 When property damage happens, whether from a hurricane, plumbing leak, fire, or roof issue, the insurance claim process can feel overwhelming. That’s exactly when hiring a public insurance adjuster can make all the difference.
A public adjuster works for you, not the insurance company, to make sure your claim is handled fairly and you get the full settlement you deserve. But not all adjusters are created equal. Choosing the right one can directly impact how smoothly your claim goes, and the amount you recover. Here’s what to look for when choosing a public adjuster in Florida: 1. Verify They Are Licensed And Legitimate In Florida, all public adjusters must be licensed by the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS). Always verify their license number before signing a contract. A legitimate adjuster will gladly provide you with proof of licensing and explain your rights as a policyholder. If someone avoids your question or pressures you to sign paperwork right away, that’s a big red flag. ✅ Pro Tip: It's important that they belong to a professional trade association like Florida Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (FAPIA). You can verify a public adjuster’s license directly on the FAPIA website. 2. Look For Experience With Your Type Of Claim Experience matters. Every claim is different whether you have hurricane damage, a fire loss, or water damage, all require different documentation and negotiation strategies. Choose a public adjuster who specializes in your type of property damage and who has successfully handled claims like yours. Ask how long they have been in business and how many claims they have settled in South Florida. 3. Local Knowledge Makes A Big Difference Hiring a local public adjuster in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, or Wellington isn’t just convenient, it’s strategic. Local adjusters understand the area’s building codes, weather patterns, and how insurance companies handle insurance claims in Palm Beach County. They know the unique challenges Florida property owners face from hurricane force winds to plumbing leaks, and can make sure nothing is overlooked on your claim. 4. Check Reviews And References A public adjuster’s reputation tells you everything you need to know. Read online reviews, check Google and social media, and ask for references from past clients. A trustworthy adjuster will have positive feedback and real success stories to share. Don’t be afraid to ask for examples of recent claims they have handled — transparency is key. 5. Communication Is Important Strong communication is one of the best signs you’re working with a professional. Your public adjuster should be responsive, explain things clearly, and keep you updated every step of the way. If you are having difficulty contacting them or they rush through your questions, that’s not a good sign. You want someone to represent you who treats your claim with importance. 6. Understand The Fee Structure Most Florida public adjusters work on a contingency fee, meaning they only get paid when you do. The fee is a percentage of your insurance settlement, and Florida law caps how much a public adjuster can charge. Make sure their fee agreement is in writing and clearly explained as per the requirements of DFS. 7. Honesty, Integrity & Professionalism Is Key The right public adjuster will never make unrealistic promises or pressure you to file a claim you don’t need to file. They will review your insurance policy, be honest about your coverage, and if you have a covered claim, advocate for what you are truly owed for your damage. Integrity is the foundation of this business, and a public adjuster should always put your best interest before their own. A good public adjuster will always conduct themselves in a professional manner, especially when communicating with the insurance company. 8. A True Advocate For You When you hire a public adjuster, you are hiring someone to level the playing field between you and the insurance company. The insurance company has someone to represent them, and you should have someone to represent you. A good adjuster will:
That’s what you deserve — someone who works for you, not against you. Final Thoughts Choosing the right public insurance adjuster can make a world of difference after a loss. Take your time, ask questions, and choose someone with honesty, integrity and experience. If your home or business in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, or Wellington has suffered damage, don’t navigate the claim process alone. A trusted Florida public adjuster can help you get the settlement you deserve, so you can focus on rebuilding, not battling with your insurance company. If you have a new, underpaid or delayed insurance claim, we are here to help. Please contact us here or call (561) 288-6434.
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 At our office, we are often asked about insurance companies that agents recommend. Clients want to know if we’ve dealt with those carriers before, whether they are reputable, and which might be the better choice.
The first step is understanding the difference between admitted insurance companies and surplus lines insurance companies.
