Independent Insurance Adjuster vs. Public Insurance Adjuster: What's the Difference?

If you've ever been involved in an insurance claim, you might have heard of adjusters. Insurance adjusters are responsible for handling your claim and ensuring you receive the appropriate compensation. However, did you know there are two types of adjusters: independent and public? Many people are unaware of the differences between these two types of adjusters. In this blog post, we'll explore the key differences between independent and public insurance adjusters, so you can make an informed decision when seeking help with your insurance claim.

1. Control

The main difference between independent and public insurance adjusters is who they work for. Independent adjusters work for insurance companies, while public adjusters work for the policyholder. This means independent adjusters are looking out for the interests of the insurance company first, while public adjusters are focused solely on the policyholder's interests. Public adjusters work independently, so they control the scope of the claim and can negotiate for the highest possible settlement.

2. Qualifications

Both independent and public adjusters are licensed professionals, but they have different qualifications. Typically, independent adjusters are hired on a contract basis, so they may not have the same level of experience and qualifications as a public adjuster. Public adjusters are usually employed by a firm, which means they undergo extensive training and have a specific set of qualifications. This can be especially important if your claim is complex or involves a lot of money.

3. Fees

Another key difference between independent and public adjusters is how they get paid. Independent adjusters are typically paid by the insurance company and receive a percentage of the total settlement amount. Public adjusters, on the other hand, work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if they are successful in negotiating a settlement for the policyholder. While this can mean higher fees upfront, it also means that you won't have to pay anything unless you receive compensation for your claim.

4. Disputes and Mediation

If a dispute arises during the claims process, independent adjusters have the backing of the insurance company to help resolve the issue. Public adjusters, on the other hand, may have to resort to mediation or legal action to ensure their client receives the appropriate compensation. However, public adjusters have the freedom to hire their own experts and contractors to back up their claim, which can help speed up the claims process and avoid disputes altogether.

5. Timeframe

Finally, when it comes to timing, public adjusters may be able to handle your claim more quickly than an independent adjuster. This is because they have the flexibility to work on your claim full-time and can prioritize your needs. Independent adjusters typically have multiple claims to handle at once, which can lead to a longer claims process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the key difference between independent and public adjusters comes down to who they work for, their qualifications, fees, dispute resolution, and timing. If you're looking for an adjuster that will prioritize your interests and work independently to negotiate the best possible settlement, a public adjuster may be the way to go. However, keep in mind that a public adjuster may be more expensive upfront and may have to resort to mediation or legal action to resolve disputes. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which type of adjuster is best suited for your needs. At Five Star Claims Adjusting, we offer both independent and public adjuster services to ensure that our clients receive the attention and care they deserve.  If you're looking for an insurance claims adjuster in Hillsborough County, FL, contact us today to schedule your free inspection and see how we can help with your insurance claim.