The best way to locate an excellent public adjuster can be found through the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters. NAPIA can provide referrals in every state that licenses public adjusters. The Public Insurance Adjuster is the only adjuster who is licensed to represent the insured in a claim for property. Currently more than 43 states plus the District of Columbia require an adjuster with this license in order for them to be able to act on behalf of the insurance company.

A professionally trained public insurance adjuster will serve as your advocate and assist you navigate the insurance maze so that you can get the entire amount due to you under your insurance policy. However, there are many steps to be taken before you can get paid including valuing the loss and giving it to the insurance company and negotiating an agreement. Insurance policies are complex and are conditional. Therefore, full settlement of a loss is not automatic.

Public adjusters can help identify the coverages and the causes of the loss to evaluate the carrier's offer or refusal.

After a disaster, fire victims are often bombarded by offers and inquires from general contractors and public adjusters, as well as other companies offering to help. This is normal. If you're being contacted doesn't necessarily mean that they're doing anything wrong. But, you must be aware and conduct your due diligence before making a decision to sign up for their services.

If the adjusters who represent you aren't members of NAPIA, (National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters,) be wary.. They might not possess the necessary legal or insurance knowledge to adequately represent you. Here are some warning indicators:

1. They make huge promises but do not offer any assurances.

2. Their fees are outrageous. Most legit Public Insurance Adjusters fees range between 5% to 12% with an average of around 10%. Certain public adjusters charge more for smaller claims, or when they are employed midway through the process of settling claims.

3. If you are pressured to take a decision quickly then run. The legitimate PAs understand that the decision to appoint someone to represent you to help you get your life and home back together is a momentous one. This is not a decision that should be made quickly. This could be one of the biggest financial choices you'll make in your life. Take your time and make sure you feel comfortable with the adjuster that you hire.

4. Visit their website and address. If they don't have any documents other than a business card, be extremely cautious. If all they have is a PO box this may be another alarming sign.

5. It is usually better to hire someone local. Someone who is familiar with the local market for housing and rebuilding costs, Public Adjuster who understands the strengths of the community and how to leverage these resources. A locally based PA may also have worked with representatives from the largest insurance companies in the area and could be able to cut through the red tape and bureaucracy to ensure you get what is owed to you faster.