Earlier this month, Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated parts of the southern United States, leaving billions of dollars in property damage, hundreds of casualties, and thousands helpless. When major disasters like these strike, dealing with insurance claims can be too much for a property owner, and that’s where public adjusters come into play.
This article explores what public adjusters do, why you might consider hiring one, and how they can help ensure that your insurance claims are handled fairly and efficiently.
ServiceMaster Roswell is here for all your storm damage restoration needs in Roswell, GA, and the surrounding areas. Call us at (770) 200-5111 for 24/7 emergency response or request an estimate online.
What is a Public Adjuster?
According to the Georgia Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (GAPIA), public adjusters are professionals who “work on behalf of the policyholder to ensure that their rights are protected and that they receive full and fair compensation from their insurance carriers in the case of an insured loss.”
Unlike adjusters hired by insurance companies, public adjusters work on your behalf to secure the best possible settlement from your insurance policy. Public adjusters understand intricate insurance policies and use their expertise to evaluate property damage, calculate repair costs, and negotiate with insurance companies.
Why Hire a Public Adjuster?
1. Expertise in Insurance Policies and Claims
Public adjusters bring valuable expertise, particularly if you are dealing with a substantial or complicated claim. They understand insurance policies in detail and can interpret the often complex language to your advantage.
2. Maximize Your Settlement
Public adjusters are able to secure a more favorable settlement for you. They meticulously assess the damage and build a comprehensive claim to present to the insurance company, ensuring no eligible damages are overlooked.
3. Save Time
It can be time-consuming and frustrating to file an insurance claim. Public adjusters take on the burden of managing all aspects of your claim, allowing you to focus on recovery and other personal responsibilities.
4. Peace of Mind
Having an expert solely focused on your interests can provide significant peace of mind. Public adjusters advocate for you, ensuring your rights are protected and your claim fairly represented and settled.
How Do Public Adjusters Work?
After being hired, a public adjuster will thoroughly inspect the property to document the extent of the damage and determine repair needs. They then compile detailed documentation about the damage and associated costs, including estimates from contractors and other necessary paperwork.
Public adjusters handle all negotiations with your insurance company, using their expertise to argue for a higher payout based on the evidence they’ve gathered. Once negotiations are complete, they will explain the terms of the settlement to you and ensure that the final agreement is in your best interest.
What to Consider When Hiring a Public Adjuster
Fees
Public adjusters usually charge a percentage of the claim payout, which typically ranges from 5% to 15%. If you have a high-value loss like storm or hurricane damage, the potential increase in claim payout can justify the fee.
Credentials
Always check the credentials and reputation of a public adjuster. They should be licensed in your state and ideally have good reviews or references from past clients. To avoid scams, be cautious of public adjusters who go from door to door after a major disaster.
Contract
Understand all terms outlined in the contract with your public adjuster. Be transparent about the services they will provide and the fees involved.
If you’re facing a complex insurance claim and want to ensure you get the maximum possible settlement, hiring a public adjuster can be a wise decision. Their expertise can make a significant difference in your financial recovery following property damage.
After the insurance call has been made, contact ServiceMaster Roswell right away. We specialize in water and storm damage restoration in Roswell, GA, and the surrounding areas. Dial (770) 200-5111 for 24/7 emergency response or request an estimate online.
