What Kinds of Claims Can a Public Adjuster Help With?
Public adjusters assist policyholders with various types of insurance claims, including:
- Fire and Smoke Damage Claims – Fires can cause extensive structural damage and smoke-related issues. Public adjusters help ensure full coverage for rebuilding and restoration.
- Water and Flood Damage Claims – Water damage from burst pipes, leaks, or natural disasters can be complicated to claim. Public adjusters navigate policy exclusions and ensure proper compensation.
- Storm and Wind Damage Claims – Tornadoes, hurricanes, and severe storms can cause roof and structural damage. A public adjuster assesses all potential damages for accurate claims.
- Theft and Vandalism Claims – If a property suffers theft or vandalism, a public adjuster ensures that all stolen or damaged property is properly accounted for in the claim.
- Business Interruption Claims – Businesses facing losses due to property damage can rely on public adjusters to calculate lost income and expenses accurately.
- Mold Damage Claims – Mold issues can arise from water damage. Public adjusters help determine coverage for remediation costs.
- Collapse and Structural Damage Claims – If a building structure is compromised due to unforeseen circumstances, a public adjuster ensures all damages are included in the claim.
Public adjusters are skilled in maximizing insurance payouts across these and other types of claims, helping policyholders secure the settlements they deserve.
A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents policyholders during the insurance claims process. Unlike insurance company adjusters who work on behalf of the insurer, public adjusters advocate for the policyholder to ensure they receive a fair settlement.
Key Responsibilities of a Public Adjuster:
Evaluate Damage: They inspect the property to assess the extent of the damage and determine repair or replacement costs.
Review Insurance Policies: They interpret the insurance policy to identify coverage and ensure the claim is within the policy’s terms.
Prepare and File Claims: They handle all necessary paperwork and documentation to submit a complete and accurate claim.
Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Public adjusters negotiate with the insurance company’s representatives to secure the best possible settlement.
Provide Expert Advice: They guide policyholders through the claims process, offering expert insights to avoid mistakes or delays.
When to Hire a Public Adjuster:
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After experiencing significant property damage from events like fires, floods, storms, or other disasters.
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When the insurance company’s initial settlement offer seems low or unfair.
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If the claims process becomes complicated or overwhelming.
Public adjusters typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they receive a percentage of the final claim payout. While this fee reduces the payout, the adjuster’s expertise often results in a higher settlement, making their services beneficial in complex or large claims.
In Minnesota, individuals seeking to become licensed public adjusters must meet specific requirements set by the Minnesota Department of Commerce. The key qualifications include:
Age and Character: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess a reputation for trustworthiness and competence.
Examination: Candidates are required to pass a state-administered exam covering relevant insurance laws and practices.
Fingerprinting and Background Check: Submission of fingerprints for a criminal history record check is mandatory.
Application Submission: After passing the exam, applicants must complete and submit the Adjuster license application online via Sircon.
Surety Bond: Public adjusters are required to obtain a $10,000 surety bond using the form approved by the Commerce Department.
Continuing Education: To maintain licensure, public adjusters must complete 24 hours of continuing education each renewal period, including at least three hours dedicated to ethics.
Licenses are valid for two years and expire on the last day of the adjuster’s birth month.