If you experience property damage due to fire or water, you’ll need to file a claim with your insurance company to be reimbursed for damages. Your insurance company will then send someone to evaluate your claims and determine the extent of coverage. This person, known as an insurance adjuster, is hired by your insurance company and therefore represents the best interests of the insurance company (not you, the policyholder).
In this article, you’ll learn what an insurance adjuster is and why you should hire a public adjuster to help you get the maximum settlement you are owed.
What is a Public Adjuster?
A public adjuster represents you, the policyholder. They advocate on your behalf to help you receive the fair settlement you are owed. They negotiate with the insurance company, complete the necessary paperwork, and assist you through the entire claims process.
What is the Difference Between a Public Adjuster and an Insurance Adjuster?
There are several key differences between a public adjuster and an insurance adjuster:
Representation
- Public adjusters are independent and represent you, the policyholder.
- Insurance adjusters are employed by the insurance company and represent their interests.
Knowledge of State Laws
- Public adjusters are extremely familiar with state insurance laws, making it more likely they can help with your claim and get you the fair settlement you are owed for damages.
- Insurance adjusters are sometimes from different states or are not nearly as well-versed in state-specific insurance laws.
Upholding Payment Obligations
- Public adjusters ensure insurance companies fulfill their payment obligations and protect policyholders from potential underpayment.
- Insurance adjusters prioritize the interests of the insurance company and might try to avoid making payments or paying less than what you are owed.
Reducing Stress
- Public adjusters hold Power of Attorney, which means they can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf, making the experience less stressful.
- Insurance adjusters require policyholders to communicate directly with the insurance company, which can be extremely overwhelming and confusing.
When Should I Hire a Public Adjuster?
You should consider hiring a public adjuster if you’ve experienced any of the below:
- You’re unsure about your insurance policy
- You’ve suffered significant property damage or loss
- Your insurance company denies your claim or undervalues your claim
- You want to maximize your claim settlement
- You need someone to advocate on your behalf with the insurance company
- You need expert help documenting and filing your claim
Additionally, as a first-time homeowner, you might need a public adjuster if:
- Your newly purchased home has pre-existing damage not disclosed during the sale
- You encounter unexpected issues during the home inspection
- You experience damage or issues shortly after moving in
- You’re having disputes with your insurance provider related to the home insurance coverage for your property
How Does Hiring a Public Adjuster Work?
Once you contact a public adjuster, they will:
- Negotiate a Fair, Final, and Reasonable Settlement for the Policyholder
- Assess Building Damage
- Provide Licensed and Unbiased Vendors (for work that is needed)
- Review Insurance Policy Coverages & Water Damage Restoration Process
- Evaluate Clients' Compliance Responsibilities
- Investigate and Measure the Extent of the Loss
- Evaluate Replacement Costs and/or Depreciation
- Assemble Business Equipment Claims
- Assemble Support data for Loss of Income Claim
- Prepare Documentation for Advance Payment Request
- Evaluate Microbial Contamination (mold)
- Assess Total Loss Claims and Review Insurance Estimates
Why Should Property Owners Consider Hiring Public Adjusters When Dealing with Property Damage Claims?
As a property owner, you should consider hiring a public adjuster because they work exclusively for your benefit regarding the insurance claim. Public adjusters thoroughly assess the full extent of damage and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve (unlike insurance claims adjusters or independent adjusters, who are hired by the insurance company). Public adjusters can also handle many types of insurance claims (including complex claims).
How Do Public Adjusters Assist Property Owners in the Aftermath of Natural Disasters?
Public adjusters play a crucial role in helping property owners navigate the claims process after natural disasters. They review police reports, assess the damage, and work tirelessly to ensure you (the policyholder) are adequately compensated for your losses.
What Sets Public Adjusters Apart from Insurance Adjusters When It Comes to Handling Property Damage Claims?
Public adjusters are advocates for you (the policyholder), specifically in cases due to fire damage, water damage, earthquake damage, marijuana damage, theft, or vandalism. They work diligently to provide expert assessments, gather evidence, and negotiate on your behalf to maximize your claim settlement. As mentioned, insurance claims adjusters work on behalf of the insurance company.
Can Public Adjusters Help with Questionable Claims and Complex Claims?
Yes, public adjusters are experienced in handling questionable property damage claims and complex claims. They thoroughly investigate, gather evidence, and negotiate skillfully with insurance companies to uphold your rights and secure fair settlements.
At Excel Adjusters, we work for you. We specialize in residential and commercial property loss for water, fire, wildfire, earthquake, flood, and theft. To this day, we have handled over 2,000 damaged property claims. Our highly trained team of professionals identifies, quantifies, and establishes the full extent of your loss with your insurance company.
Our experts relieve you of the intricacies and complex procedures that come with handling claims in English, Korean, Chinese, and Vietnamese throughout the entire process.
