A public adjuster is a licensed professional who works on behalf of policyholders to help them file insurance claims and negotiate settlements with insurance companies. Unlike insurance company adjusters who work for the insurance company, public adjusters work for the policyholders and have their best interests in mind. Public adjusters help policyholders assess the damage, estimate the cost of repairs, and negotiate with the insurance company to ensure they receive fair compensation for their losses. They also help policyholders understand their rights and responsibilities under their insurance policy.
Cost:
Public adjusters typically charge a percentage of the final settlement or payout received by the policyholder. The exact percentage can vary depending on the location and the complexity of the claim, but it usually falls between 5% to 20%. Some states may have regulations that limit the maximum percentage that a public adjuster can charge.
Public adjusters work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if they are successful in negotiating a higher settlement for the policyholder. This fee structure motivates public adjusters to work diligently on behalf of their clients and can potentially result in a higher payout than if the policyholder were to handle the claim on their own. However, it’s also important to weigh the potential benefits of hiring a public adjuster against the cost, as it may not be financially viable in some cases.
Public Adjuster vs. Insurance Lawyer:
A person may want to hire a public adjuster if they are filing an insurance claim for property damage, such as damage caused by a natural disaster, fire, or flood. A public adjuster can help with the claims process by assessing the damage, estimating the cost of repairs, and negotiating with the insurance company to ensure the claim is fully paid out.
On the other hand, a person may want to hire a lawyer if they are involved in a personal injury case or if they need legal representation for a more complex insurance claim. Lawyers can provide legal advice, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent clients in court if necessary.
In general, if the claim involves property damage and the main issue is the amount of the insurance payout, a public adjuster may be the best choice. If the claim involves personal injury, liability, or other legal issues, a lawyer may be the best choice. Ultimately, the decision to hire a public adjuster, a lawyer, or both will depend on the specific circumstances of the case.
