If you're familiar with the job of an insurance claim adjuster, it's probably due to working with a person hired by an insurance company when you were dealing with a claim. This individual assesses the validity of the proposed claim and proposes a settlement offer if the claim checks out. That settlement offer is based on experience, company data, and the nature of the incident that led to the claim.

What often comes as a surprise to folks, though, is that they also have the right to hire an adjuster. Such a person is referred to as a public insurance claim adjuster, and they can be very useful. Let's explore what a public insurance adjuster does and how one might assist you.

An Independent Opinion

There's a lot to be said for simply getting an independent assessment of the situation. If you hire an adjuster, they will be there to represent your interests. They'll provide you with an honest sense of what your claim is worth, and they'll help you to understand how the insurance company is likely to deal with your concerns. Instead of relying on your best guess or what the insurer's adjuster says, you'll have an opinion that's independent and professional.

Inspecting Property

One of the biggest advantages of working with a public insurance claim adjuster is that they have the knowledge of how to look at the damaged property. They also have established relationships with experts who can be leaned on to provide opinions about items that are less common, such as antiques and collections. By looking closely, they may be able to identify issues that you or even the insurance company's adjuster may have missed.

Documentation

When filing an insurance claim, there's no substitute for detailed documentation. This includes collecting estimates for repairing or replacing items. If the case involves an auto accident, they can help you read through the details of the police report to figure out what happened.

Negotiations

It's not unusual for people to be dissatisfied with insurance settlement offers, but how do they counter? A public insurance adjuster can guide you through the negotiation process. They'll help you assemble your counteroffer and present it to the insurance carrier.

Getting Work Done

Adjusters also know the local businesses that do repair work. If you need a contractor to handle a damaged roof, for example, they can point you to one who'll handle the job competently and honestly.

To learn more, contact someone like Anthony Ricciardi Licensed Public Insurance Adjuster.