimize the payout.

  2. Independent Adjusters:

    • Contracted by insurance companies but not directly employed by them.

    • They work on behalf of insurers and follow the same goal of minimizing claims payouts.

  3. Public Adjusters:

    • Hired by policyholders to represent their interests.

    • Their goal is to secure the maximum payout based on the terms of your policy.

When Should You Hire a Public Adjuster?

You may want to consider hiring a public adjuster in the following situations:

  • Large or Complex Claims: If your home has suffered extensive damage, such as after a fire, hurricane, or flood, a public adjuster can help ensure that every aspect of the damage is properly assessed and compensated.

  • Underpaid or Disputed Claims: If you’ve already filed a claim and believe the insurance company’s offer is too low, a public adjuster can review the settlement and negotiate a higher payout.

  • Lack of Time or Expertise: Filing an insurance claim can be time-consuming and complicated. If you’re unsure about how to navigate the process, a public adjuster can handle the details for you.

  • Denied Claims: If your claim has been denied, a public adjuster can investigate the reason and potentially help overturn the denial.

Benefits of Hiring a Public Adjuster

  1. Maximized Settlement:
    Public adjusters are skilled negotiators who know how to interpret insurance policies and accurately assess damages. Studies show that policyholders who hire public adjusters often receive significantly higher settlements than those who handle claims on their own.

  2. Expert Guidance:
    Insurance policies can be confusing, with complex language and hidden exclusions. A public adjuster can help you understand your coverage and file your claim correctly.

  3. Time Savings:
    Filing and managing a claim can take weeks or even months. A public adjuster handles the paperwork, inspections, and negotiations, freeing you up to focus on other priorities.

  4. Advocacy:
    Insurance company adjusters work for the insurer. A public adjuster works for you, ensuring your interests are protected throughout the claims process.

  5. Reduced Stress:
    Dealing with property damage is stressful enough. By handling the claims process for you, a public adjuster can help ease your burden during a difficult time.

How Public Adjusters Are Paid

Most public adjusters work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive a settlement. Their fee is typically a percentage (usually between 10% and 15%) of the final settlement amount. This payment structure aligns their interests with yours, as they are motivated to maximize your payout.

How to Choose the Right Public Adjuster

When hiring a public adjuster, consider the following tips:

  1. Check Licensing: Ensure that the adjuster is licensed in your state.

  2. Look for Experience: Choose an adjuster with a proven track record in handling claims similar to yours.

  3. Read Reviews: Check online reviews, testimonials, and references from past clients.

  4. Understand the Fee Structure: Make sure you fully understand how the adjuster will be paid and what percentage of your settlement they will take.

  5. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about their process, experience, and strategy for handling your claim.

The Difference a Public Adjuster Can Make

Hiring a public adjuster can be the difference between a lowball settlement and the compensation you need to fully recover. Whether you’re dealing with a minor insurance claim or a major loss, having an experienced advocate on your side can make the process smoother, less stressful, and more financially rewarding.

Conclusion

Filing a homeowners or business insurance claim can be a challenging process, especially when dealing with large losses or disputed claims. A public adjuster can be a valuable ally, helping you navigate the complexities of your policy, maximize your settlement, and protect your financial future.

If you feel overwhelmed by the claims process or believe your insurer isn’t offering a fair payout, consider reaching out to a licensed public adjuster. They’ll work tirelessly on your behalf, ensuring that you get the compensation you deserve.