FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

WHAT IS A PUBLIC ADJUSTER?

The Florida State Legislature is responsible for licensing and regulating Public Adjusters to provide assistance to insureds who have suffered losses. The policyholders retain the services of a licensed Public Adjuster to protect their financial interests in the settlement of their insurance claim.

WHAT SERVICES DOES THE PUBLIC ADJUSTER PROVIDE?

Using specialists in all areas of restoration, construction and engineering, the Public Adjuster prepares and presents to the insurance carrier a detailed evaluation of the policyholder's total loss. The claim will be based on the cost to repair or replace the home or business as it existed prior to the loss. Knowing how to prepare a claim is the key to successful negotiation.

WHY IS A PUBLIC ADJUSTER NECESSARY?

The insurance companies retain adjusters who protect their interests. They are well trained to adjust the claim by offering the policyholder a settlement based on the lowest bid submitted by contractors or their own evaluation. The Public Adjuster works on the policy holder's behalf to represent their best interests and get a fair settlement from the insurance company. The policyholder has the right to choose his own contractor and not be limited to the lowest bid.

HOW IS THE PUBLIC ADJUSTER COMPENSATED?

The Public Adjuster's fees are paid by the policyholder. The fee is generally based on a small percentage of the monies recovered from the insurance company. The Public Adjuster's expertise in dealing with the insurance company will clearly justify his fees.