What’s even more concerning is that some surplus lines companies now include restrictions that prevent policyholders from hiring a public adjuster to assist with a claim. This means the insurance company has its own adjuster working for them, but you’re denied the ability to hire your own advocate. That’s not just unfair—it’s dangerous. Surplus lines agents should show they have tried to place a client with an admitted carrier first, however, that’s not always what happens. I experienced it firsthand when I was shopping for my parents’ home insurance. The only quote provided was from a surplus lines company—even though I specifically asked otherwise. When I pushed back, we were able to secure a quote from a reputable and admitted carrier. That admitted policy not only offered stronger protections, but it was also more affordable than the surplus lines option. What You Need to Do: 1. Ask Questions. Always ask your agent whether the carrier they are placing you with is admitted or surplus lines. 2. Request Alternatives. Insist on admitted carrier quotes before agreeing to surplus lines. 3. Read the Fine Print. Watch for restrictions that limit your ability to use a public adjuster or seek outside help. 4. Ask About Coverage Limits. For both admitted and surplus lines policies, watch for hidden limits within the policy. For example, $10k water damage limits, Matching of Undamaged Property limits, roof coverage endorsements, etc. Your insurance should protect you, not make things harder when you need to file a claim. Make sure you know exactly what you are purchasing before you sign. If you have any questions or concerns about your insurance policy, or you have an underpaid or delayed property damage claim, we are here to help. Please contact us here or call (561) 288-6434. Maintaining Your Property – Why It’s Important When You File a Property Damage Insurance Claim8/5/2025  Living in South Florida, we are subject to extreme heat and weather events during certain times of the year, so it’s important to maintain your property.
Property maintenance is imperative because it can affect your wallet in a positive or negative way. For example, during the hot days of summer, the use of your air conditioner increases. If your air conditioner is in good working condition, you can benefit from lower utility bills. It can also help avoid water damage to your property from a leak in your air conditioner. Additionally, when your property is well maintained, you are less likely to have any pre-existing damage. In the event you have to file a property damage insurance claim, your insurance policy will not cover pre-existing or long-term damage. Being proactive and fixing small issues before they turn into big ones, is a simple way to avoid costly repairs down the road and may also increase your property value. Routine, preventative, corrective and cosmetic upkeep is a good way to manage and maintain your property. A few common neglected areas can be your roof, hot water heater, balcony, and lighting fixtures. You can catch minor issues before they turn into a major leak, a fire and even mold growth. As public insurance adjusters, we have seen it all and understand the value and importance of property maintenance. If you take care of your property regularly, there will be less of a chance you will have to file an insurance claim. If you do ever need to file an insurance claim, we are here to help. We are dedicated to providing the knowledge, experience, and resources to get you every dollar you deserve for your property damage. If you need a trusted adjuster to determine if your damages are covered by your policy, or you have an underpaid insurance claim, contact us today.  My parents taught me at a young age to be honest and always do the right thing. I live this not only in my personal life, but professionally as well. Honesty and integrity are an integral part of our business. This has not only gained the trust of our clients, but also from the individuals we deal with throughout the entire claim process. The aftermath of property damage, in any form, is stressful, time consuming and can leave you feeling like your life has been turned upside down. It’s important from the start of our representation, that we alleviate that stress for our clients and handle every aspect of the insurance claim. As we do the initial walkthrough of the damages with our clients, we take detailed photos and copious notes to prepare damage repair estimates. We attend every inspection on our client’s behalf and make sure that all deadlines for document submissions are met. This ensures that no stone is left unturned and that you have complied with your duties and requirements in the insurance policy. Communication is key and it’s important to us that we keep our clients informed every step of the way. Even if the claim is under review and there is nothing significant happening, we still provide a status. When communicating with the insurance company, there must always be a mutual respect. After telephone conversations with the insurance company, we customarily follow up with a confirmation email to confirm the details of our conversations. Property damage claims are more difficult now than ever before. Insurance companies are providing less coverage. Some have specific policy limits within the policies by means of an endorsement that you may not know you have. If you are unsure whether or not you have a covered insurance claim, or you have an underpaid or delayed insurance claim, we are here to help. Contact us here.  Finding property insurance with good coverage in Boynton Beach, Florida isn’t so easy, but your insurance agent should know the details of the policies they are selling. More specifically, what’s covered in the policy, if there are limits, and what is excluded from coverage.
