Insurance Adjuster

An insurance adjuster (or claims adjuster) investigates insurance claims, assesses damage, and determines the appropriate payout based on policy coverage.

Types of Adjusters:

Staff Adjuster:

• Employed directly by the insurance company
• Represents the insurer's interests
• Handles routine claims

  Independent Adjuster:

• Contracted by insurance companies
• Often used during disasters when volume is high
• Still works on behalf of the insurer

  Public Adjuster:

• Hired by YOU, the policyholder
• Represents your interests
• Helps maximize your settlement

  What Adjusters Do:

1. Inspect the damage in person 2. Review your policy coverage 3. Document the loss with photos/notes 4. Estimate repair costs 5. Determine covered vs. non-covered damage 6. Calculate the settlement amount 7. Explain the settlement to you

Working with an Adjuster:

• Be present during inspections
• Point out all damage
• Provide documentation (inventory, receipts)
• Ask questions about their findings
• Get their assessment in writing
• Don't sign anything you don't understand

  Disagreeing with the Adjuster:

If you disagree with the assessment:

• Request a detailed explanation
• Provide additional documentation
• Get independent repair estimates
• Consider hiring a public adjuster
• File an appeal with the insurer