Insurance Adjusters: When You Need One, What They Do, and How to Hire

Understanding Insurance Adjusters

When you file a property damage claim — whether from fire, water, storm, or other causes — an insurance adjuster evaluates the damage and determines how much the insurance company should pay. But not all adjusters represent your interests.

Understanding the different types of adjusters and when to hire your own can mean the difference between a fair settlement and thousands of dollars left on the table.

Types of Insurance Adjusters

Company Adjusters (Staff Adjusters)

Who they represent: The insurance company

Staff adjusters are employees of your insurance company. They investigate your claim and recommend a settlement amount. While many are fair, their employer's interest is to pay as little as possible.

Independent Adjusters

Who they represent: The insurance company (but as contractors)

Insurance companies hire independent adjusters when they're overwhelmed (after hurricanes, for example) or need specialized expertise. They still work on behalf of the insurer.

Public Adjusters

Who they represent: YOU (the policyholder)

Public adjusters are licensed professionals you hire to handle your claim. They:

Document and photograph all damage thoroughly

Estimate repair/replacement costs using industry-standard software

Negotiate directly with the insurance company on your behalf

Handle all paperwork and communication

Typically get 30-50% higher settlements than policyholders who negotiate alone

Cost: 5-15% of the final settlement (only paid when you receive your settlement)

When Should You Hire a Public Adjuster?

Definitely hire one if:

Claim exceeds $10,000 — The larger the claim, the more an adjuster's expertise matters

Significant structural damage — Fire, flood, collapse, or extensive storm damage

Claim was denied or underpaid — A public adjuster can reopen and renegotiate

You disagree with the insurance company's estimate — Their estimate may miss hidden damage

You don't have time — Claims require extensive documentation and follow-up

You can probably handle it yourself if:

Minor damage under $5,000

Simple, straightforward claim (broken window, minor roof repair)

Your insurance company offers a fair estimate on the first assessment

The Insurance Claims Process

Step 1: Document Everything

Before calling your insurance company:

Photograph and video all damage from multiple angles

Make a list of damaged/destroyed items with approximate values

Keep receipts for any emergency repairs (tarps, boarding up windows)

Do not throw away damaged items until the adjuster has seen them

Step 2: File Your Claim

Contact your insurance company promptly. Most policies require notification within a specific timeframe (30-60 days for many policies, sooner for some).

Step 3: Meet with the Company's Adjuster

The insurance company will send their adjuster to inspect the damage. Be present and:

Point out all damage — don't assume they'll find everything

Provide your documentation

Take notes on what they inspect and say

Ask for a copy of their report

Step 4: Review the Estimate

Compare their estimate with independent repair quotes. If there's a significant discrepancy, this is when a public adjuster can help negotiate.

Step 5: Negotiate and Settle

Most initial offers can be negotiated. Having detailed documentation and professional estimates strengthens your position significantly.

Average Settlement Increases with Public Adjusters

*Data from OPPAGA (Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability)*

Find a Licensed Public Adjuster

Need help with an insurance claim? Daves Leads connects you with licensed public adjusters in your area who will fight for the settlement you deserve.

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