Hiring someone to handle your claim for you
Published May 30, 2026
A public adjuster is a licensed professional you can hire to document, file, and negotiate an insurance claim on your behalf. Unlike the insurer's adjuster, a public adjuster works for you — for a fee, usually a percentage of the settlement.
What they do
A public adjuster reviews your policy, documents the damage, prepares the claim, and negotiates with the insurer. They are most often used for larger or complex property claims where the amount in dispute is significant.
How they are paid
Public adjusters typically charge a percentage of the claim settlement, which is set by your agreement and sometimes capped by state law. That fee reduces your net recovery, so it matters most on larger claims.
When to consider one
A public adjuster may help when a claim is large, complex, or disputed and you do not have time or expertise to manage it. For small, straightforward claims, the fee may outweigh the benefit.
Frequently asked questions
＋ How is a public adjuster different from the insurer's adjuster?
The insurer's adjuster represents the insurance company. A public adjuster works for you, documenting and negotiating the claim on your behalf for a fee.
＋ How much does a public adjuster cost?
They typically charge a percentage of the settlement, set by your agreement and sometimes limited by state law. The fee reduces your net recovery.
＋ When should I hire a public adjuster?
They can help with large, complex, or disputed claims you do not have time or expertise to manage. For small, simple claims, the fee may outweigh the benefit.
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Educational content only — not legal, financial, or insurance advice. Requirements and pricing vary by state.