Filing an insurance claim after property damage can feel like stepping into a maze of paperwork, inspections, and negotiations. Most policyholders assume that the insurance claims adjuster assigned to their case will work in their best interest. Unfortunately, that’s not always true.
The truth is simple: an insurance company’s adjuster protects the insurer’s bottom line. On the other hand, a public insurance adjuster—also known as a public claims adjuster—works exclusively for you, the policyholder. Knowing the difference between the two can determine whether you walk away with a fair settlement or one that falls short of covering your losses.
Understanding the Role of an Insurance Claims Adjuster
An insurance claims adjuster is a professional tasked with investigating damage, reviewing insurance policies, and recommending the settlement amount. However, their loyalty depends on who employs them:
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Company Staff Adjuster – A full-time employee of the insurance company.
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Independent Adjuster – Contracted by insurers but still representing their interests.
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Public Insurance Adjuster – Licensed and hired by policyholders to represent them exclusively.
While the first two categories focus on reducing claim costs for the insurance company, a public claims adjuster ensures that the policyholder’s claim is valued as fully as possible.
Why Insurance Companies Benefit from Their Own Adjusters
Insurance companies are profit-driven businesses. Their insurance claims adjusters are trained to interpret policies in a way that minimizes payouts. Some common tactics include:
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Downplaying Damages – Identifying only surface-level issues and ignoring hidden structural damage.
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Overlooking Coverage – Failing to inform policyholders of additional benefits within their policy.
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Delaying Settlements – Extending the process in hopes that claimants will accept lower offers out of frustration.
This doesn’t mean insurance adjusters are dishonest—it means they serve their employer’s financial interests, not yours.
The Advantage of a Public Insurance Adjuster
By contrast, a public insurance adjuster flips the script. They are the only type of adjuster who legally and ethically represents the policyholder. Their primary goal is to secure the maximum settlement you’re entitled to.
Here’s how a public claims adjuster makes a difference:
1. Uncovering Hidden Losses
Insurance companies may assess visible damage but overlook issues like water infiltration, mold growth, or long-term structural risks. A public insurance adjuster thoroughly inspects every detail to ensure nothing is missed.
2. Expert Policy Interpretation
Insurance contracts are filled with technical terms, exclusions, and conditions. A public claims adjuster understands how to apply policy language in your favor, making sure you don’t leave money on the table.
3. Professional Negotiation
Negotiating with insurers requires skill, persistence, and documentation. A public insurance adjuster knows how to counter low offers and present evidence that compels insurers to pay fairly.
4. Time and Stress Relief
Managing a claim is time-consuming and stressful. By letting a public claims adjuster handle the process, you can focus on recovery while knowing your interests are fully protected.
When You Should Hire a Public Claims Adjuster
Not every insurance claim requires outside help. For minor losses, it may make sense to work directly with the insurer. However, in certain situations, hiring a public insurance adjuster is almost always the better option:
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Severe property damage from fires, floods, hurricanes, or other disasters.
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Commercial property claims involving large losses and business interruption.
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Denied or underpaid claims, where the insurer disputes coverage or minimizes payment.
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Complex policies with layered coverages that can be misinterpreted.
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High-value residential claims where the stakes are simply too high to risk mistakes.
How a Public Insurance Adjuster Works
The process of working with a public claims adjuster typically includes:
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Initial Review – Examining your policy to identify coverage opportunities.
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Damage Documentation – Recording all losses with photos, estimates, and professional reports.
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Claim Preparation – Creating a detailed claim package for submission.
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Negotiations – Handling discussions and disputes with the insurer’s insurance claims adjuster.
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Settlement Agreement – Securing a payout that reflects the true value of your damages.
The Investment That Pays for Itself
Some policyholders hesitate to hire a public insurance adjuster because they charge a fee, usually a percentage of the settlement. But here’s the reality:
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Policyholders using a public claims adjuster often receive substantially higher settlements—often enough to more than cover the adjuster’s fee.
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The expertise they bring to the table reduces mistakes that can cost you thousands.
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Their negotiation skills can mean the difference between a denied claim and a life-saving settlement.
Hiring a public adjuster isn’t an expense—it’s an investment in protecting your financial future.
Final Thoughts
When disaster damages your property, you deserve a fair settlement—not just the lowest number your insurer offers. The difference between a company insurance claims adjuster and a public insurance adjuster comes down to loyalty. One protects the insurance company. The other protects you.
A public claims adjuster is your advocate, your negotiator, and your safeguard against unfair treatment. If your claim involves major damage, complex policies, or disputes with your insurer, hiring a public adjuster could be the smartest decision you make.
Don’t let your settlement fall short—trust a public insurance adjuster to fight for every dollar you’re entitled to.
