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Avoid Scammers
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HOW TO SPOT A BUSINESS OR INDIVIDUAL
WHO IS NOT A LICENSED PUBLIC ADJUSTER
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“Bring us in for a free inspection and we will give you cash!”
“We will get your insurance to pay for a new roof!” |
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It is an unfortunate fact that there are companies and individuals who, under the guise of public adjusters or pretending to have similar authority, prey upon consumers in their time of need. They may sound convincing and their offers may be enticing, but do not be fooled. Not only would you be placing your claim in the wrong hands, but you’d also be supporting an illegal and fraudulent practice that unfairly drives up overall insurance costs and mars the face of an industry of licensed practitioners who fight for the rights of consumers.
To quote Florida law, “no person, except an attorney at law or a public adjuster, may for money, commission, or any other thing of value, directly or indirectly:
(a) Prepare, complete, or file an insurance claim for an insured or a third-party claimant;
(b) Act on behalf of or aid an insured or a third-party claimant in negotiating for or effecting the settlement of a claim for loss or damage covered by an insurance contract;
(c) Advertise for employment as a public adjuster; or
(d) Solicit, investigate, or adjust a claim on behalf of a public adjuster, an insured, or a third-party claimant.”
(b) Act on behalf of or aid an insured or a third-party claimant in negotiating for or effecting the settlement of a claim for loss or damage covered by an insurance contract;
(c) Advertise for employment as a public adjuster; or
(d) Solicit, investigate, or adjust a claim on behalf of a public adjuster, an insured, or a third-party claimant.”
To put it simply, unlicensed practice of public adjusting is a felony!
Here are some tips for spotting a business or individual who is not licensed to represent you as a public adjuster or to help you file a claim. Many of these “bad actors” will approach you unsolicited, especially during hurricane season.
- They call themselves “loss consultants” or “insurance specialists,” or work for an “inspection and insurance division.”
- The business is a “restoration” company, but has no one on staff who is a licensed adjuster.
- They make grand promises and statements, such as getting you a “free roof” from your insurance company or a rebate on your insurance deductible.
- They offer you financial kickbacks to file claims, paying you to have them inspect your home for damage or paying you a fee for referring your friends and family.
- They are a roofing or other construction contractor offering to directly file or negotiate with your insurance company or to fight denied claims on your behalf
Before moving forward on a claim, always verify the insurance adjuster’s license (both the public adjuster as well as the adjuster hired by the insurance company). You can do this easily by visiting BeClaimSmart.com
If you come across or unfortunately become a victim of unlicensed practice,
please report it (it’s illegal!) and share your story with us.
please report it (it’s illegal!) and share your story with us.
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Avoid Scammers
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