Be Prepared, Be Protected

A public adjuster is a professional claims handler who works on behalf of the policyholder to help them navigate the insurance claims process. They are licensed and trained in the field of insurance and can assist with preparing, presenting, and negotiating claims for losses that may be covered under an insurance policy. Public adjusters help policyholders understand their coverage, assess property damage, and determine fair settlements from insurance companies.

Yes, public adjusters are required to be licensed and insured in the state they practice in. The licensing requirements vary by state, but most require completion of a specific exam and continuing education courses. Many public adjusters have prior experience in the insurance industry, and some may have a background in construction or property management. It’s important to verify a public adjuster’s qualifications before hiring them.

Public adjusters use several methods to determine the value of a claim, including assessing the damage to the property, determining the cost of repairs or replacement, and reviewing the policy’s coverage limits and exclusions. They also consider the insurance company’s claims process, communicate with the policyholder to understand their needs, and negotiate with the insurance company to ensure a fair settlement.

An insurance company adjuster works for the insurance company and is responsible for assessing and valuing the damage to a policyholder’s property. In contrast, the policyholder hires a public adjuster and works on their behalf to assess and value the damage and ensure a fair settlement with the insurance company.

The length of time it takes to settle a claim with a public adjuster can vary based on several factors, including the extent of the damage, the complexity of the claim, and the amount of paperwork and documentation involved. Generally, the public adjuster works to resolve the claim as efficiently and swiftly as possible, but the process can take several weeks to months.

Public adjuster fees vary but are typically a percentage of the total settlement amount the policyholder receives from the insurance company. The fee percentage varies by state but usually ranges from 10% to 20%. It’s important to discuss the fees with the public adjuster upfront and get them outlined in the signed contract.

Suppose the insurance company denies the claim after hiring a public adjuster. In that case, the public adjuster can continue to work with the policyholder to decide whether to appeal the decision or pursue legal action. They can assist with preparing additional documentation and presenting the claim to the insurance company again or work with the policyholder’s attorney if the claim goes to court.

The policyholder is responsible for providing documentation and making decisions about the claim, such as determining the settlement amount they will accept. The public adjuster helps the policyholder understand their options and provides guidance throughout the claims process.

Yes, public adjusters negotiate with the insurance company on behalf of the policyholder to ensure a fair settlement. They work to ensure that the policyholder receives the maximum possible compensation for the damage incurred.

Yes, public adjusters can help with denied or underpaid claims. They can review the insurance policy, assess the damage and the cause of the denial, and help the policyholder appeal the decision to the insurance company. They may be able to find errors in the insurance company’s assessment or help the policyholder document the damage more thoroughly to improve their chances of a successful appeal.