Who pays for a public adjuster?

Technically, the policy holder pays the public adjuster, but most public adjusters charge a percentage of the final settlement. This means it is in the public adjuster’s best interest to get the policy holder the largest settlement possible. Though it might seem counterintuitive to pay a third-party when you are trying to maximize your compensation, the chances you will be treated fairly are increased when working with a public adjuster.

Who pays for a public adjuster?

Technically, the policy holder pays the public adjuster, but most public adjusters charge a percentage of the final settlement. This means it is in the public adjuster’s best interest to get the policy holder the largest settlement possible. Though it might seem counterintuitive to pay a third-party when you are trying to maximize your compensation, the chances you will be treated fairly are increased when working with a public adjuster.

Why do I need a public adjuster?

Insurance companies have adjusters working on their behalf and you deserve the same. A public adjuster interprets your insurance policy to determine what coverage you are entitled to and provides an analysis of the losses. Essentially, they are ensuring that you are treated fairly by the insurance company and that you get what you deserve. They might also have access to resources that can help you better support claim.

Why do I need help in filing an insurance claim?

It is possible to file your insurance claim on your own, but it is not advisable. This is because the average policyholder does not have the resources or experience that insurance company representatives have. As a policyholder, you deserve to have someone in your corner protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation to which you are entitled. And because insurance policies are often complex and ambiguous, it helps to have someone with knowledge to help you sort through the details.

Will you help me receive a more prompt and satisfactory settlement?

Public adjusters do everything they can to ensure that policyholders receive a fair settlement as quickly as possible. Working with a public adjuster might extend the period of time it takes to ultimately settle your claim because of negotiations, but it will shorten the period of time it would take to negotiate a fair settlement on your own. Insurance companies want to settle for as little as possible as fast as possible and this results in cheating policyholders. Public adjusters protect against this.

What type of claims do you handle?

We are able to assist you in with claims related to a variety of different types of damage to your property, including fire and smoke, water damage from flooding or plumbing issues, sinkhole damage, and damage from weather or wind. If any type of manmade or natural disaster has caused damage to your property, it is a good idea to speak to a public adjuster so they can determine if your policy covers the damage.

My insurance claim is underway and I received an offer from my insurance company but I’m worried that the settlement amount is too low. Is it too late to hire a public adjuster?

No, it is not too late. As a matter of fact, you should have someone review the offer to make sure it is fair. If it is your first offer from the insurance company, chances are it is much lower than what you deserve and a public adjuster can help you determine a fair amount you should be seeking. A public adjuster can also help you negotiate the claim settlement and quickly settle the claim for the maximum amount.

Will I get a higher settlement if I hire a public adjuster?

Possibly. It is in the best interest of the public adjuster to get you as large of a settlement as possible because they receive their payment as a percentage of your settlement. Though working with a public adjuster does not guarantee a higher settlement, it increases the odds of getting one and ensures that the settlement you ultimately receive will be fair and based on the compensation you are entitled to as a result of your policy.

What is the difference between a Public Adjuster and the insurance company’s adjuster?

The primary difference is that a public adjuster is your advocate while an insurance company’s adjuster is working for the insurance company. Though it might seem as if the insurance company’s adjuster is in your corner, they are not. He or she is an employee of the insurance company and will do everything possible to protect the insurance company’s bottom line. A public adjuster is there to ensure you are treated fairly and that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

Will I lose my coverage if I hire a Public Adjuster?

No. Hiring a public adjuster is perfectly legal and a perfectly normal thing to do. Insurance companies know that policyholders are entitled to working with their own adjuster, but it is not something they are going to encourage. However, they are not able to punish you by dropping coverage or increasing your rates if you choose to work with a public adjuster, even if they would prefer you not do so.

Renters Insurance: Why You Need It - LMR Public Insurance

As a tenant investing in your current address is not something on your mind… but it should be. Why you ask. Well because while your dwelling space may not belong to you the contents of it do and those belongings need coverage.

Your landlord should have property insurance to cover the structure of your rental property (something to be sure to check in on before signing your lease) but that insurance won’t cover your personal belongings.

Before you write this off, let’s start with saying that renters insurance is a very small fee in proportion to what your belongings would cost to replace. It can be as little as $10 a month and usually not more than $30 a month. Yes, it adds up over time, but it’s a considerably small price to pay for peace of mind.

If the cost of replacing your personal belongings isn’t something you’ve thought about in the past take a moment to make a list of what you own or at least the essential things that would need to be replaced in the case of destruction to your rental property. Include things like your computer, clothing, furniture, jewelry, kitchen appliances, sports equipment, tablet, television and anything else of value. You might be surprised to see how expensive these items will be to replace.

Another thing to consider is liability protection in case someone is injured on the property. This one can cost more than anything else and is a reason in and of itself to get protection.

Sold yet? Great!

Now what next? First get a quote. To find out more about how to get renters insurance you might want to first ask the agent you use for your car insurance. Having multiple policies with one company may be more cost effective for you. To be sure you’re getting the best deal though, shop around. Many insurance companies give quotes via their website.

Next you’ll want to review the fine print of your policy. Be sure that you’re policy covered specific “perils” such as:

Fire
Hurricane
Liability Protection (be sure that you include coverage for legal fees for yourself in these situations and medical expenses for injuries that occur on your rental property for anyone who doesn’t live with you)
Lighting
Mold
Smoke
Theft
Vandalism
Water damage
Windstorm

Last but not least, take photos and make an itemized list of your belongings (including receipts). Be sure to store this list somewhere else as it won’t help you much if it’s destroyed along with your belongings!

That’s it! Easier than you thought, right? Now you can rest assured knowing you are covered if the need ever arises.

Testimonials

Extremely knowledgeable and professional firm. The employees are fast, efficient and a joy to work with. We would not have been able to rebuild our home after Hurricane Sally without them. Highly recommend their services.

- Jennifer Medeiros

LMR is the best! Thorough, efficient and quite effective, in every way. Guy Hendel is our hero for the profession of public adjuster.

- Ronald Brauner

LMR Public adjusters did an amazing job for us, we're very pleased and impressed with their professionalism and prompt execution of our insurance claim.Special shout-out to Leor, our adjuster; very knowledgeable, diligent, organized. kept us informed each step of the way, he's a pleasure to work with. Most important; he gets results!! Thank you again

- Roy Shriki

Very efficient and easy to work with. Responsive and all around had a great experience with our claim. Highly recommend, as they are experts in the business!

- Narmar Hanna

Renters Insurance: Why You Need It

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