Signs You Need a Public Adjuster

Filing an insurance claim for property damage is stressful and time-consuming, especially if you don’t know a whole lot about the insurance claim process. What’s even worse is, you could make mistakes that lower your claim payout and not even know it! That’s where public adjusters come in! 

Did you know insurance claim professionals exist to help you from feeling this added stress? Known as Public Adjusters, these claim professionals will also make sure you are getting fairly and accurately paid by your insurance company. 

Public Adjuster vs. Insurance Adjuster

Before we dive into the most common signs you need the help of a Public Adjuster, it’s important for you to know how they are different from insurance adjusters. 

After filing a property damage claim, your insurance company will assign you an insurance adjuster. They will review the property damage,  decide how much is covered, and how much your insurance will payout. This person works for your insurance company, and their priorities lie with them.

A Public Adjuster is a third party claim professional who works for you, the policyholder. We act on behalf of your best interests to ensure the claim is filed and paid correctly. Our priorities lie with you.

While these roles seem similar, they are, in fact, very, very different. Often, the policyholder with a claim does not have the knowledge or experience needed to know if the insurance adjuster is being fair or adjusting the claim accurately. This can mean claims are settled for less than what is owed simply because the policyholder didn’t know what to look at or what questions to ask. Choosing to work with a Public Adjuster means you’ll not only have an expert on your side, but you’ll save time, energy and ensure you get fair claim payment. 

Do You Need A Public Adjuster For Your Property Damage Claim? 

Filing a property damage insurance claim means more than just getting in touch with your insurance company. You have to prove damages and create an inventory of your possessions. It is up to you, the insured, to prove what the company owes you. You also need to calculate additional items like removal, loss of income, cost of any temporary locations, any additional living expenses. 

So how do you know when you might need the help of a professional Public Adjuster? Keep an eye out for these warning signs.

1. You Are Overwhelmed By The Insurance Claim Process

It is hard enough to go through a catastrophic event like a fire, flood or severe weather damage to your home or business. Adding insurance claim complexities on top of that can make going through the recovery process exponentially harder. If you are overwhelmed with your claim, it might be time to reach out to a Public Adjuster for help. 

2. Your Insurance Company Is Not Moving Quick Enough 

The road to recovery starts with payment from your insurance company. If they are taking longer than expected, are requiring extra documents or inspections, or they are non-responsive, that can delay when you can get started on repairs. If you find yourself in this position, it might be in your best interest to get help from a Public Adjuster. 

3. Your Business Suffered Damage & Has Suffered A Loss In Income

Your insurance policy may include additional coverage for certain events that would cause a “business interruption” and result in a loss of income. These types of policies are complicated. To make sure you receive all that is entitled to you under your policy, it is best to contact a professional who can review your claim.

4. Your Insurance Company Has Denied Your Claim

Insurance companies can deny claims for several reasons, but these decisions usually stem from a lack of documentation, inaccurate property assessments, and misinterpretation of what the policy covers. If your property damage claim has been denied and you feel coverage is owed, you should reach out to a professional ASAP.

5. Your Insurance Company Has Underpaid Your Claim

If you receive a settlement offer that is less than what is needed to repair or replace damaged property, you should seek help from a qualified claims professional ASAP. 

If you are experiencing any one of these five situations, or if you have questions about your property damage insurance claim, we are here to help.  At Alpha Public Adjusters, we know that filing an insurance claim can be stressful and time-consuming. We are proud to offer policyholders expert-level support and guidance through complex insurance claims to reduce stress and help the process to recovery start sooner. Get in touch with us today to learn more and get a free claim review. Follow Alpha Public Adjusters on Facebook for more tips and information on how to deal with property damage claims.