What Is a Public Adjuster?
A public adjuster is a licensed insurance professional who works on behalf of policyholders—not insurance companies—to help manage, prepare, and negotiate property damage claims. They are your advocate in the claims process, ensuring you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to under your policy.
What Does a Public Adjuster Do?
If you’re facing property damage from a storm, fire, water leak, or another disaster, a public adjuster can help by:
- Evaluating and documenting your damage
- Interpreting your insurance policy
- Preparing a detailed estimate for repairs
- Negotiating with the insurance company
- Maximizing your settlement offer
Their job is to level the playing field between you and the insurance company.
Public Adjuster vs. Insurance Company Adjuster
Understanding the difference is crucial:
| Type of Adjuster | Works For | Primary Interest |
| Public Adjuster | You, the policyholder | Maximizing your claim payout |
| Insurance Adjuster | Insurance company | Minimizing the payout, protecting insurance company |
Benefits of Hiring a Public Adjuster
Here are the top advantages of working with a public adjuster:
- Higher settlements than filing on your own
- Less stress handling paperwork and negotiations
- Expertise in policy language and coverage
- Representation during inspections and disputes
- Support throughout supplemental or denied claims
Do You Need a Public Adjuster If You Already Filed a Claim?
Yes — you can hire a public adjuster even if your insurance claim has already been filed. Here’s how they can still help:
- Claim Review: They evaluate your current claim and insurance offer
- Supplemental Filing: They identify missed damage or underpaid areas and file supplements
- Reopening Claims: If you received a low or denied offer, a public adjuster can dispute the outcome
- Ongoing Advocacy: They take over communication with your insurer, allowing you to focus on recovery
What to Expect When Working with a Public Adjuster
The process typically includes:
1. Free Consultation
They assess your damage and policy to see if you have a valid claim.
2. Damage Documentation
Your adjuster gathers photos, videos, estimates, and relevant paperwork.
3. Claim Submission
They prepare and submit a professional claim package to your insurance provider.
4. Insurance Negotiation
They work directly with the insurer to push for a fair and full settlement.
5. Settlement & Payout
Once an agreement is reached, your adjuster helps with check processing, especially if a mortgage company is involved.
When Should You Hire a Public Adjuster?
Consider hiring a public adjuster if:
- Your property damage is significant
- You feel overwhelmed by the claims process
- You’re unsure about your policy coverage
- Your claim is delayed, underpaid, or denied
- You want a professional to handle everything on your behalf
Need Help? Contact The National Adjusters Group
At The National Adjusters Group, we specialize in guiding policyholders through the complex insurance claims process. Whether you’re starting fresh or disputing an existing claim, we’re here to protect your interests and maximize your outcome.
Contact us today to learn more about what a public adjuster can do for you—and why hiring one might be the smartest step in your recovery process.
