If you are a property owner who has recently suffered a loss due to a natural disaster, a fire, a theft, or any other insured event, you may have to file a claim with your insurance company to get compensated for your damage. However, filing a claim can be a complex and stressful process, especially if you are not familiar with the terms and conditions of your policy, the extent and cost of your damage, or the best way to negotiate with your insurer. That’s where public adjusting can help.
Public Adjusting Defined
A public adjuster is a licensed professional who works on behalf of the policyholder to help them file and settle their insurance claim1. Public adjusters can assist you with any type of property damage claim, whether it is for your home, your business, or your personal belongings.
The Process
When you hire a public adjuster, they will handle the entire claim process on your behalf2 such as:
- Visit your property to inspect and document the damage with photos, videos, measurements, and notes.
- Review your insurance policy and coverage limits to determine what is covered and what is excluded.
- Research and apply local codes and standards to ensure compliance and safety.
- Estimate the fair value of your loss using specialized software and databases.
- Prepare and submit a detailed claim package to your insurance company with all the necessary documentation and evidence.
- Communicate and negotiate with your insurance company to obtain the best possible settlement for your claim.
- Answer any questions or concerns you may have along the way.
Benefits of Public Adjusting
Public adjusters can indeed benefit you as a policyholder in several ways:
- Public adjusters can save you time and hassle by taking care of all the paperwork and communication involved in the claim process.
- They can ensure that you receive the maximum compensation for your loss according to your policy terms and conditions.
- PA’s can protect you from being underpaid or denied by your insurance company due to errors, omissions, or disputes.
- It can provide you with professional advice and guidance throughout the claim process.
PA Challenges
Public adjusting can also pose some challenges for you as a policyholder, such as:
- It can cost you money by charging you a fee or a percentage of your claim settlement. The fee may vary depending on the type and size of your claim, but it usually ranges from 10% to 20%1.
- It can delay your claim settlement by adding another layer of communication and negotiation between you and your insurance company.
- It can create confusion or frustration if you are not clear about the role and expectations of your public adjuster.
- It can cause conflict or disagreement between you and your public adjuster if they do not perform their duties properly or ethically.
Public Adjusting Tips
Lastly, to make public adjusting easier and smoother, here are some tips for you as a policyholder:
- Do your research before hiring a public adjuster. Check their license, credentials, experience, reputation, references, and reviews. Make sure they are trustworthy, competent, and compatible with you.
- Read and understand the contract before signing it. Know what services they will provide, how much they will charge, how they will communicate with you, and how they will handle any disputes or issues that may arise.
- Keep copies of all documents related to your claim. This includes your insurance policy, your damage report, your claim package, your correspondence with your insurance company and your public adjuster, and your settlement check.
- Finally, maintain open and honest communication with your public adjuster. Ask questions, share concerns, provide feedback, and follow up regularly.
Public adjusting is a valuable service that can help you file and settle your insurance claim more efficiently and effectively. By following these tips, you can find and work with a public adjuster who will represent your best interests and help you recover from your loss.
Learn more about another facet of the claims handling process: estimating.
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