Many people have questions about Public Adjusters and how they may be able to help, here we try to answer some of the most common questions we hear.
If you have recently suffered a loss to your property and are filing a claim or have already filed a claim you are probably starting to question how the process is going to go. Is it going to be as easy as they make it seem on TV? Can I just say the jingle and everything is fine? Is my insurance company on my side? Am I really in good hands? These are all valid questions and unfortunately, the reality is that you are now entering a business transaction. Just like buying a car or house one side wants to get more while the other side wants to give less. Now, what can you do about it? You may have heard of Public Adjusters from a friend but never thought you would need to use one. This will lead to many questions about Public Adjusters and what they may be able to do for you. We try to answer some of the more common questions here. We welcome your phone calls and always offer a complimentary claims consultation.
Do you have Questions about Public Adjusters? Request a Complimentary Claim Consultation and to discover how a Public Adjusters can assist you!
Q Why would I hire a Public Adjuster?
A Peace of mind! We are here to represent you and your interest in the claim. Unfortunately, insurance companies often times deny claims that should be paid or do not pay enough money on a covered claim. This is not always the case and even when it is it may not be intentional. I know that most adjusters have the best of intentions but sometimes they may be inexperienced or simply trained to see things one way, the way the big insurance company wants it to be seen. As Public Adjusters our number one job is to get you the largest settlement available to you under your policy with the insurance company.
Q Do public adjusters represent the insurance company?
A NO. By state law we as Public Adjusters are not allowed to represent the insurance companies. We can only represent the insuring public.
Q What’s the difference between a public adjuster and an insurance company adjuster?
A The public adjuster is employed by you, the insured. Their function is to represent your interests and ensure that you recover the proper settlement for all of your losses per the terms of your insurance policy. The insurance company’s adjuster works for the insurance company and is responsible to protect their interests throughout the claim.
Q How do Public Adjusters get paid?
A Public Adjusters typically work on a contingency basis which equals a small percentage of any money recovered by the insurance company.
Q My Insurance Company asked for 3 Contractor estimates, can’t I do this myself if I get these estimates?”
A NO! This is NOT required under any policy that I have seen to date and I do not recommend it. In the event of a loss it is best to employ a Reputable Public Adjuster that knows what the policy will cover and what it takes to get your property back to its pre-loss condition. Many contractors will provide you with a competitive bid to make repairs but not necessarily get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
Q If I already cashed my checks does that mean there is nothing I can do?
A No. In most cases we can reopen your file with a supplemental claim. There are many factors involved. Give us a call and we will be happy to offer you a free claim consultation.
Q If I file a claim won’t they just raise my rates?
A Not necessarily. It is not recommended to file a claim every time you spill a glass of water as you may become classified as a nuisance claim maker. Property insurance is typically rated based on your area which is why all homeowner rates increased in Florida after the hurricanes, whether you filed a claim or not. The risk is more related to the area where your property is located and in commercial situations the use of the property. However, it is known that there are databases where claim activity is logged and each insurance company may have their own stipulations based on claim activity of the individual or the property. Ultimately, you buy insurance to protect you in the time of a loss. If you are debating whether you should file a claim or not, please feel free to call and speak with one of our Public Adjusters about your particular situation, we are always happy to help.
Q My insurance company sent me a check, but I don’t think it is enough to fix my property. What should I do?
A Do not do anything before having a qualified Public Adjuster or Attorney take a look at your file. Depending on the way everything is written you may be agreeing to their offer by depositing the check. We do not charge anything to come out and evaluate your particular situation.
