Frequently Asked Questions
Over thirty years in the insurance industry, certain questions came up again and again from property owners dealing with claims. Here are straightforward answers drawn from professional experience and industry knowledge.
About Public Adjusters
What exactly does a public adjuster do?
A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents the policyholder — not the insurance company — during a property damage claim. They assess the damage, review your policy, prepare the claim documentation, and negotiate directly with the insurer on your behalf. Unlike company adjusters who work for the insurer, a public adjuster is your advocate. They are paid a percentage of the settlement, which means their interests are aligned with getting you the maximum fair payout.
When should I hire a public adjuster?
The best time is immediately after a significant loss occurs — before you file or accept any initial settlement offer. Public adjusters are especially valuable for large or complex claims such as flood damage, fire losses, or major storm events. If you feel the insurance company’s assessment is too low, a public adjuster can reopen the claim and pursue additional compensation. From my experience, homeowners who engage a licensed adjuster early in the process consistently achieve better outcomes.
How much does a public adjuster cost?
Public adjusters typically charge a percentage of the claim settlement, usually ranging from 5% to 15% depending on the complexity and size of the claim. There are no upfront costs in most cases. The fee structure means the adjuster only gets paid when you get paid. In my three decades of observing claims outcomes, the increased settlement amount from professional representation almost always exceeds the adjuster’s fee by a considerable margin.
Flood Insurance and Claims
Does my homeowner’s insurance cover flood damage?
In almost all cases, no. Standard homeowner’s insurance policies explicitly exclude flood damage. Flood coverage requires a separate policy, typically purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private carrier. This is one of the most common misconceptions I encountered throughout my career. Property owners in Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts should confirm their coverage well before any flood event occurs, as there is usually a 30-day waiting period before new flood policies take effect.
What should I do immediately after flood damage?
Document everything before cleaning up. Take photographs and video of all damaged areas, including walls, floors, personal property, and mechanical systems. Make a list of damaged items with approximate values. Contact your insurance carrier to report the loss, but avoid accepting any initial verbal estimates without written documentation. Protect the property from further damage by boarding up openings or removing standing water, but keep receipts for all emergency expenses. These steps are critical for building a strong claim file.
How long does a flood insurance claim take to settle?
Under the National Flood Insurance Program, insurers have 60 days after receiving a proof of loss to make a determination. In practice, the timeline varies significantly based on claim complexity, documentation quality, and whether the insurer requests additional information. Claims involving structural damage and contents can take three to six months. Having a licensed public adjuster manage the documentation and negotiations can often accelerate the process by ensuring complete submissions from the outset.
Policyholder Rights and Resources
What rights do I have as a policyholder during a claim?
Policyholders have several important rights that insurance companies are not always forthcoming about. You have the right to hire your own adjuster to represent your interests. You have the right to receive a detailed, written explanation of any claim denial. You can request a re-inspection if you believe the initial assessment missed damage. You also have the right to invoke the appraisal clause in your policy if you disagree with the settlement amount. Understanding these rights is essential for protecting yourself during the claims process.
Where can I find help if I feel my claim was unfairly handled?
If you believe your claim was denied unfairly or that the settlement offer does not reflect the actual damage, there are several paths forward. Start by filing a formal appeal with your insurer in writing. You can also contact your state’s Department of Insurance to file a complaint. For additional guidance on navigating insurance claims and understanding your rights as a policyholder, United Policyholders offers free resources including their Roadmap to Recovery program designed to help property owners through the claims process. Their consumer advocacy work has helped thousands of property owners obtain fair outcomes.
Learn More About the Claims Process
This video walks through the insurance claims process step by step, covering what to expect and how to prepare.
Have a Question Not Listed Here?
Every claim situation is unique. If your question was not addressed above, reach out for a personal consultation. Decades of industry experience are behind every answer.