Why You Should Consider a Public Adjuster for Your Claim

What is a Public Insurance Adjuster in Florida?

Navigating the insurance claims process after a significant loss can be challenging. Many policyholders lack the experience needed to adjuster their claims, which is where a Public Insurance Adjuster (PA) can help. Working solely for policyholders, these licensed professionals assess damage, document losses, and negotiate settlements, ensuring policyholders receive fair compensation.

Who Are Public Insurance Adjusters?

Public adjusters differ from insurance company or independent adjusters, who work for the insurance company. Instead, they exclusively advocate for policyholders, handling claims resulting from various events, including hurricanes, fires, and floods. Their goal is to ensure claims are handled accurately and fairly, helping policyholders recover the full benefits available under their policy.

What Do Public Adjusters Do?

Their responsibilities include:

• Damage Assessment: Conducting inspections to document losses.
• Policy Review: Determining applicable coverage under the policy.
• Claim Preparation: Filing claims and ensuring all necessary documentation is included.
• Negotiation: Advocating for the maximum payout allowable under the policy terms.
• Support Throughout the Process: Offering guidance on policyholders’ obligations and next steps post-disaster, such as documenting and mitigating damage effectively.

Do I Need a Public Adjuster?

Public adjusters are particularly valuable because they often secure higher payouts. A 2005 study by the Office of Program Policy Analysis & Government Accountability indicated that the average compensation for hurricane claims in Florida were 747% higher when a public adjuster was involved versus when a policyholder filed the claim themselves.

Should You Hire a Public Adjuster?

A public adjuster can be helpful at various stages of a claim, but it’s most beneficial to involve one early on, especially if:

• The damage is significant or the claim is complex.
• You have had negative past experiences with insurance claims.
• You prefer to avoid handling the insurance process yourself.
• The initial settlement offer from the insurance company seems insufficient.

How Do You Find a Public Adjuster?

To find a reputable public adjuster, start by checking the Florida Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (FAPIA) and National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) websites, which offer a directory of licensed adjusters by location. You can also ask friends, family, or neighbors for referrals. Be sure to research online reviews, confirm licensing, and discuss fee structures before making your decision. Public adjusters charge a contingency fee depending on the claim complexity.

What Should You Expect from Hiring a Public Adjuster?

Hiring a public adjuster allows you to hand off claim-related tasks, an adjuster will:

• Handle the claims process.
• Inspect the damage thoroughly.
• Prepare the claim with detailed documentation.
• Coordinate and communicate with your insurance company.
• Negotiate for payouts.

It’s important to remember that a public adjuster is an advocate on your behalf. Their findings are presented to your insurer, who may still dispute or deny parts of the claim.

Frequently Asked Questions About Public Adjusters in Florida

1. Are Public Adjusters Licensed in Florida?

Yes, public adjusters must be licensed by the Florida Department of Financial Services, complete an apprenticeship, pass exams, and adhere to ongoing training requirements. This strict licensure process ensures public adjusters have the necessary expertise to advocate for policyholders effectively.

2. How is a Public Adjuster Paid?

Public adjusters typically work on a contingency fee basis, charging a percentage of the claim amount recovered.

3. When Should You Hire a Public Adjuster?

Consider hiring a public adjuster if:

• You need help understanding or valuing your claim.
• The claim involves complex issues or large losses.
• You believe your insurer may undervalue or deny your claim.
• You prefer professional assistance throughout the claim process.

4. Can I Hire a Contractor Instead of a Public Adjuster?

While contractors can estimate repair costs and they can performing repairs, they cannot manage or adjust insurance claims under Florida Law. Public adjusters, however, can be experts in the claims process and often consult with contractors for specific repairs but retain primary responsibility for the claim adjustment process.

5. Can a Public Adjuster Reopen a Closed Claim?

Yes. If you believe a prior claim was underpaid or wrongfully denied, a public adjuster can review it to help seek a more accurate settlement.

Conclusion

Public adjusters provide essential services to policyholders facing the complexities of the insurance claims process. They can handle aspects of the claim to help policyholders maximize their recovery and secure fair treatment from insurers. In Florida, public adjusters play a vital role in advocating for policyholders’ rights, which is why hiring a qualified public adjuster can make a substantial difference in your claim’s outcome.