Recently, I received a call from an insurance agent telling me his client needed my help with a property damage claim. He proceeded to explain that the policyholder sustained water damage to the interior of her home and that she needs a new roof. When I asked what the cause of loss was, he said the solar panels were improperly installed with incorrect screws and when it rained, the roof leaked. This was the reason he gave for why she need a new roof and needs to file an insurance claim. When I explained that the solar panel company is responsible for the damage, he said the company was out of business, so she needs to file a claim and have the insurance company pay for it. I explained to him that his client’s insurance company is not responsible to pay for damages that are the result of improper or faulty installation, and that it is specifically excluded in the insurance policy he sold to his client. When he responded, “I didn’t know that” and kept insisting she needed to file a claim, I was astounded because he should know and understand the policy he sold her. How could he not understand what I just explained? After asking him some additional questions, it was clear there was absolutely no wind created opening to the roof allowing the water to enter, which is a requirement for that policy. He was adamant that the water damage was from the wrong screws being used during installation of the solar panels. It’s unfortunate for his client that the company is no longer in business and that she has no recourse against them, because she will have costly out of pocket repairs to her property. You have all heard me say multiple times throughout my 20 years in this industry, that not all property damage results in a covered claim! It’s important that you work with an insurance agent that knows and understands the policies they are selling, and that they explain the coverages, limitations and exclusions within the policy so you know what policy you are purchasing. If you are unsure if you have a covered insurance claim, or you have an underpaid insurance claim, we are here to help. We will review your policy and explain your coverages. Contact us today.  There are times when a property owner calls me for help with their insurance claim, and their frustration level rises to an all-time high when I tell them their coverage is limited, or they are not covered at all.
Handling commercial and residential property damage claims throughout Florida for 20 years as a public adjuster, appraiser and umpire, I have witnessed numerous changes and the erosion of coverage to insurance policies. Throughout my career, many property owners that I come in contact with, do not fully understand their insurance policies. What I hear most is “how did this happen?” and “my agent never told me”. An experienced and ethical insurance agent will review the policy and explain to you what is covered, what is not covered, and also what has changed in your insurance policy. I would suggest initiating that call prior to your renewal and have your insurance agent review the policy coverages and any additional changes. You may ask yourself, how did this happen? But the most important question is how did the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) approve such changes to insurance policies? The OIR plays a crucial role in regulating the insurance industry and aims to protect consumers. With the constant erosion in coverage through the years, one would have to wonder who the OIR is really protecting. What I find interesting, is how silent the mortgage companies are about this. When you have an HO3 All Risk Policy, it’s supposed to be full coverage for your property. How do the mortgage companies allow such limited coverage? When you have a mortgage on your property, the mortgage company has a financial interest until you pay off your mortgage. You would expect that they would want their interest to be protected. So how are they not up in arms when a property owner has limited coverage, and they cannot afford the repairs to their property? Insurance premiums continue to soar and when you pay for insurance, you expect that you will be covered in the event you have to file an insurance claim. When CEO's of insurance companies take compensation in the tens of millions of dollars and property owners cannot afford their insurance premiums, there is something wrong and things needs to change. See Gulf Coast News article. Do your due diligence and make sure you understand what is covered, limited or excluded in your insurance policy. Also, whether you are in a flood zone or not, and if you are, make sure you have a separate flood insurance policy. Interior and exterior water damage from floods, when water enters from the exterior of your property inward due to flood/rising water, are not covered in a standard property insurance policy. If you are unsure if you have a covered insurance claim, or if you have an underpaid insurance claim, we are here to help. We will review your policy and explain your coverages. Contact us today.  Being a public adjuster, appraiser and umpire for 20 years in South Florida representing policyholders with property damage claims and disputes, I have witnessed a multitude of changes throughout the years on how insurance companies process and handle property damage claims.
