Public insurance adjusters help homeowners and business owners file claims with their insurance companies in the event of a disaster. They help clients every step of the way after natural disasters or other property damage circumstances to get them the best payout. As opposed to working on behalf of an insurance company, a public insurance adjuster works for the homeowner or business owner.
While there are plenty of reasons you could hire a public insurance adjuster, only a few of the major reasons to hire are described below.
1. Fire and Smoke Damage
Fire and smoke damage can be caused by anything from a faulty outlet to cooking on the stove. Serious damage can come from fire burning or melting your personal or business property, while smoke damage can cause corrosion and even health issues over time. Smoke particles themselves contain toxic ingredients like carbon monoxide. This can be a costly fix.
A public insurance adjuster for fire and smoke damage will assess the damages based on the insurance coverage you have. They can walk you through preparing the claim documents and ensure that you are maximizing the benefits of your policy.
2. Water Damage
Water damage can be caused by anything from a leaking fridge to a hurricane. It can rot hardwood floors, damage electrical appliances, and create mold within your home or business. The result of even minor water damage can be severe because of its ability to seep into every crack and crevice of your residence or business. For this reason, it’s important to take a full inventory and an in-depth assessment of your property. A public insurance adjuster with experience can ensure that you do not miss anything that could be covered under your policy.
3. Snow and Ice Damage
The water from snow and ice can seep into cracks in your home or business, while it can also cause trees or branches to fall which could damage your property. Frozen pipes and ice dams are other problems you may experience during a major snowstorm. If your home or business is in an area that experiences harsh or unpredictable winters, you will want to make sure that you have enough insurance coverage to help you in the event of a disaster.
4. Hurricane Damage
Hurricane season can cause a multitude of problems for your property. Everything from downed trees to water damage to fires could result from a hurricane. If flooding occurs, it could cause a fire in your home or business by impacting your electricity. Lightning striking the home could cause fires, flooding could cause water damage, and fallen trees could harm your roof. Even the high winds from a hurricane are enough to cause serious damage.
In most areas where hurricane are prevalent, homeowners and business owners are equipped with hurricane insurance to protect their property. However, during a natural disaster, it can be overwhelming to assess that damage by yourself. Public insurance adjusters are with you every step of the way to ensure that you maximize the benefits of your insurance policy.
5. Vandalism
Although there are ways to prevent vandalism, nobody is ever fully prepared. You may not even be aware of what your insurance policy covers in terms of vandalism. It can also be a scary experience when your property is vandalized. Having a public insurance adjuster by your side during this time can help relieve some of the stress you may have when dealing with your property damage.
6. Theft
A public insurance adjuster can help you get compensated for stolen items from your home or business. You could also experience property damage from theft if the intruder forcefully broke into your home or building. The insurance company may not find hidden damage that your public insurance adjuster would. Because they work on your behalf, a public insurance adjuster can conduct a much more in-depth assessment of your property.
7. Tornado Damage
If you live in an area that experiences tornadoes, you are likely prepared with natural disaster insurance that could help you recover. With a public insurance adjuster advocating for you on your behalf, you can ensure that all your damaged property is accounted for. In an area that experienced a tornado, you likely are not the only person trying to get coverage from that insurance company. Having someone advocate on your behalf ensures that nothing gets overlooked, even when the insurance company is swamped with claims.
8. Earthquake Disaster
Is your business or home prepared for an earthquake? Even if it is, earthquakes can still cause damage within your home or business that may be covered under your policy. If you are unsure what is covered under your policy or suspect some damage might be covered, a public insurance adjuster can help you get compensation for repairing or replacing it.
