Questions About Your Property Claim? Start Here.
Ask an AdjusterInsurance claims can be confusing, especially when you’re trying to decide what to do next. Here are straightforward answers to some of the questions Florida property owners ask us most often. If your situation is different, you can always ask us directly.
Will Filing a Claim Affect My Insurance?
Every situation is different, and filing a claim can be one of the concerns homeowners have after property damage. Before making a decision, it helps to understand what happened, review your policy, and determine whether the damage may be covered. A licensed Public Adjuster can help you understand your options so you can make an informed decision about what to do next.
What Should I Do Before Cleaning Up or Making Repairs?
If it’s safe to do so, take photos and video of the damage before cleaning up or making permanent repairs. Protect your property from further damage when necessary, and keep records and receipts for anything you do. Good documentation can help show what happened and what was affected before conditions change.
How does "No Recovery. No Fee" work?
Public Adjusters generally work on a contingency basis, meaning the fee is based on the amount recovered through the claim rather than an hourly charge. Fees and terms can vary depending on the circumstances and are explained before any agreement is signed. There is no charge to contact us and discuss your situation.
What’s the Difference Between a Public Adjuster and the Insurance Company’s Adjuster?
An insurance company’s adjuster evaluates the claim on behalf of the insurance company. A licensed Public Adjuster represents the policyholder and helps document the damage, prepare the claim, and communicate with the insurance company throughout the process. The important difference is simply who each adjuster represents.
What’s the Difference Between a Public Adjuster and an Attorney?
A Public Adjuster helps a policyholder with the insurance claim itself, including documenting damage, preparing the claim, and communicating with the insurance company. An attorney provides legal advice and representation when a matter involves legal issues or requires legal action. Depending on the situation, a homeowner may need one, the other, or occasionally both.
What Is a Virtual Inspection?
A Virtual Inspection is an easy way to get an initial look at your situation without waiting for an on-site visit. You can share photos or video of the visible damage with a licensed Public Adjuster, who can review what you’re seeing, ask questions, and help you understand what your next steps may be. If an on-site inspection is appropriate, that can be discussed with you afterward.
How Is Property Damage Documented?
Good claim documentation may include photographs, measurements, moisture readings, estimates, receipts, and other information relevant to the loss. A Florida Licensed Public Insurance Adjuster can help identify what information may be useful and organize the documentation needed to clearly present your claim.
Why Was My Claim Denied or Underpaid?
Claims can be denied or underpaid for many different reasons. There may be questions about coverage, the cause of the damage, the extent of the loss, or the documentation provided with the claim. A Florida Licensed Public Insurance Adjuster can review the available information and help you better understand the insurance company’s decision and what options may be available.
What Is Hidden Water Damage?
Water can sometimes travel beyond the area where damage is immediately visible, reaching walls, flooring, cabinets, or other materials. Moisture readings, thermal imaging, and a careful inspection can help identify areas that may need further evaluation and documentation.
How long does the claims process take?
Water can sometimes travel beyond the area where damage is immediately visible, reaching walls, flooring, cabinets, or other materials. Moisture readings, thermal imaging, and a careful inspection can help identify areas that may need further evaluation and documentation.
Do I need to hire a contractor before filling a claim?
Not necessarily. Depending on the situation, you may need a contractor or other qualified professional to address emergency repairs or provide specialized services. A Florida Licensed Public Insurance Adjuster can help document the property damage and guide you through the claim process, while contractors focus on repairing or restoring the property.
What areas of Florida do you serve?
We assist property owners with insurance claims throughout Florida. Depending on the location and circumstances of the claim, we can begin with a conversation or virtual review and determine whether an on-site inspection is appropriate.