Hurricane Season is around the corner, so let’s discuss catastrophic events specifically. During catastrophes, insurance companies are dealing with multiple claims and may be short staffed. I have often heard desk adjusters complain that they have so many claims they are working 7 days a week just to keep up. There have also been times when different desk adjusters have been assigned to the claim. When this happens, the new desk adjuster needs to review the claim before anything further can be done. When you file your claim, the insurance company will assign a desk adjuster who will contact you for details about your claim. Once ascertained, they will assign your claim to a field adjuster to complete an inspection of your property. There are duties within the policy that the insurance company may request you comply with in addition to asking for certain documentation to support your claim. You must comply with these duties and requests to avoid any delays or the possibility of a denial of your claim. Field adjusters are also inundated with multiple claims and inspections. They are supposed to take copious amounts of photos and details of the damage and then prepare a damage estimate to submit to the insurance company. For a less complicated claim, once they submit their estimate to the insurance company, the estimate will be reviewed by the desk adjuster and if no clarification is needed, she/he will request approval so that an “undisputed payment” can be issued. Once an “undisputed payment” gets issued, that buys the insurance company additional time to process any outstanding coverages and payments on your claim. When there are multiple coverages to address such as building, contents, loss of use, business interruption, mold etc., sometimes an expert or vendor will be required to assist. The insurance company may assign an expert who will then have to conduct another inspection. Let’s say the insurance company does not agree with the assessment of the field adjuster or their expert. They may once again assign another expert such as a contractor, engineer, contents specialist, accountant or mold testing company to review the claim. This will require more time and maybe additional inspections. If the insurance company has questions about a report that was submitted from one of their experts, they can request clarification about the report which will require additional time. With all the moving parts to a claim, I can certainly understand how policyholders may feel that their claim is being delayed. If there is a claim dispute and you disagree with the insurance company’s assessment of your damages, depending on the policy wording, there may be dispute resolution options such as appraisal, mediation or arbitration. All of these would require additional time and inspections before your claim may be resolved. Our knowledge and experience make a difference. We are diligent about representing our clients and making sure they comply with all policy requirements, which lead to property claim settlements. If you are unsure if you have a covered insurance claim, or you have a new, underpaid or denied insurance claim, we are here to help. Contact us today. Pre-Purchase Inspection Reports – Why They Matter When You Have A Property Damage Insurance Claim5/6/2025  Living in South Florida provides wonderful opportunities for potential property owners. When you locate that perfect property, you should always hire a reputable property inspector to perform a thorough inspection.
