After a substantial loss, many individuals characterize the process of filing an insurance claim as a full-time job. The claim procedure requires effort, paperwork, arithmetic, insurance laws, and negotiating. In the aftermath of a disaster, it may take a long time and a lot of effort to document and value everything that has been damaged or lost.
It may also be very difficult to come to an agreement on a fair claim settlement after an emotionally traumatic event. You may manage your claim on your own with the aid of UP’s suggestions and resources. Good claim service is included in the protection that comes with your insurance.
You may be able to handle a claim on your own, or you may benefit from the assistance of a third party. It’s a personal choice that you should make in light of your own situation. Your claim may be “adjusted” (processed) and “settled” by a licensed public Adjusters in Florida who can act as your agent and advocate (paid).
Similarly, to any other career, some Public Adjusters are more competent than others. When you’ve experienced a severe loss, the last thing you need is further troubles, so do your research before hiring. Don’t make hasty hiring decisions or succumb to high-pressure sales tactics.
Pre-Appointment Questions for Public Adjusters
- In my state, are you permitted to practice public adjusting?
Check to see whether the public adjuster you’re considering is licensed. The license of each Public Adjuster should be shown. In certain cases, Public Adjusters operate under the license of another people or company, rather than obtaining their own credentials and qualifications as an individual. For best results, look for an adjuster who has been in the business for at least five years and has an excellent track record with the authorities.
- Is my claim going to be handled by you personally?
Interviewing the people who will be making the adjustments to the loss is critical. Or is the individual only a sales representative who will give along your claim to someone else?
- Count the number of claims you’ve made in this region.
The aftermath of a catastrophe public adjusters that take on more claims than they can manage will not give your case the time and care it deserves.
- Do you have any expertise in revising insurance claims or in the field of construction estimating?
A minimum of three local customers who were happy with your work would be much appreciated. Seek out a list of references from cases that the prospective Public Adjuster has handled in the last three years. In certain cases, adjusters have short-lived relationships with the firms they represent.
- Let’s go into the details of the deal.
In most cases, Public Adjusters operate on a contingency fee basis, charging 5–15% of the settlement money you get from your insurance. A limit may apply in certain jurisdictions, although fees may be negotiated in all states. A Public Adjuster’s charge should be based on the magnitude and kind of your loss and the current status of your claim when you agree to pay. Make sure you know up front whether the Public Adjuster will collect a part of the money the insurer has promised to pay but has not yet paid.
- Is your name/the name of your firm on every insurance check I get after I engage you?
There are certain public adjusters that do not charge a fee for Additional Living Expenses or other insurance benefits. Don’t engage into a contract unless you’ve agreed on this.
Conclusion
Even the savviest insured will find the process of documenting and managing a catastrophic property loss tedious and time-consuming. You may be entitled to additional coverages above the policy’s listed limitations and even more than the insurance company gives you.
