Most of us have invested our hard-earned money and lifelong savings into property and our belongings. That’s why we buy an insurance policy for them in case of an unfortunate event.
But have you ever experienced an insurance claim process?
Dealing with an insurance claim can be a tiring and challenging process. Policyholders frequently find themselves at odds with insurance companies, particularly when it comes to reaching a consensus on claim compensation..
This is where a public adjuster comes in.
What Is a Public Adjuster?
A public adjuster is a licensed insurance professional who works exclusively for policyholders, not the insurance company. They’re experts in insurance policies, claim documentation, and negotiation with insurance companies. Public adjusters advocate for policyholders, ensuring fair compensation for their losses.
What Does a Public Adjuster Do?
Public adjusters play a crucial role in the insurance claims process. Their responsibilities include:
1. Claim assessment: Public adjusters assess the extent of the damage or loss and review the insurance policy to determine the coverage and limitations.
2. Documentation: They gather all necessary documentation and evidence to support the claim, including photographs, estimates, and expert opinions.
3. Claim preparation: Public adjusters help properly compile and submit all of the necessary claim information to the insurance company.
4. Negotiation: They negotiate with the insurance company to secure the maximum settlement amount for the policyholder.
5. Advocacy: Public adjusters act as advocates for policyholders throughout the claims process.
Why Should You Hire a Public Adjuster?
1. Expertise:
Public adjusters bring a wealth of expertise that can be a game-changer when dealing with property damage insurance claims.
They have the experience needed to efficiently decipher complex policy language, identify potential coverage areas, and recognize any limitations or exclusions that may apply to your claim.
Moreover, public adjusters possess the skill and experience to comprehensively assess your loss’s full extent. By conducting a thorough evaluation, public adjusters can guarantee that your claim considers the complete scope of your loss.
2. Maximized claims:
Negotiation is fundamental to the claims process, and they advocate on your behalf to secure the maximum claim.
Insurance companies often employ various tactics to minimize payouts. Public adjusters are well-prepared to counter them effectively.
Public adjusters know how to properly present your claim to the insurance company. They gather all the necessary documentation to support your claim to build a robust case, making it more challenging for the insurance company to deny or undervalue your claim.
3. Time and stress savings:
Dealing with insurance claims can be a time-consuming and stressful process. Policyholders often feel exhausted while dealing with various responsibilities and the intricacies of the claim process.
Public adjusters streamline each aspect of handling a claim. This not only saves you valuable time but also minimizes the frustration associated with dealing with insurers.
4. Avoiding mistakes:
Making errors or omissions with your insurance claim can be costly. Even minor mistakes in documentation or presentation can lead to claim denials or underpayments. Public adjusters pay acute attention to detail and are aware of common mistakes a policyholder may encounter. They can help you avoid these pitfalls and make sure that your claim is complete, accurate, and fulfills all necessary requirements.
5. Ethical advocacy:
One of the best reasons to hire a public adjuster is their commitment to ethical claim handling. Unlike insurance company adjusters, whose loyalty often lies with their employer’s interests, public adjusters are dedicated to advocating for your best interests. They prioritize your needs and financial well-being above all else.
They act as your advocate, with a public adjuster, you have a trusted ally who is wholly devoted to serving your needs, allowing you to face the claims process with confidence and peace of mind.
6. No upfront fees:
You typically won’t have to worry about upfront fees.
This arrangement is particularly beneficial for policyholders who may be facing financial strain due to the loss or damage covered by their insurance claim. You can enlist a public adjuster’s services without making any initial payments.
Public Adjusters vs. Insurance Company Adjusters
While public adjusters and insurance company adjusters share the same job title, their roles and motivations differ significantly:
Public adjusters are independent professionals who work exclusively for policyholders. They are motivated to secure the highest settlement possible for their clients, as their fees are often contingent on the claim’s success.
Choosing a public adjuster over relying solely on your insurance company’s adjuster can lead to a far more equitable resolution of your claim.
How to Find the Right Public Adjuster?
Finding the right public adjuster is crucial to the success of your insurance claim. Here are some tips on how to find a reputable public adjuster:
1. Check licensing: Ensure that the public adjuster is licensed in your state, as regulations vary.
2. References: Ask for references or read reviews from previous clients to gauge their reputation and success rate.
3. Experience: Inquire about their experience handling claims similar to yours and their knowledge of your specific type of insurance policy.
4. Fee structure: Understand their fee structure, which is typically a percentage of the claim payout, and make sure it aligns with your expectations.
5. Communication: Choose a public adjuster who communicates effectively and keeps you informed throughout the process.
Conclusion
A public adjuster can be your most valuable ally when navigating the insurance claims process. They bring expertise, advocacy, and a commitment to ethical claim handling that ensures you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.
By understanding the role of a public adjuster and making an informed choice when hiring one, you can significantly improve your chances of a successful insurance claim outcome. Don’t let the complexities of the insurance world leave you under-compensated; consider hiring a public adjuster for ethical insurance claim handling.
Stephanie Corona is a senior public adjuster and the co-founder of ClaimsMate Adjusters, LLC. She possesses expertise in assessing policies and challenging erroneous insurance company decisions. For over 20 years, she’s been working as a public adjuster, advocating for policyholders. Using her experience as an appraiser and building consultant, she has helped several people navigate the complex landscape of insurance avoiding pitfalls. Stephanie also believes in pursuing lawsuits as the final option, aiming to solve claims disputes through other faster and cost-efficient methods. Besides being a professional adjuster, she is also an educator, having trained more than 40 individuals in public adjustment in Texas alone.
Author’s Bio
Stephanie Corona is a senior public adjuster and the co-founder of ClaimsMate Adjusters, LLC. She possesses expertise in assessing policies and challenging erroneous insurance company decisions. For over 20 years, she’s been working as a public adjuster, advocating for policyholders. Using her experience as an appraiser and building consultant, she has helped several people navigate the complex landscape of insurance avoiding pitfalls. Stephanie also believes in pursuing lawsuits as the final option, aiming to solve claims disputes through other faster and cost-efficient methods. Besides being a professional adjuster, she is also an educator, having trained more than 40 individuals in public adjustment in Texas alone.
