Hiring a public adjuster to assist with a fire and smoke damage insurance claim can significantly enhance the claims process and increase the likelihood of receiving a fair settlement. Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigating a fire and smoke damage claim with the help of a public adjuster:

Initial Steps After a Fire

1. Ensure Safety:

– Ensure the fire is completely extinguished and it is safe to re-enter the home.

– Be aware of potential health risks from smoke inhalation and soot, and wear protective gear if necessary.

2. Contact Your Insurance Company:

– Notify your insurance company about the fire and initiate the claims process.

– Obtain a claim number and the contact information for the adjuster assigned by your insurance company.

3. Hire a Public Adjuster:

– Research and Select: Choose a licensed and reputable public adjuster with experience handling fire and smoke damage claims.

– Agreement: Sign a contract outlining the public adjuster’s fees and services. Typically, public adjusters charge a percentage of the settlement amount.

Working with the Public Adjuster

1. Initial Consultation:

– Damage Assessment: The public adjuster will visit your property to assess the extent of the damage and discuss your insurance policy coverage.

– Strategy Development: They will develop a strategy for documenting the damage and preparing the claim.

2. Documentation:

– Detailed Inventory: The public adjuster will create a detailed inventory of all damaged or destroyed items, including descriptions, approximate values, and purchase dates.

– Photographs and Videos: They will take comprehensive photographs and videos of all affected areas and items.

– Professional Estimates: The public adjuster may bring in contractors or restoration experts to provide professional estimates for repair and replacement costs.

3. Claim Preparation:

– Claim Form: The public adjuster will help you complete the claim form, ensuring all damage is accurately described and documented.

– Supporting Documents: They will compile all necessary documents, including photos, videos, inventories, and professional assessments.

Filing and Negotiating the Claim

1. Submit the Claim:

The public adjuster will submit the claim to the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring that all required information is included.

They will keep a copy of all submitted documents and maintain a record of communication with the insurance company.

2. Insurance Adjuster Inspection:

Joint Inspection: The public adjuster will accompany the insurance company’s adjuster during the inspection to ensure that all damage is properly noted and assessed.

– Advocacy: They will advocate on your behalf, pointing out damage and providing evidence to support the claim.

3. Negotiation:

– Settlement Offer: After the insurance adjuster provides a settlement offer, the public adjuster will review it and compare it to their assessment.

– Counteroffer: If the offer is insufficient, the public adjuster will negotiate with the insurance company to seek a higher settlement.

– Dispute Resolution: If necessary, the public adjuster can assist in invoking the appraisal clause in your policy or other dispute resolution methods.

Post-Settlement Assistance

1. Review and Finalize:

– Settlement Review: The public adjuster will review the final settlement offer to ensure it covers all documented damage and costs.

– Agreement: Once a fair settlement is reached, they will help you understand and agree to the terms.

2. Rebuilding and Repairs:

– Contractor Selection: The public adjuster may assist in selecting reputable contractors for repairs and rebuilding.

– Monitoring: They can monitor the repair process to ensure work is completed to a high standard and within budget.

Benefits of Hiring a Public Adjuster

1. Expertise and Experience:

– Professional Knowledge: Public adjusters have extensive knowledge of insurance policies, claims processes, and typical tactics insurance companies use.

– Damage Assessment: They are skilled in identifying and documenting all types of fire and smoke damage, including hidden or less obvious damage.

2. Maximized Settlement:

– Comprehensive Documentation: Public adjusters ensure that all damage is documented and included in the claim.

Effective Negotiation: Their expertise in negotiation often results in higher settlements compared to policyholders handling claims independently.

3. Time and Stress Reduction:

– Handling Paperwork: Public adjusters manage all paperwork and communication with the insurance company, reducing the burden on the homeowner.

– Focus on Recovery: Homeowners can focus on recovering and rebuilding, knowing their claim is professionally managed.

Choosing the Right Public Adjuster

1. Check Credentials:

– Licensing: Ensure the public adjuster is licensed in your state.

– Certifications: Look for certifications from reputable industry organizations, such as the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA).

2. Experience:

– Track Record: Choose a public adjuster with a proven track record of successfully handling fire and smoke damage claims.

– Specialization: Consider an adjuster who specializes in the type of damage your home has sustained.

3. References and Reviews:

– Client Testimonials: Check references and read reviews from previous clients to gauge the adjuster’s reputation and service quality.

4. Fees and Contracts:

– Fee Structure: Understand the fee structure, typically a percentage of the claim settlement, and ensure it is clearly outlined in the contract.

– Transparency: Ensure the contract is transparent and accessible to hidden fees.

By leveraging the expertise of a public adjuster, homeowners can more effectively navigate the complexities of fire and smoke damage insurance claims and improve their chances of receiving a fair and adequate settlement.