A public adjuster is an insurance claim professional hired by a property owner or organization to negotiate a settlement for a homeowner. Unlike an insurance adjuster, who works for an insurer, a public adjuster has no connection to the company. For this reason, you should hire a public adjuster if you suspect that your insurance company is unwilling or incompetent. These professionals charge a fee based on the settlement amount and represent your interests during the claims process.
A public adjuster in New Orleans will work on your behalf in evaluating your insurance claim and negotiating a settlement with the insurance company. Although this work is unauthorized in Louisiana, public adjusters are still needed to assist policyholders after a catastrophic event. They will work on your behalf to minimize the stress of losing a home or business. By following strict guidelines, a public adjuster can ensure that your property claim is handled properly.
Using a public adjuster can also be beneficial if you’re not aware of hidden damage. Public adjusters have the expertise to uncover hidden damages that most insurance adjusters fail to see. Water damage to a floor might be obvious and may even run into the walls. This damage can eventually affect drywall and cause mold and even compromise the security of cabinets. Public adjusters also know what questions to ask the insurance company to avoid denying your claim.
When hiring a public adjuster, check their credentials to make sure they’re professional and knowledgeable about the claims they handle. Ideally, they’ve worked with your insurance company before. Public adjusters should be members of the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters, which promotes standards for the profession. While this may be an extra cost for your insurance claim, it may be worth it for the peace of mind. If you’re dealing with a complex or large claim, a public adjuster may be worth the extra expense.
The fee charged by a public adjuster will depend on the state you live in. Generally, public adjusters charge a percentage of the settlement amount. This percentage can vary from state to state, so make sure to compare different fees to ensure you’re getting the best deal. A general rule of thumb is to pay them 10% of the settlement amount. However, public adjusters do charge a fee based on the size of your claim and the location of the public adjuster. Some firms charge a smaller percentage on larger claims, while others will increase their fees for smaller ones.
Once you’ve selected a public adjuster, you should know the exact fee that you’ll be paying. These fees depend on the level of expertise of the public adjuster and the final settlement amount. It is recommended that you hire a public adjuster with whom you’re comfortable communicating. Although hiring a lawyer is never a bad idea, it may be necessary if you feel that the insurance settlement you receive is unfair.