FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a "Public Adjuster"?

A Public Adjuster who belongs to the State Association of Public Insurance Adjusters adheres to a strict Code of Ethics and is able to take advantage of the best quality continuing education in the country. Additionally, FAPIA members have a network of resources to best assist you in handling your insurance claim.

There are three types of adjusters licensed by the State of Florida:

Company Adjuster - is employed by the Insurance Company to represent the company in dealing with your loss and damages. The Company Adjusters main responsibility if to protect the interests of the Insurance Company.

Independent Adjuster - is hired by the Insurance Company to represent the company in dealing with your loss and damages. The Independent Adjusters main responsibility is to protect the interests of the Insurance Company.

Public Adjuster - is the only Adjuster specifically licensed by the State of Florida to represent you, the Insured. The Public Adjusters main responsibility is to protect you and your interests in claims against a loss with the Insurance Company.


Why Hire a Public Adjuster?
If you have just suffered an insurance loss, from a fire, hurricane or some other traumatic event, you may not feel confident in representing yourself and your interests before an Insurance Company. Consider these three points.
 
It is up to you to prove the extent of your loss to the Insurance Company..
A typical insurance policy is dozens of pages long and contains numerous provisions and stipulations – written in technical and legal terms. Additionally, it contains various forms and endorsements which are constantly changing from year to year. Most Insureds have difficulty in understanding all of them. To be compensated for your loss, there are certain conditions which must be satisfied – Failure to do so could reduce your settlement amount or even cause your claim to be denied.
 
No matter how organized you and your documentation is, filing and receiving payment on a claim can be a time consuming and tedious process.
If you are not sufficiently organized and your loss documented, you may not realize the compensation you have paid for and are entitled to receive.

A Public Adjuster has the experience, knowledge and expertise to obtain your maximum entitlements under your policy.
Remember that the Insurance Company Adjuster is representing the insurance company. It is not uncommon for the Insurance company to misinterpret their own insurance policy or forget to apply case law or Florida Statutes which supersede their own policy. A Public Adjuster will know current laws as they affect insurance losses and how to best represent you. A Public Adjuster has resources to help you through the maze of estimating, documenting, and filing your insurance claims.


What is a "F.A.P.I.A." Public Adjuster?

A Public Adjuster who belongs to the State Association of Public Insurance Adjusters adheres to a strict Code of Ethics and is able to take advantage of the best quality continuing education in the country. Additionally, FAPIA members have a network of resources to best assist you in handling your insurance claim. 


Can I prepare my own claim?

Yes you can. Be prepared to document all aspects of your loss, and follow through with the agent and the company. However, if your loss is significant (more than $10,000) you should consider hiring your own expert Public Adjuster to receive your full entitlements. Remember, the insurance company has their own expert representing them.


Why should I hire a FAPIA Public Insurance Adjuster to get what is rightfully mine?

Many people have difficulty understanding the technical language of an insurance policy and the complicated procedures they must follow to comply with the policy’s terms. This problem is magnified when you have suffered a loss and are emotional about the situation. That is a perfect time to have an experienced professional on your side whose sole responsibility in the matter is to serve you, the Insured. The insurance company certainly has an experienced professional working for them.


How Much Do Public Adjusters Charge for Their Services?

Public Adjusters charge a percentage of the settlement for their service to you. The Public Adjuster is not paid until you are paid. There are no upfront fees for their services. Percentages vary from adjuster to adjuster, so it is best to shop for the best adjuster for you.


Are Public Adjusters Trained Specialists?

Your FAPIA Public Adjuster is tested, licensed, bonded and authorizes to practice the profession. By attending bi-annual conferences, FAPIA members continue their professional education to keep up with the ever-changing Insurance Industry. They subscribed to constant emails bringing them up-to-date on a monthly and weekly basis. Their network of contacts means the best support staff and contacts will be working for you.


Are Public Adjusters Affiliated with Insurance Companies?

No they are not. Their services are available only to the Insured public, not the insurance company.

What should I consider when hiring a Public Adjuster?

Here’s a short list of things to consider—
License – make sure their license is up-to-date with the State of Florida and make sure they are really a licenses Public Adjuster. Some people are misrepresented themselves as Public Adjusters.

Experience – Public Adjusters come from a wide range of backgrounds – see if who you are considering has the right mix for you.

Professionalism – Do not sign blank contracts. A professional Public Adjuster will explain the fee structure up-front so you understand why and what you’re are paying for.

Comfort Level – This intangible may be quite important if your claim is complex or extensive. This person will be helping you through a very traumatic time and resolving the claim could take some time…find someone who fits your needs.

 

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