The best source to find an experienced public adjuster can be found through the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters. NAPIA can provide referrals in every state that licenses public adjusters. The Public Insurance Adjuster is the only adjuster who is licensed to represent the insured in a claim for property. Currently more than 43 states plus the District of Columbia require an adjuster with this license in order for them to be able to act on behalf of the insurance company.

A professionally trained public insurance adjuster will serve as your advocate and assist you navigate the insurance maze so that you can get the entire amount due to you under your insurance policy. There are a few steps that must be completed before you can be paid by the insurer. These include valuing the loss, presenting it to the insurer and making a settlement. Insurance policies are complex and conditional, full payment for the loss is not guaranteed.

A public adjuster can help identify the coverages and the causes of the loss to evaluate the carrier's offer or refusal.

After a disaster, fire victims are often bombarded by offers and inquires from general contractors and public adjusters, as well as other companies offering to help. This is normal. If you're being contacted doesn't necessarily mean that they're doing anything wrong. But, you must be aware and conduct your due diligence before making a decision to sign up for their services.

If the adjusters who represent you aren't members of NAPIA, (National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters,) be wary.. They might not possess the necessary legal or insurance knowledge to adequately represent you. Here are a few danger indicators:

1. They make big promises, but without any assurances.

2. Their charges are exorbitant. Most legit Public Insurance Adjusters fees range between 5% to 12% with an average of around 10%. Some public adjusters may charge higher fees on smaller claims or when they are employed midway through the process of settling claims.

3. If you are pressured to make a quick decision then run. Professional PAs are aware that the choice to have someone represent you in order to get your home and life back together is a momentous one. This is not a decision that should be taken quickly. This could be one of Insurance the most costly choices you'll make in your life. Take your time and make sure you are at ease with the adjuster you are hiring.

4. Go to their website and address. If they don't possess anything other than an official business card, be very wary. If their only address is a post office box, this could be a red flag.

5. It is generally more beneficial to work with someone who is local. Someone who understands the local market for housing as well as the costs of rebuilding, who knows the resources of the local community and how to make use of them. Locally based PAs may also have prior experience working with representatives of major insurance companies in the area and might be capable of cutting through a lot of the bureaucracy and red tape in order to make sure you receive the money owed to you more quickly.