What Does a Public Adjuster Do? A Complete Guide for Property Owners

If you've suffered property damage, you may have heard the term "public adjuster" but aren't sure what they do or why you might need one. This guide explains everything you need to know.

What Is a Public Adjuster?

A public adjuster is a licensed insurance claims professional who works exclusively for policyholders — not for the insurance company. Their job is to manage every aspect of your property damage insurance claim, from initial inspection to final settlement.

How Public Adjusters Differ from Insurance Company Adjusters

When you file a claim, your insurance company sends their own adjuster to assess the damage. While they may seem helpful, it's important to understand that the insurance company's adjuster works for the insurer. Their assessment may minimize the extent of damage or the cost of repairs.

A public adjuster, on the other hand, works solely for you. They are incentivized to maximize your settlement because they only get paid when you receive money.

What Services Do Public Adjusters Provide?

Public adjusters handle the entire claims process:

• Property inspection and damage assessment — thorough documentation of all damage, including hidden damage that may not be immediately visible
• Policy review and analysis — identifying all coverages, endorsements, and provisions that apply to your claim
• Claim preparation — creating detailed estimates, photographing damage, and preparing supporting documentation
• Negotiation — communicating directly with your insurance company to secure the maximum settlement

When Should You Hire a Public Adjuster?

Consider hiring a public adjuster when:

1. Your claim has been denied or underpaid
2. You've experienced significant property damage
3. You're overwhelmed by the claims process
4. Your insurance company's offer seems too low
5. You don't have time to manage the claim yourself

The Numbers Speak for Themselves

According to the Florida Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA), policyholders who used public adjusters received an average settlement of $17,187, compared to just $2,029 for those who handled claims on their own.

Choosing the Right Public Adjuster

Look for a public adjuster who is:

• Licensed in your state
• Experienced with your type of damage
• Transparent about their fee structure
• Available to answer your questions
• Backed by positive client reviews

Secure Claims meets all of these criteria and operates on a No Recovery, No Fee basis across Florida, Texas, California, Colorado, and the Carolinas.