This episode unpacks the role of public adjusters in helping homeowners and businesses maximize their property insurance claims. Learn how adjusters negotiate with insurers, uncover overlooked damages, and ensure policyholders receive the compensation they deserve.
What is a Public Adjuster?
A public adjuster is a licensed insurance professional who represents policyholders in preparing, filing, and negotiating insurance claims on property losses—working solely in your best interest, and negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf.
How is a Public Adjuster different from my insurance company’s adjuster?
Public Adjuster: Advocates for the policyholder, documents damage, values losses, and negotiates with the insurer.
Insurance Company Adjuster: Works for the insurer and assesses damage to determine the company’s payout.
When should I consider hiring a Public Adjuster?
• Complex or large-loss claims (fire, flood, storm damage)
• Disputed claim valuations or delayed payments
• Mistakes or omissions in your initial claim submission
• Lack of time or expertise to document all damage yourself
What services does a Public Adjuster provide?
• Reviewing your insurance policy coverages and exclusions
• Documenting and appraising property damage and loss
• Preparing and submitting the claim package
• Negotiating settlement amounts with the insurer
• Handling correspondence, deadlines, and appeals
How do Public Adjusters get paid?
Most public adjusters charge a fee based on a percentage of the final insurance settlement (commonly 10–20%). They only get paid when you get paid, aligning their incentive with maximizing your recovery.
Is hiring a Public Adjuster worth the cost?
Studies show policyholders who use public adjusters often recover significantly more (sometimes 30–40% higher payouts) than they would on their own, easily offsetting the adjuster’s fee.
Are Public Adjusters licensed and regulated?
Yes—public adjusters must pass state licensing exams, carry errors & omissions insurance, and adhere to strict state insurance department regulations. Always verify their license with your state regulator.
How do I choose the right Public Adjuster?
• Check state license status and disciplinary history.
• Ask for references from past clients with similar losses.
• Review fee structure—ensure it’s transparent and fair.
• Confirm they carry professional liability insurance.
• Look for memberships in recognized associations (e.g., NAPIA).
Can a Public Adjuster help with small or simple claims?
Generally, their expertise shines on medium to large claims where documentation, valuation, and negotiation are complex. For minor claims, the cost may outweigh the benefit—though you can always ask for an initial consultation.
What should I have ready before meeting a Public Adjuster?
• Your insurance policy declarations and endorsements
• Photos or videos of the damage
• Repair estimates or invoices (if available)
• Any correspondence with your insurance company
How long does the Public Adjusting process take?
Timeline varies with claim complexity. Simple claims might wrap up in 4–6 weeks; major property losses can take several months—especially if litigation or appraisal is required.
Can I switch to a Public Adjuster after filing my claim?
Absolutely. You can retain a public adjuster at any stage—even after the insurer has assigned its adjuster. The public adjuster can review and supplement your claim for overlooked or undervalued items.
What happens if the insurer disputes the Public Adjuster’s valuation?
If negotiation stalls, public adjusters often recommend mediation, appraisal (per policy terms), or legal counsel. Their deep knowledge of policy language and loss valuation helps you stand firm on a fair settlement.
Are there any conflicts of interest?
By law, public adjusters cannot represent insurers or contractors for the same loss. Their sole duty is to you, ensuring no conflicts when appraising your property and negotiating your claim.
To find a public adjuster in the U.S., members can click on the following URL from the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA):
https://www.napia.com/find-a-public-adjuster
This directory allows users to search for public adjusters by state and provides profiles of firms and individual members.
Disclaimer: The information provided has had AI-Assistance. We review this information ourselves using human oversight. Mistakes can happen. It’s your responsibility to recheck the details.