Experiencing property damage can be extremely stressful and frustrating no matter the situation. Homeowners, condominium complexes and business owners all experience a paralyzing effect on the normal operation of their business or personal life at home. Moreover, since property owners don’t necessarily possess the necessary knowledge or experience, managing a complex insurance claim can be very overwhelming. In fact, most don’t even have the time to deal with it. So this is what public adjusters are for and these are just a few of the benefits of hiring a public adjuster.

In short, a public adjuster works for the insured and not the insurer. They work hard to assure the insurance claims process goes smoothly for everyone, especially for the policyholder. As well as defend the insured’s rights and maximize their claims. Read on forward to learn more about the benefits of hiring a public adjuster.

Benefits of Hiring a Public Adjuster

First, Public Adjusters Are Licensed Professionals

Most states require a public adjuster to pass a specialized exam and get licensed in order to operate. In addition, they must also maintain a bond and pass a criminal background check, as well as maintain continuing education. Public adjusters are held to a high ethical standard.

Second, Public Adjusters Can Settle Claims

Only public adjusters, attorneys and policyholders can settle claims. Many general contractors, water-fire restoration companies and accountants engage in the unauthorized practice of public adjusting. This is prohibited by law. In fact, if a contractor is acting as a public adjuster in any manner, for any amount of money or object of value, they could be subject to arrest or charges. Public adjusters are the only authorized party besides attorneys and insureds, permitted to settle claims.

Another of the Benefits of Hiring a Public Adjuster is That They Save You Time

Most homeowners and business people have much more important things to deal with, than the incessant demands for documents and information from the insurance company. For example, they may have to deal with the emotional distress of property damage. And this is besides the everyday chores, which already take up much of our time. Therefore, one of the benefits of hiring a public adjuster is that they will organize and manage your claim for you. And so, consequently minimizing the time you need to spend dealing with the claim.

As Well As Insurance Expertise is Also One of the Benefits of Hiring a Public Adjuster

Insurance policies can be complex documents and can easily be misinterpreted. In fact, insurance companies often make policies ambiguous and difficult to read in order to confuse policyholders. As well as to avoid paying certain types of claims. Public adjusters are experts on policy language and can help you fully understand it. Having someone on your side that is familiar with the language and how insurance policies are enforced can greatly influence the settlement of your claim. Furthermore, public adjusters are also experts on insurance claim processes. So it also helps to have them guiding you through it and even through the proper repair procedures and documenting expenses in case a claims denial occurs.

Even Faster Resolution of Your Claim is Another of the Benefits of Hiring a Public Adjuster

Handling an insurance claim yourself can come with more than a few complications. Corresponding with your insurance company and gathering the necessary paperwork to resolve your claim can be quite time-consuming. And it may even interfere with your other commitments. Moreover, not understanding the language or the paperwork could cause you to commit errors during the process, consequently delaying your claim settlement. Because public adjusters possess the knowledge and expertise to understand and process insurance claims, your claim could be processed faster.

Public Adjusters Also Protect Your Rights as a Policyholder

As we said before, public insurance adjusters work for you, the policyholder. Unlike insurance adjusters, who work for the insurer. Public adjusters have no relationship with the insurance company. In fact, the only time a public insurance adjuster corresponds with the insurance company is when it’s regarding the policyholder’s insurance claim. Therefore, having an expert public adjuster who understands the insurance company’s expectations, when documenting and valuing your claim gives you an advantage. They know your rights and will negotiate your claim accordingly. Moreover, if your claim is denied they will definitely know how to handle it appropriately. It also gives you a third party resource who can act as a witness in case more aggressive action is required to obtain a just recovery.

Ensuring Fair Value for Your Claim is Another One of the Benefits of Hiring a Public Adjuster

The Office of Program and Policy Analysis & Government Accountability (OPAGGA) conducted a study which showed that public adjusters negotiate up to a 747% larger settlements. Thus showing how important it is for property owners to consult with a public insurance adjuster, since they can help maximize the claim as much as possible.

In conclusion, if you look at the bigger picture, using the services of public adjusters is the smartest and most practical decision. You get considerably more from your insurance claim and at the same time, get to avoid spending too much time and energy in the claims process. However, there is usually a fee for their service but if you consider the benefits you get, it’s well worth the expense.

Public Adjusters Are Experts in Estimating Damages

When you file a claim, insurance companies usually send out their own adjusters to prepare an estimate of damages. However, since private insurance adjusters work for the company, their estimate may be much more convenient for your insurer than for you. Public adjusters have the experience to more accurately estimate the cost of your loss. Moreover, although general contractors are good at repairing damages, they are not necessarily good at writing detailed unit cost estimates. This requires a specialized skill, expertise and knowledge.

Public Adjusters Have Past Experience Working for Insurance Companies

Last but certainly not least, public adjusters know the inside and outs of the way the insurance companies work. Therefore, public adjusters expertly use this knowledge for your advantage. In conclusion, there are numerous benefits of hiring a public adjuster to handle your insurance claim. Call AllCity Adjusting today to consult with your next public insurance adjuster!