In the wake of the mad scramble ensuing in California to file homeowner insurance claims, one piece of advice worth heeding is hiring a public adjuster now to help you file your insurance claim. Here are 7 reasons why.
1. Advocating for the Homeowner’s Interests
Insurance companies have adjusters that work for them, aiming to minimize payouts. Public adjusters, on the other hand, are independent professionals hired by the homeowner to advocate on their behalf. Their primary goal is to ensure the homeowner receives the maximum settlement they are entitled to under their policy. And they're worth their weight in gold when filing a homeowner's insurance claim after a natural disaster, such as the most recent and devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, CA .
2. Expertise in Handling Complex Claims
When disasters like wildfires or hurricanes strike and thousands of claims flood insurance companies, the process can become chaotic and protracted. Public adjusters bring expertise in:
- - Evaluating property damage accurately.
- - Understanding the nuances of insurance policies.
- - Identifying overlooked or underestimated losses, such as smoke damage, hidden structural damage, or personal property loss.
This expertise helps ensure that no aspect of the claim is missed or undervalued.
3. Managing Overwhelmed Insurance Companies
In large-scale disasters, insurance companies face a surge in claims, which often leads to:
- - Delays in inspections and settlements.
- - Increased chances of errors or oversights in claims processing.
- - Lower settlement offers due to rushed evaluations.
A public adjuster can help expedite the process, ensuring the homeowner’s claim doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.
4. Saving Time and Reducing Stress
Dealing with insurance claims after a disaster is time-consuming and emotionally draining. A public adjuster handles all aspects of the claim, including:
- - Documenting losses with detailed reports and photographs.
- - Communicating and negotiating with the insurance company.
- - Filing necessary paperwork.
This allows homeowners to focus on rebuilding their lives rather than being bogged down in bureaucracy.
5. Maximizing Settlements
Public adjusters are skilled negotiators who often secure higher settlements than homeowners might achieve on their own. They are experienced in:
- - Ensuring compliance with policy terms.
- - Challenging lowball offers.
- - Negotiating for additional funds for underestimated damages or unforeseen rebuilding costs.
6. Knowledge of Disaster-Specific Challenges
Disasters like wildfires present unique challenges:
- - Smoke and ash damage may not be immediately visible but can have long-term effects on a property.
- - Local rebuilding costs may spike due to high demand for contractors and materials.
- - Homeowners may be entitled to additional living expenses (ALE) if they are displaced.
Public adjusters understand these intricacies and ensure they are accounted for in the claim.
7. Leveling the Playing Field
Insurance companies have teams of adjusters, appraisers, and attorneys working to protect their bottom line. Hiring a public adjuster levels the playing field, giving the homeowner a knowledgeable advocate to counterbalance the insurer’s resources.
How to Find a Qualified Public Adjuster in California and Other US States
When choosing a public adjuster, ensure they are:
- - Licensed in your state (e.g., California).
- - Experienced with disaster claims.
- - A member of a professional organization, such as the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA).
(Californians can visit this page in NAPIA’s directory to find a qualified public adjuster in their area today.)
Conclusion
In the aftermath of a major disaster, when insurance companies are overwhelmed with claims, hiring a public adjuster is a smart move. Their expertise, advocacy, and ability to navigate the claims process can make a significant difference, ensuring homeowners receive a fair settlement and the support they need to rebuild.
