What is an Insurance Adjuster?
An insurance adjuster, also known as a field adjuster, is a person who works for an insurance company and is responsible for examining property damage and determining the monetary value of the damage. They do this by providing a written estimate of damage with photographs and is supposed to include all the damage to your property.
It is important to understand that insurance adjusters in West Palm Beach work on behalf of the insurance company, not the policyholder and can either be in-house or a third-party contractor.
An insurance adjuster does not have the authority to make coverage or payment decisions and should not favor once side or the other. However, the bottom line is that they are paid by and work for the insurance company and that is who provides them with the majority of their work.
Often times, the insurance adjuster may tell you what they are going to write in their report, and when you receive the report, the insurance company may have made changes that are unknown to the insurance adjuster. This limits your claim payment.
Choosing a Public Adjuster
When you file an insurance claim, you want to have your interests represented in the claim, not just the insurance company’s interest. A public adjuster, sometimes referred to as an insurance adjuster or private adjuster, will do just that and review your policy, inspect the damage and be present for all inspections with the insurance company.
They will also properly document and photograph the damage, prepare and submit a detailed estimate of the damage in addition to any forms and documentation requested in support of your claim. Due to their knowledge and experience, they will also comply with your policy conditions and post loss requirements within the time frame required.
A public adjuster is an expert that works solely for the policyholder and protects your interest. If you want the proper settlement of your claim, your best option is to hire a public adjuster.
What are Some Red Flags that an Insurance Adjuster Does Not Have Your Best Interest in Mind?
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Delaying your insurance claim
- Refusal to negotiate your claim
- Asking trick questions
- Denying your claim
Of course, not all insurance adjusters in Fort Lauderdale do these types of things. Understanding the laws, what to expect, and choosing a public adjuster, will improve your chances of obtaining a fair claim settlement.
Do I Need to Accept the Insurance Adjusters Offer?
No. If you feel that you are not getting a fair appraisal of your property damage, you should always get a second opinion. Remember, you have the option to contest their offer and obtain a different estimate from a public adjuster.
When Would I Need a Public Adjuster?
If the insurance adjuster in Boca Raton has undervalued the amount of damage and repairs to your property, public adjusters can help. With unbiased eyes evaluating your claim and damage, a professional and knowledgeable public adjuster will provide you with a more accurate value of the loss.
Can I Request a New Adjuster?
You can always request a new insurance adjuster in South Florida. However, the insurance company might not be willing to accommodate you. This is why we recommend contacting an independent public adjuster for an objective review and appraisal of your claim.
Do You Need an Unbiased Appraisal for Your Insurance Claim?
Reliant Insurance Adjusters offers public adjuster, appraisal and umpire services to help you secure a fair settlement for your claim. Get in touch with our team today to learn more.
Karen Schiffmiller, CPIAU
Reliant Insurance Adjusters LLC 7777 Glades Road, Suite 100 Boca Raton, FL 33434 (561) 288-6434 Ext. 2
|
Scott Scovin, CPIAU
Reliant Insurance Adjusters LLC 7777 Glades Road, Suite 100 Boca Raton, FL 33434 (561) 288-6434 Ext. 1
|
