How to Hire a Public Adjuster You Can Trust
If your home has been damaged by a storm, fire, or flood, you may already know that a public adjuster can help you get a fair insurance settlement. But how do you make sure you are choosing the right one?
With so many companies out there and unfortunately, a few bad actors it’s important to know how to hire a public adjuster you can trust. This guide will walk you through the process of finding a reputable adjuster, what to look for, and the red flags to avoid.
What Does a Public Adjuster Do?
A public adjuster is a licensed professional who works for you the policyholder to document, prepare, and negotiate your property damage insurance claim. Their job is to:
- Assess the full extent of your damage
- Interpret your insurance policy
- Handle all communication with the insurance company
- Maximize your payout
Hiring a good adjuster can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. But hiring the wrong one can delay your recovery or worse, cost you money and time.
How to Find a Public Adjuster
If you are wondering how to find a public adjuster, here are the top ways homeowners start their search:
1. Ask for Referrals
Talk to family, friends, neighbors, or contractors who have filed insurance claims. A trusted recommendation goes a long way.
2. Read Online Reviews
Search Google, Yelp, or Better Business Bureau listings. Look for consistent, recent reviews that mention clear communication, professionalism, and strong results.
3. Check Professional Directories
Most states have a licensing board or insurance department website where you can verify a public adjuster’s license and check for complaints or disciplinary actions.
How to Hire a Public Adjuster You Can Trust: 7 Key Tips
1. Verify Licensing
In Georgia and Tennessee, public adjusters must be licensed by the state. Ask for a license number and verify it through the state insurance department’s website.
Pro tip: Be wary of anyone who refuses to show proof of licensure.
2. Ask About Experience and Specialization
Look for an adjuster with experience handling claims similar to yours whether it’s storm damage, fire, water intrusion, or roof failures.
Spartan Public Adjusters, for example, specializes in residential property claims and large-loss recovery across Georgia and Tennessee.
3. Review the Contract Carefully
A trustworthy public adjuster will provide a written contract that clearly outlines their fee (typically a contingency percentage), services, and cancellation rights.
Avoid anyone who pressures you to sign immediately or doesn’t explain the terms.
4. Ask About Their Communication Style
You deserve regular updates and responsive communication. During the interview, pay attention to how quickly and clearly the adjuster answers your questions.
5. Understand the Fee Structure
Most public adjusters charge only if they recover money for you usually 5% to 20% of the settlement. Make sure you understand what that percentage is and whether it changes based on the stage of your claim.
6. Request References
Reputable adjusters should be happy to provide contact information for previous clients. Speaking with someone who had a positive experience can help give you peace of mind.
7. Avoid Red Flags
Be cautious if the adjuster:
- Offers to do repairs in addition to adjusting (that’s a conflict of interest)
- Asks for payment upfront
- Won’t put anything in writing
- Shows up at your door unsolicited after a storm (storm chasers)
Why Spartan Public Adjusters Is a Trusted Choice
At Spartan Public Adjusters, we believe trust is earned and we earn it by being:
- Licensed and insured in both Georgia and Tennessee
- Transparent about our fees, process, and expectations
- Results-driven, with a track record of significantly increasing settlements
- Responsive and professional, from the first call to the final check
We will guide you through the claims process with speed, discipline, and integrity.
Need help with your claim? Contact Spartan Public Adjusters today.
Spartan Public Adjusters, LLC
(470) 870-7044
info@spartanpublicadjusters.com
