When one suffers a property loss, many people hire Roofers acting as Unlicensed Public Adjusters to assist with their claim.
In many cases this is exactly how roofers solicit their business by offering people a “free roof”. If you are ever approached by a roofer or contractor pitching you this way, be careful, they are acting as an Unlicensed Public Adjuster! A public adjuster or attorney are the only ones properly licensed and allowed to assist you with your claim. Public Adjusters and Licensed Contractors are both professionals at their trade, it is when either party crosses the line that there is trouble.
Roofers, Contractors and Public Adjusters all play a critical role in the event that a property owner suffers a loss. The problems arise when the lines get crossed. Public Adjusters do NOT do property repairs and a Contractor should never attempt to advise a client and negotiate on their behalf in times of an insurance claim. Learning how to navigate insurance claims as Public Adjusters do is a lifelong, full-time progressive learning type of business…there is a lot to know and the claims environment is constantly evolving.
For a roofer or contractor to state that they will assist you through the claim process is not legal. On a very simple claim they may get away with it with no harm done (unless they get caught). However, there are many instances where damage can be done that can not be fixed. An example is when a roofer advises a client to go through the appraisal or mediation process, he may know roofing but what about all of the interior damages, did they properly adjust for all of that? Do they truly know what you are entitled to under your particular policy? Do they know all of your other coverages and what may be available?
In the event that you suffer a loss and feel that you want representation there are only 2 options. Hire a reputable licensed Public Adjuster for roof leak claim or retain competent legal counsel.
