Frequently Asked Questions
Q: WILL I GET A HIGHER SETTLEMENT IF I HIRE A PUBLIC ADJUSTER?
A: In a 2005 case study by the Office of Program Policy Analysis & Government Accountability (OPPAGA), it
was found that the average claim payment for homeowners without a Public Adjuster was $2,029. In contrast,
those who used a Public Adjuster received an average claim payment of $17,187. This represents a 747%
increase in the average claim payment for homeowners who utilized a Public Adjuster. This data suggests that
Public Adjusters can significantly impact the settlement amounts by negotiating higher payments on behalf of
policyholders. However, it’s important to consider that various factors, such as the complexity of the claim, may
also influence these outcomes.
Q: WHAT IS A PUBLIC ADJUSTER?
A: A public adjuster is a professional who represents policyholders in negotiating insurance claims. They work
on behalf of the insured, rather than the insurance company, to help ensure that the policyholder receives a fair
settlement. Public adjusters assess the damage, prepare claim documents, and negotiate with the insurance
company to maximize the claim payout.
Q: WHAT IS THE COST FOR HIRING A PUBLIC ADJUSTER?
A: The standard fee for public adjusting services is 10% of the amount recovered from the insurance company.
These fees are regulated by the Texas Department of Insurance.
Q: MY CLAIM WAS DENIED, AM I ENTITLED TO A SECOND OPINION?
A: Yes! Many of our clients were told their claim was denied. We simply reopen the loss, negotiate with your
insurance company, and insist they pay for viable damages.
Q: IF MY CLAIM HAS BEEN CLOSED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY, IS IT TOO LATE TO
HIRE A PUBLIC ADJUSTER?
A: Usually, it is not too late. Most policies allow two years to file a supplemental claim from the date of loss. If
you do not believe you were paid the right amount and would like us to review your claim, please contact us.
We will carefully audit and analyze your claim and give you our professional opinion.
Q: IS THERE A MINIMUM VALUE REQUIREMENT FOR A CLAIM?
A: We only get involved in claims where our services are needed. Therefore, there is no claim too big or too
small. Just give us a call to discuss your claim and we will give you our professional opinion. Remember, we
only get paid if we are successful in your recovery. So if your claim is truly not covered, or there are limiting
factors, we express this to you before ever getting started. There is no reason to pursue a claim that we know
will not produce results. To file a claim that was not covered would only wastes your time, and ours.
Q: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PUBLIC ADJUSTER AND AN INSURANCE
COMPANY ADJUSTER?
A: The insurance company adjuster or independent claim adjuster are both employed by the insurance company
and can’t protect both your interest and the interest of his/her employer at the same time. The insurance
company adjuster will often offer to settle a claim for the sum they see fit, which is usually not in favor of the
policyholder. A public adjuster is an insurance adjuster expert who works exclusively for you, the policyholder.
We are experts in reading the final print and understanding your policy, coverage, and the insurance company’s
responsibilities, in order to negotiate a better settlement.
Q: WHO REGULATES A PUBLIC ADJUSTER?
A: A public adjuster is an insurance adjuster expert who is licensed and bonded by the Florida Department of
Financial Services and Texas Department of Insurance to work exclusively for the benefit of the policyholder.
Q: WHO USES THE SERVICES OF A PUBLIC ADJUSTER?
A: Public adjusters are hired by individuals and all types of businesses and professionals, including attorneys,
banks, accountants, business owners, and even insurance adjusters and agents for their own losses. Once a
person has experienced the benefits of our services, they will rarely attempt to settle a claim without our help.
Most Insurance Company adjusters will use a Public Adjuster to represent them in their own claim on their
personal home, because they know the outcome if they don’t.
Q: WHEN SHOULD I CALL BAY AREA PUBLIC ADJUSTERS?
A: You should call us immediately after a loss. It is most beneficial for all parties when we are involved at the
beginning of the claim development so we can set the tone for the entire process. Our Public Adjusters can
evaluate your claim and better prepare you if we are involved in the beginning. We can also file the claim on
your behalf with your insurance company.
Q: WILL MY INSURANCE COMPANY CANCEL MY CONTRACT IF I HIRE A PUBLIC
ADJUSTER?
A: No. It would be a serious violation for any insurance company to discriminate against you in any way for
exercising a right given to you by the State of Texas or Florida.
Q: HOW DOES A PUBLIC ADJUSTER PREPARE A CLAIM?
A: A public adjuster prepares a claim by first reviewing the insurance policy to understand coverage details.
They then assess the damage by inspecting the property and documenting the loss with photos, videos, and
detailed notes. The adjuster gathers necessary documentation, such as repair estimates and receipts, to support
the claim. They compile all this information into a comprehensive claim package and submit it to the insurance
company. Throughout the process, the public adjuster communicates with the insurer on behalf of the
policyholder to negotiate a fair settlement.
