How to define an excellent Public Adjuster

The best source to find an excellent public adjuster is through the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters. NAPIA will provide recommendations in all states that have licenses for public adjusters. An Public Insurance Adjuster is the only type of adjuster qualified to represent the insured party in the event of a property loss. There are currently 43 states and the District of Columbia require an adjuster to be licensed representing the insurer.

A trained public insurance adjuster will act as your advocate, and help you navigate through the maze of insurance so you can collect the amount due to you under your insurance policy. There are a few steps that must be completed before you can be paid by the insurer. These include valuing the loss, presenting it to the insurer and making a settlement. Insurance policies are complex and conditional, full payment for the loss is not guaranteed.

Public adjusters can help identify the coverages and the causes of the loss to evaluate the carrier's offer or denial.

After a fire or other disaster, victims often get besieged by offers and inquires from general contractors and public adjusters, as well as other companies offering to help. This is normal. If you're being contacted doesn't mean they are doing something wrong. But, it is important to be aware and conduct your due diligence prior to signing up for their services.

If the public adjusters aren't affiliated with NAPIA, (National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters) be aware.. They might not have the legal or insurance expertise to effectively represent you. Here are some warning indications:

1. They make huge promises but do not offer any guarantees.

2. Their fees are outrageous. Most legit Public Insurance Adjusters fees range between 5% to 12 percent, and average around 10%. Certain public adjusters charge more for smaller claims, or when they are employed midway through the process of settling claims.

3. If you are pressured to make a quick decision then run. Professional PAs are aware that the choice to have someone represent you in order to get your home and life back together is a momentous one. It is not one that should be taken quickly. It could be one of the most expensive decisions you make in your lifetime. Make sure you take your time and be sure you are at ease with the adjuster you are hiring.

4. Go to their website and address. If they don't possess anything other Claims than an official business card, be very wary. If all they have is a PO box this may be another red flag.

5. It is usually better to hire someone local. Someone who is familiar with the local market for housing and rebuilding costs, who understands the strengths of the community and how to use these resources. A locally based PA may also have worked with representatives of the major insurance firms in the region and may be in a position to cut through a lot of the bureaucracy and red tape in order to make sure that you receive what you owe to you more quickly.

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