11 Essential Questions to Ask Your Public Adjuster Before Hiring

The world of insurance claims is labyrinthine and intricate, with a myriad of nuances that are difficult to navigate for the uninitiated. Wherever there is complexity, there is a demand for professionals who can traverse these winding pathways. In this insurance maze, one such expert is a public adjuster.

Public adjusters, unlike company or independent adjusters, work exclusively for you, the policyholder. Their role is to represent your interests in a claim negotiation with your insurance company. They ascertain the extent of the loss and damage, prepare an estimate, read the insurance policies to determine coverages, and negotiate with the insurance company's adjuster.

The significance of their role necessitates a careful selection process. Here are 11 essential questions that need to be asked before hiring a public adjuster.

• How long have you been a licensed public adjuster?
  Experience matters. Hiring a novice might cost you more in the long run. Check the public adjuster's license and confirm it with the state's department of insurance.
• What is your education background and professional training?
  The foundation of professionalism is education and training. An adjuster with advanced training or specialized education will be more equipped to handle complex claims.
• What is your specific area of expertise?
  Just as in law or medicine, adjusters can also specialize. If you have a unique or challenging case, it would be better handled by an adjuster with a relevant specialization.
• Can you provide references from previous clients?
  References provide insight into previous work and outcomes. Remember, however, that no one is going to provide a bad reference. Hence, read between the lines and ask probing questions.
• How much are your fees and how are they calculated?
  Costs matter. Public adjusters typically charge a percentage of the claim payout. Understanding the fee structure is crucial before signing anything.
• How will you keep me informed about my claim’s progress?
  Communication is key. Your adjuster should keep you in the loop regarding your claim's progress and should be reachable when you need them.
• What services do you provide?
  Knowing exactly what services are provided can help you avoid any unpleasant surprises later. For example, some adjusters handle only certain parts of the claim process.
• How many claims are you currently handling?
  An adjuster’s workload can impact their effectiveness and availability. An overloaded adjuster may not give your claim the attention it needs.
• What type of insurance claims do you handle?
  Some adjusters specialize in residential claims while others handle commercial claims. Ensure the adjuster has experience with the type of claim you have.
• How will hiring you benefit me?
  The adjuster should be able to clearly articulate the value they bring to the table. This includes ensuring a fair settlement, dealing with the insurance company, saving your time, and reducing stress.
• What is your proposed strategy for my claim?
  This will give you an idea of how the adjuster plans to handle your claim, including their approach to the insurance company, negotiation strategies, etc.

Remember that hiring a public adjuster is as much about the relationship as it is about their expertise. A good adjuster will be a strong advocate, a detailed organizer, a skilled negotiator, and, above all, a trusted guide during a difficult time. It is natural to want to rush the process when dealing with a loss but taking the time to ask these questions can save you a significant amount of money and heartache in the future.

Public adjusters, unlike company or independent adjusters, work exclusively for you, the policyholder.