Navigating Insurance Claims: Can You Complete Home Repairs Yourself and Benefit from an Insurance Claim?

Many individuals describe their insurance experience as a full-time job. The claims process involves legwork, paperwork, basic math, insurance terminology, and coordination. Listing, describing, and estimating everything that was damaged or destroyed, meeting with adjusters, investigators, and contractors, and evaluating reports and estimates is time-consuming work. Moreover, negotiating a fair claim settlement can be extremely challenging, especially after a stressful disaster.

However, insurance is big business, and you are not on a level playing field with a major insurance company. You may find that learning the language, doing the calculations, and ensuring your claim is thoroughly researched and fairly paid is too much to handle alone. Depending on your circumstances and current obligations, including your own work duties, it might not be feasible to manage on your own.

When you file a claim, you might be able to handle it alone, or you might benefit from hiring help. It's a personal decision based on your needs. A licensed Public Adjuster can be your representative and advocate during the process of getting your claim "adjusted" (handled) and "settled" (paid).

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Public Adjuster

1. Are you licensed to practice in my state?

   Ensure you are hiring a licensed Public Adjuster. Ask to see their individual Public Adjuster’s license. Some Public Adjusters work under the license of another individual or firm, rather than being independently qualified and credentialed. Ideally, the PA you hire should be experienced, local, and/or associated with a reputable local organization.

2. Will you personally handle my claim?

   Are you meeting the actual person(s) who will handle the claim, or is the person just an agent who will pass your case to someone else?

3. How many cases are you currently handling?

   If a PA takes on more cases than they can manage, you won’t get the attention and care you need.

4. Tell me about your claim adjusting and damage assessment skills, certifications, and experience.

   How long have they been licensed as a Public Adjuster, and how long have they been practicing in your state?

5. Can you provide three references from local clients who were satisfied with your work?

   The PA should be able to provide at least three people to call, email, or visit to ask whether they were happy with the PA’s previous work. Try to get references that are current—within the past two or three years.