Whether it’s for a commercial or residential property, an inspection will show the condition of the property prior to your purchase. If there are any issues found, the inspector will provide repair options in the report and the seller will have the opportunity to make the repairs prior to closing. There are times when the seller is not in the position to complete repairs, and they will provide a credit to the purchaser for an agreed amount so the purchaser can make the repairs. If this is the case, it’s important that the repairs are completed and you maintain all the invoices as proof of repairs. Why is an inspection report important when you have property damage and need to file an insurance claim? When filing an insurance claim, you want to make sure that the damage you are claiming is covered under your insurance policy, but more important, that the damage is not pre-existing. Recently contacted by a property owner who was unsure if the damage they had to the interior of their property or the damage to their roof was covered. After inspecting the damage inside, I got on the roof to finish my inspection. I did see prior repairs, and an area with some damage. In my nearly 20 years as a licensed public adjuster, and a certified appraiser and umpire, I know the difference between new and old damage. To me, the roof damage didn’t appear new. The property owner said they purchased the property approximately two years ago, so I asked if they had a property inspection report. They did and while I was on the roof, I was viewing the report. As I suspected, the roof damage was exactly the same in the inspection report as the damage I was viewing. Here are three important takeaways: 1. Your insurance policy does not cover pre-existing damage 2. Always have a property inspection done when purchasing property 3. Make sure that repairs mentioned in an inspection report are completed Before filing an insurance claim, you should have an experienced and knowledgeable public adjuster inspect the damage and review your policy to see what the policy coverages, or if you should even file a claim. Not all damage is a covered damage. At Reliant Insurance Adjusters, we treat every client’s claim as if it were our own. We always put our client’s interests before our own, but we will never represent a client for an uncovered loss. If you are unsure if you have a covered insurance claim, or you have a new, underpaid or denied insurance claim, we are here to help. Contact us today.  When you need to file a residential or commercial property damage claim, the last thing on your mind is will my insurance company cover all the damage? After all, you pay your insurance premiums, you have coverage and it’s a covered loss. So why wouldn’t they cover the damage?
Our client sustained water damage to her property when her neighbor’s washing machine leaked. There was extensive damage to kitchen cabinets, baseboards, walls. In adjacent rooms, more walls, wallpaper and flooring was also damaged. There was plenty of damage to the lower portions of the wallpaper which was continuous throughout the living areas. During the inspection with the insurance adjuster, we showed her the damaged wallpaper and she said “we only pay for the wallpaper that’s damaged. Not the undamaged parts. There are no coverage restrictions in the policy, so how can they only pay for “what’s damaged” when the wallpaper is more than 15 years old and is no longer available? What about the upper portions of the wallpaper and the continuous wallpaper? After further discussion and explanation, she agreed that it all needed to be replaced. Now the question remains – will the insurance company stand by their adjuster’s report, or decide to restrict the coverage and change the adjuster’s estimate? When an insurance company does this, how can a policyholder feel they can trust their insurance company when they need them most? At Reliant Insurance Adjusters, our knowledge and experience matter. We never give up and work diligently to obtain everything our clients are entitled to receive for their damage. If you have a new, underpaid or denied insurance claim, we are here to help. Contact us today.  Before you file a property damage insurance claim for a commercial or residential property, you need to know what caused the damage and the date the damage occurred.
You then need to find out if the cause of loss is covered under your insurance policy. If you do not, it may result in a denied claim or additional inspections by the insurance company. Just because you see damage, doesn’t mean it is covered. Cause of Loss Our policies cover damage caused by certain losses like fire and smoke, hurricanes, and water damage, just to name a few. Some policies contain limits or exclusions within the policy for specific losses, or time limits for a leak that goes on for an extended period, rather happening suddenly or accidentally. If you do not know the cause of the loss, or the damage appears to have been going on for some time, the insurance company may send an expert to provide the causation and approximate timeline of when the damage occurred. Experts If your roof leaks and causes damage to the interior of the property, the insurance company may send an engineer to inspect the roof to determine what caused the damage and if there is damage to your roof. Some policies require there to be a wind created opening to the roof or building that allows water to enter for any interior damage to be covered. These are some nuances within a policy that can either limit or exclude coverage. Make sure you understand your coverage, and you know what is causing the damage before you file a claim. Insurance Coverage You need to know and understand your insurance policy and the coverage it provides. We receive many calls when a claim gets denied because the property owner had no idea what caused the damage or if the damage was covered. When you see damage to your property, ask the following: What caused the damage? Is the damage covered? Are there coverage limits in the policy? Are there specific exclusions in the policy? What is your deductible? How much damage do you have? Is it worth filing a claim or repairing the damage? Simply put, there are many factors that go into an insurance claim, and you shouldn’t file a claim without knowing your insurance policy or the coverage it provides. If you have a new or underpaid insurance claim, or you are unsure if you are covered, we are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation. |
