Top 5 Tips for Choosing the Right Public Adjusting Firm for Your Claim

Public adjusters are trained professionals responsible for processing and advocating insurance claims for their clients. They help individuals and companies get the best possible settlement from their insurance claims. While public adjusters provide many benefits, it’s still vital to partner with one that can deliver as expected.

A good public adjuster should be licensed or registered according to state laws and possess years of experience handling insurance claims. Additionally, they should have fair and competitive pricing and an excellent customer relations team.

How to Hire a Public Adjuster

Here are five things you should do when choosing a public adjusting firm for your insurance claim.

1. Check Whether They Are Licensed

Verifying whether the public adjuster is licensed in your state is essential because you want to get your money without complications — experiencing property damage is enough of a headache. Each state has different licensing requirements, but regulators typically check if the public adjuster has met the educational and professional specifications and complies with the relevant laws. Getting licensed also helps the state monitor the adjuster’s activities to ensure that customers are protected.

Most states have directories that help you verify an adjuster’s licensing. You can also check your state’s Department of Insurance or local insurance commissioner’s office to make the necessary inquiries. The National Association of Insurance Commissioner (NAIC) website is a good starting point.

It’s also important to check if the public adjuster is a member of industrial associations like the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA), United Policyholders of America, or Windstorm Insurance Network (WIND). These associations ensure that the public adjuster complies with strict ethical codes and general best practices. They offer directories with a list of their members.

2. Check Their Experience and Track Record

It’s essential to verify whether the public adjuster has years of experience to perform as advertised. One efficient way to assess their track record is by reviewing references. A good adjuster can provide two or three references and answer your questions.

Ask the references about their experience working with the public adjuster and whether they delivered as expected. It would help if you also asked about their communication skills and client management because you want a partner that is willing to support and keep you updated throughout the process. You may also ask friends and family for recommendations or check the internet for reviews. The public adjuster’s website may also contain testimonials from clients they have worked with.

3. Confirm the Fee Structure

In most cases, disputes arise because of improper communication about the fees and payment structure. Therefore, before you sign any agreement with a public adjuster to make insurance claims on your behalf, ensure there are no hidden charges.

Most public adjusters have a contingency fee that equals a percentage of the monies claimed from the insurer. Others have a flat fee. Regardless of the fee structure, it’s essential to negotiate and include the amount in a written contract. The fee will usually take into account factors like the size, type and complexity of the loss as well as the current status of your claim. If you have already collected some money before hiring the public adjuster, clarify whether that would affect the usual fee structure.

It’s also essential to watch out for adjusters offering small percentages to handle your claim. Sometimes, when the offer is too good to be true, it is too good to be true. As earlier indicated, the size, type and complexity of the loss can impact the cost. However, an extremely low fee is a red flag. It could be that the public adjuster lacks knowledge or experience in the industry or is desperately looking for clients. The possible explanations are endless.

4. Beware of Preemptive Promises

The best public adjusters know that different factors can affect the outcome of claims, so they avoid making preemptive promises. If a public adjuster starts to make guarantees about their services before reviewing your policy and potential loss, consider that a red flag.

Public adjusters should be honest and realistic about what they can achieve and provide sufficient insight about what to expect. It’s acceptable if they reassure you instead of making conclusive claims.

5. Check Their Service Areas

Public adjusters handle many insurance claims, but some only specialize in certain types of damages. For example, some public adjusters only deal with residential insurance coverage, while others do commercial claims. Similarly, some public adjusters have expertise in, for example, fire and water damages but zero experience in vandalism and business interruption.

Fortunately, some public adjusters in the United States provide a wide range of services you can benefit from. If you need clarification about whether the adjuster handles a particular kind of property damage, contact them to find out. It’s crucial to choose a partner with the skills to handle your unique claim.

The Benefits of a Public Adjuster

Here are four reasons you need a public adjuster for your insurance claims:

• Claims expert: Public adjusters process and negotiate insurance claims for a living. They have experience breaking down complex insurance policies and providing the necessary documentation to get the best settlement. Some of the best public adjusters in the U.S. use advanced technology and techniques for accurate damage assessment.
• Quick turnaround: Public adjusters know how to get the job done. They understand the process for making claims and the documentation they need at each stage. This can save you effort, money and time.
• Reduced stress: Filing for insurance claims can be time-consuming and tedious. Adjusters take the load off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on other important things. Some public adjusters also provide restoration services which can help you recover quickly.
• Protection of rights: The law requires insurers to transact fairly, but having a claims expert on your team is advantageous. While public adjusters are generally not legal professionals, they can negotiate claims on your behalf and help you refer matters to attorneys if needed.

When to Hire a Public Adjuster

You should contact a public adjuster immediately if you have a claim. Public adjusters can help you file the necessary paperwork and deal with the insurance company to get what you deserve. Whether the damage relates to a residential or commercial property, you can leverage the expertise of adjusters to assess the damage accurately. It’s best to hire a public adjuster before filing a claim with your insurance company.