A public adjuster is a state-licensed representative for policyholders whose responsibility is to advise, handle, and submit the claim to the policyholder's insurance company. The public adjuster accomplishes this by working with and negotiating the insurance claim of the claimant. Public adjusters are licensed claim adjusters who represent the policyholder when evaluating and settling an insurance claim.
The majority of public adjusters charge a percentage of the settlement amount. Their primary responsibilities include assessing the damage, preparing an estimate and other claim-related paperwork, reading the insurance policy to determine coverage, and negotiating with the insurance company's claims adjuster.
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A public adjuster will handle your claim and communicate with your insurance company on your behalf. They will ensure that no damage is overlooked and, depending on what they find, you might get a larger insurance settlement to repair the identified damage.
It should be noted that there is a distinction between a general adjuster and a public adjuster. A general adjuster may serve either the insurance company or the policyholder. Public adjusters, on the other hand, strictly represent policyholders.
In a nutshell, public adjusters assist policyholders with new insurance claims, underpaid insurance claims, and denied insurance claims.
However, in situations where you are unable to get the full benefits of your claim despite the help of a public adjuster, know that there's help available. Our Texas attorneys at Voss Law Firm will do whatever it takes to get you all the compensation you deserve. All you have to do is reach out to us at 1-888-614-7730 for a free consultation.
Now that you know who a public adjuster is, let’s talk about the roles of a public adjuster.
Roles of a Public Adjuster
Public Adjusters Examine Existing Insurance Policies
A policyholder has the option to work with an independent claims adjuster rather than the one that their insurance company assigns. In order to assist the policyholder in settling the insurance, the public adjuster must first assess the policyholder's current insurance coverage. This will be beneficial in determining what coverage may potentially be applicable to the policyholder’s claim. The public adjuster will then investigate, provide details, and gather evidence to substantiate the damages and any additional related costs.
Public Adjusters Navigate the Claims Process
Because there are numerous policies that could be relevant and numerous parties that could be involved, the process of filing an insurance claim is difficult. An experienced public adjuster will guide a policyholder through the complex claims process.
Public adjusters take care of the necessary paperwork, expedite policyholder claims, and aid in improving claim recovery for the policyholder. In the event that the policyholder's claim recovery is insufficient, public adjusters have the right to reopen claims and renegotiate settlements.
This usually occurs after the claim has been settled and a discrepancy is found. Now, while the discrepancy is being resolved, the policyholder is protected from the mental strain of directly confronting the insurance company. This gives the policyholder enough time to focus on their family, health, and well-being.
Public Adjusters Can Spot a Dubious Claim.
Not all claims are created equal. Recognizing weak claims is a public adjuster's responsibility, regardless of how insignificant or disputable they are. A policyholder may not understand many of the terms in an insurance policy, so they may think their claim is fully valid. The policyholder should be informed if there are any problems with the claim by the public adjuster.
A public adjuster works directly with the policyholder, not the insurance company, unlike general claim adjusters and other professionals in the insurance sector. Public adjusters can assist you in negotiating an insurance claim that maximizes and expedites your financial recovery while assisting you in navigating the complexities of intricate insurance policies.
Public Adjusters Protect Your Rights As a Policyholder
Having an expert public adjuster who understands the insurance company’s expectations when documenting and valuing your insurance claim gives you an advantage if your claim is denied. It also gives you a third-party resource who can act as a witness in case more aggressive action is required to obtain a just recovery.
Public Adjusters Ensure Faster Resolution of Your Claim
Understanding how to file your insurance claim, process the necessary paperwork, and communicate with your insurance company can help you avoid repeated requests for more information, speed up the claims process, and start your repairs more quickly.
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Public Adjusters Will Help You Save Time
Many businesses and homeowners have more pressing concerns than constantly responding to the insurance company's requests for information and documents. A public adjuster will manage and organize your claim, freeing up your time to deal with claim-related issues.
Are you considering hiring a public adjuster now that you know what they do? Then let's take a look at…
3 Things To Consider When Hiring A Public Adjuster
Verify Any Public Adjuster's Credentials and References
Ask for recommendations from family and associates. Verify that the adjuster is authorized to work in the state where your loss occurred, and inquire about his or her reputation by contacting the Better Business Bureau and/or your state's insurance department.
Avoid Any Public Adjusters Who Put You Under Undue Pressure
Make sure you are not under any undue pressure and, as always, carefully read your contract to ensure that you are aware of everything before you sign.
Understand the Facts Following a Major Disaster
The percentage that public adjusters are allowed to charge may be set by your state's insurance department. Be wary of public adjusters who go door-to-door following a disaster.
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Need Help Resolving a Claim?
If you have suffered damage or loss after a storm in your Texas home and are being treated unfairly by the insurance company, contact an experienced insurance claim attorney to protect your legal rights and help maximize your claim. To learn more, contact The Voss Law Firm, P.C. for a free consultation by using our contact form or by calling our office at 888-614-7730. The Voss Law Firm, P.C. has been protecting policyholder’s rights for the past sixteen years, recovering billions of dollars in settlements for our clients. We do not charge a fee unless we win your case.
