Independent Adjuster Vs. Public Adjuster: Which One Do You Need?

Dealing with an insurance claim can be a stressful experience. Not only do you have to navigate the complicated legal language of your insurance policy, but you also have to deal with the aftermath of an accident or natural disaster. That's where claims adjusters come in; they're the ones responsible for evaluating your claim and negotiating with your insurance company on your behalf. But with so many types of adjusters out there, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at two of the most common types of adjusters: independent adjusters and public adjusters, so that you can make an informed decision.

1. Independent Adjusters

Independent adjusters are hired by insurance companies to investigate and evaluate claims on their behalf. They are essentially private contractors who work on an as-needed basis. Unlike staff adjusters who are employees of the insurance company, independent adjusters work independently of any insurance company, although they are often contracted by insurers. Their job is to evaluate the damage and determine the value of the claim. They have experience in claims adjusting and are trained in negotiation and dispute resolution. The process of working with an independent adjuster is straightforward: they will inspect the damage, evaluate your claim, and negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you get the best settlement possible.

2. Public Adjusters

If you're not satisfied with the settlement offered by your insurance company, you can hire a public adjuster to represent you. Public adjusters are licensed professionals who work for policyholders, not insurance companies. They are experienced in the claims process and can help you navigate the complicated world of insurance claims. Public adjusters will work for you on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if you receive a settlement. They will inspect the damage, evaluate your claim, and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. Public adjusters will also assist you in preparing and submitting the necessary documentation needed for your claim.

3. Which one do you need?

The choice between hiring an independent adjuster or a public adjuster depends on your individual needs. If you're seeking an adjuster who evaluates the claim on a contractor basis, you may need an independent adjuster. This type of adjuster has experience negotiating with insurance companies and can help you receive a favorable settlement for your claim. On the other hand, if you're not satisfied with the settlement offered by your insurance company, you may need a public adjuster. Public adjusters work for policyholders and have the expertise to negotiate with insurers for a fair settlement.

4. How can Five Star Claims Adjusting help you?

At Five Star Claims Adjusting, our team of experienced adjusters is committed to helping policyholders in South Florida get the compensation they deserve for their insurance claims. Our licensed and certified adjusters work for you, not the insurance company. We have the expertise to navigate the complicated claims process and can provide the assistance you need to receive a fair settlement. Whether you need an independent adjuster or a public adjuster, we have the experience and knowledge to help you every step of the way.

Conclusion

Navigating the claims process can be overwhelming, but choosing the right adjuster to represent you can make all the difference. Independent adjusters work for insurance companies while public adjusters work for policyholders. The choice between the two depends on your individual needs. At Five Star Claims Adjusting, we're committed to providing our clients with the assistance they need to receive a fair settlement. Whether you need an independent adjuster or a public adjuster, we have the experience and knowledge to help you every step of the way. So, If you're looking for an insurance claims adjuster in South Florida, contact us today to schedule your free consultation.