The best way to locate an excellent public adjuster can be found through the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters. NAPIA provides recommendations for every state that licenses public adjusters. A Public Insurance Adjuster is the only type of adjuster that is qualified to represent the insured party in the event of a property loss. More than 43 states plus the District of Columbia require an adjuster to hold this licensure representing the insurer.
An experienced public insurance adjuster will act as your advocate and help you navigate the insurance maze so you can collect the amount that is due under your insurance policy. However, there are many steps to be taken before you can get paid by the insurer. These include valuing the loss, presenting it to the insurer and negotiating a settlement. Insurance policies are complicated and are conditional. Therefore, full payment on an unintentional loss isn't automatic.
An adjuster from the public sector can assist determine coverages and causes of the loss in order to assess the insurer's offer or denial.
After a disaster, fire victims are often bombarded with inquires and offers from general contractors and public adjusters, as well as other companies offering assistance. This is the norm. The fact that you are being contacted doesn't necessarily mean that they're doing anything wrong. But, it is important to be aware and conduct your research prior to signing up to their services.
If the public adjusters aren't members of NAPIA, (National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters,) be cautious.. They might not have the legal or insurance knowledge to adequately represent you. Here are a few danger signs:
1. They make big promises, but without any guarantee.
2. Their charges are exorbitant. Most legitimate Public Insurance Adjusters fees range between 5% to 12% and average around 10%. Some public adjusters may charge higher fees on smaller claims or when employed midway through the claim process.
3. If you are pressured to take a decision quickly take a break. The legitimate PAs understand Claims that the choice to have someone represent you to get your life and home back on track is an important one. This is not a decision to be taken quickly. This could one of the most costly decisions you'll ever make in your lifetime. Make sure you take your time and be sure you are at ease with the adjuster you employ.
4. Go to their website and address. If they don't have anything other than a business card, be very wary. If their only address is a PO box, this could be a warning sign.
5. It is usually more beneficial to work with an individual who is local. Someone who is familiar with the local market for housing and reconstruction costs, who is aware of the assets of the community and how best to use the resources. A local PA might also have previous experience working with representatives of the major insurance firms in the region and might be capable of cutting through a lot of the bureaucracy and red tape to ensure you receive the money owed to you more quickly.