What is a Public Adjuster?

What Public Adjusters Do

A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents property owners in insurance claims. Unlike insurance company adjusters who work for insurers, public adjusters work exclusively for policyholders.

Public adjusters handle:

• Property damage inspection and documentation

• Insurance policy review

• Claim preparation and filing

• Damage valuation

• Negotiations with insurance companies

• Settlement coordination

How Public Adjusters Work

When you hire a public adjuster, they become your representative in the claim process. They document your property damage, review your insurance policy to understand coverage, prepare claim documentation, and handle communications with your insurance company.

Public adjusters typically work on a contingency basis, meaning they receive a percentage of your claim settlement. You pay nothing upfront, and fees are only paid if your claim settles.

When Property Owners Hire Public Adjusters

Property owners often engage public adjusters when:

• Damage is extensive or complex

• Policy language is difficult to understand

• They don't have time to manage the claim process

• Initial claim offers seem insufficient

• Disputes arise over coverage or valuation

• They want professional representation throughout the process

Licensing and Regulation

Public adjusters are licensed by state insurance departments. In Tennessee, public adjusters must meet specific education and experience requirements and pass a state licensing exam. They're regulated to ensure they meet professional standards when representing property owners.

Questions to Ask

If you're considering hiring a public adjuster, ask about:

• Their licensing and experience

• Types of claims they typically handle

• How fees are structured

• What services are included

• Expected timeline for your claim

• How they communicate with clients

Public Adjusters Work for Policyholders, Like You

Public adjusters provide professional representation for property owners navigating insurance claims. Understanding what public adjusters do and how they work can help you decide if this service is right for your situation.