Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that a loss is a difficult process. We hope this FAQ provides you with some answers as to where to go next. Please do not hesitate to contact us if this does not answer all of your questions.
Q: What is a public adjuster?
A: The Georgia Insurance Commisioner defines a public adjuster as
"An independent contractor, licensed by the state of Georgia, who
represents solely, the financial interests of the insured named in
the policy."
Q: What does a public adjuster do?
A: Primarily, a public adjuster documents the loss and negotiaties a
settlement. They take a physical inventory,
obtain all pertinent appraisals and make sure all provisions in
your policy are properly fulfilled. This often involves numerous
steps of which you may know little or nothing, but can make a significant
difference in the amount of the final adjustment.
Q: Can I prepare my own claim?
A: Sure, but it stands to reason that the public insurance
adjuster who has years of experience and training can do so with more
competence than the policyholder.
More specifically, a public insurance adjuster will assist you in the
preparation of inventories, estimates and other factual proofs of loss.
He or she will handle all the necessary details for compiling and filing
claims, as required by the terms of your insurance policies. Your public
insurance adjuster will also confer, on your behalf, with insurance company
representatives and handle all matters essential to a proper and
satisfactory adjustment.
Q: Why do I need help in filing an
insurance claim?
A: The typical fire policy contains hundreds of provisions and stipulations
- various forms and riders that are constantly changing and many complex
details about your requirements in case of loss. Most people do not know
or understand these policy provisions - and most do not realize that the
burden of proof is on them, the policyholder.
Q: In the event of a fire or similar destruction
of property does my insurance pay the entire loss?
A: This depends upon the type and amount of insurance you carry. It also
depends on your expertise or the expertise of your representative, not
that of the insurance company's adjuster. Many insurance policies may
pay more than the amount shown on the declaration page. A qualified expert
working for you can determine everything to which you are entitled.
Q: Who certifies a public adjuster?
A: The insurance commissioner of each state.
Q: How does a public adjuster get paid?
A: Public adjusters get paid a percentage of whatever they recover
for you. The average percentage is 10% of the total recovered. A
public adjuster's fees are based on a percentage of the homeowner's
settlement, so it is in their best interest to conduct a thorough
investigation.
Q: How does a public adjuster find me
after I've had a property loss, such as a fire?
A: Through the media, referrals, on-line services, fire department
dispatching.
Q: Is there anything wrong with a public
adjuster soliciting you?
A: No. Unless, you have had a prior loss, you won't be aware of this
service unless someone shows up at your property or calls you.
Q: Do insurance companies ever
discourage claimants from hiring a public adjuster, and if so, why?
A: This happens all the time. Insurance companies do not want the
insured to be on an even playing field. They want control of the
situation and do not want to deal with someone as or more
knowledgable than they are about the loss process. Insurers are
predisposed to minimize claim payments. Public adjusters are
predisposed to maximize claim payments.