In a time of destruction, insurers hire professionals called public adjusters on the case to take care of the damage. The public adjuster’s job is to process insurance claims quickly and fairly. They work for both private companies and government agencies in every state. From filing the claim to negotiating a payment, they make sure things go smoothly.
Public adjusters usually begin their careers as assistants and file claims for companies and other agencies. As they gain experience and knowledge, they become full-fledged public adjusters.
The duties of a public adjuster include:
• Taking the claim – filing the claim – making sure that all necessary documents are sent to the insurance company or agency to process the claim properly. Sometimes this involves contacting customers, neighbors, contractors, businesses, or others who may have knowledge about damages to customers’ property.
• Handling the customer – the public adjuster handles all correspondence with the customer to make sure they are properly notified of their claim. They also make sure that their claim is treated fairly and according to policy.
• Preparing a report – a written report about damages, which is sometimes combined with an insurance inspection report. This form lists every item damaged, the cost of repairs, and the expenses of repairs. Public adjusters may give the customer a copy of this report and may require them to sign and notarize it.
• Negotiating with the insurance company – when an insurance company or agency receives the claim, it starts the process of evaluation by studying all-important policy information, such as the location of the property, type of property, and refunds for prior damages. The public adjuster works with the customer and their insurance company to make sure they get a fair settlement. They also negotiate with insurers to make sure that claims are settled in a timely manner.
• Notifying the customer – when negotiations are complete, the public adjuster returns to the customer and informs them of the results. This may take a number of negotiation sessions to reach an agreement and it may include multiple visits and telephone calls.
• Getting paid – when everything is settled, the customer receives a check from their insurance company or agency for any amount that’s been agreed on. They then give the public adjuster a percentage fee based on their contract.
Most public adjusters work on a contingency percentage of the claim. Others charge hourly for their work. The most important aspect of insurance claims is customer service. The public adjuster must always display great patience and courtesy toward the customer at all times in order to earn their trust. They must be able to deal with all kinds of people in any situation. The public adjuster must have good listening skills and be able to explain difficult concepts to customers.
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