Frequently Asked Questions Can I prepare my own claim? Many people do not read their entire insurance policy until after a loss. An insurance policy includes technical language and complicated policy provisions, which when not followed correctly, will result in a loss of benefits. Your policy is a legal contract between you and the insurance company. The insurance company has professional adjusters that understand the policy and represent the insurance company interests. Doesn't an insurance company have to pay me all that I am due? There are no routine reviews of insurance company claims handling by outside regulating concerns. The insurance companies offer settlement amounts based upon their intrepretation of the amount of your loss. If they can convince you that this amount is correct, they can close their file. However, since you may not be aware of your policy benefits, you may agree to an amount much less than what you are entitled to. What is a public adjuster? The State Department of Insurance licence public adjusters. Public adjusters are required to pass a competency test as well as meet an experience requirement prior to being licensed. The insurance company has sent out an adjuster. Why do I need one of my own? The insurance company adjuster is a professional trained by the insurance company to protect their interests only. I also have a broker. Why do I need a public adjuster? Your claim is handled by the insurance company claim department. Most brokers do not have any power to influence the claims handling of the claims department. Why should I retain a public adjuster to obtain what is rightfully due to me? Because the insurance company does not provide you with the detailed information that you need to prepare your claim properly. By not having this information, you will make many mistakes that will reduce your settlement. A public adjuster will eliminate these mistakes. How will a public adjuster help me? Your policy requires that you document your claim, even if some or all documentation is destroyed. Your public adjuster will prepare inventories, repair estimates and business income/extra expense calculations in a format that will satisfy the terms of your policy and will protect you from missing policy benefits that you are due. The insurance company will bring in their team of professionals including salvors, contractors and accountants to protect their money. The public adjuster will protect your interests from improper interpretation by these experts.