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FAQ

What is a Public Adjuster? Public Adjusters are experts on loss adjustments who you can employ to assist you in preparing, filing and adjusting fire, business interruption and allied claim adjustments. A Public Adjuster who belongs to the State Association of Public Insurance Adjusters adheres to a strict Code of Ethics and is able to take advantage of the best quality continuing education in the country. Additionally, CAPIA members have a network of resources to best assist you in handling your insurance claim.

Will the insurance company recognize a Public Adjuster as my representative? Yes. Most companies actually prefer to work with an experienced claimant. It is to the best interests of all concerned that a fair and prompt settlement be made.

What will a Public Adjuster do for me? Advise and assist in the preparation of inventories, estimates, and the factual Proofs of Loss. Handle all the necessary details for compiling and filing claims, as required by the terms of your insurance company representative, and handle everything essential to a proper and satisfactory adjustment of your claim.

How can a Public Adjuster serve me better than the insurance company adjuster or independent adjuster? The insurance company adjuster or independent adjuster is employed exclusively by the insurance company and must try to strike a balance between your interest and those of the insurance company. Public Adjusters are working for your best interests exclusively.

How can a Public Adjuster assist me? In settling your claim, the insurance company will cover you only in accordance with the terms of your policy. It is up to you to prove your loss. And there may be many questions as to how the policy stipulations could or should be applied in different circumstances. Public Adjusters are your experts when such questions arise. The Public Adjuster’s years of experience and specialized knowledge make it possible for you to receive the maximum amount to which you may be entitled under your insurance policy. The Public Adjuster’s professional help relieves you of the work, worry and the enormous amount of time-consuming detail in filing a claim, and thereby allows you to devote your time and effort to your family business or other activities.

Can I prepare my own claim? Yes you can. Be prepared to document all aspects of your loss, and follow through with the agent and the company. However, if your loss is significant (more than $10,000) you should consider hiring your own expert Public Adjuster to receive your full entitlements. Remember, the insurance company has their own expert representing them.

Why Should I Hire Public Insurance Adjuster To Get What is Rightfully Mine? Many people have difficulty understanding the technical language of an insurance policy and the complicated procedures they must follow to comply with the policy?s terms. This problem is magnified when you have suffered a loss and are emotional about the situation. That is a perfect time to have an experienced professional on your side whose sole responsibility in the matter is to serve you, the Insured. The insurance company certainly has an experienced professional working for them.

How Much Do Public Adjusters Charge for Their Services? Public Adjusters charge a percentage of the settlement for their service to you. The Public Adjuster is not paid until you are paid. There are no upfront fees for their services. Percentages vary from adjuster to adjuster, so it is best to shop for the best adjuster for you.

Are Public Adjusters trained specialists? A licensed Public Adjuster is tested, licensed, bonded and authorizes to practice the profession. By attending bi-annual conferences, CAPIA  members continue their professional education to keep up with the ever-changing Insurance Industry. They subscribed to constant emails bringing them up-to-date on a monthly and weekly basis. Their network of contacts means the best support staff and contacts will be working for you.

Will as Public Adjuster take care of any claims other than fire? Yes. Public Adjusters will assist you in any claims of loss against any insurance company under the fire coverage and allied lines. These include windstorm, explosion, snow, hail, smoke, motor vehicle damage losses, inland marine, use and occupancy, rentals, improvements and betterment, commission and profit, report forms and other.

Are Public Adjusters Affiliated with Insurance Companies? No they are not. Their services are available only to the Insured public, not the insurance company.

What Should I Consider When Hiring a Public Adjuster? Here’s a short list of things to consider:


License: Make sure the individual and the company’s license is up-to-date with the State of California. Some people misrepresent themselves as Public Adjusters.

Experience: Public Adjusters come from a wide range of backgrounds ? see if who you are consider who and what company fits your needs.

Professionalism: A professional Public Adjuster will explain the fee structure up-front so you understand why and what you’re are paying for, and will explain and outline their role in the process.

Comfort Level: This intangible may be quite important if your claim is complex or extensive. This person will be helping you through a very traumatic time and resolving the claim could take some time & find someone who fits your needs and suits your style.