Frequently Asked Questions

There are three types of insurance adjusters.

1) “Company adjuster” means the insurance adjusters who are employees of an insurance company. They represent the interest of the insurance company and are paid by the insurance company. They will not charge you a fee.  

(2) “Independent adjuster” means the insurance adjusters who are hired on a contract basis by an insurance company to represent the insurance company’s interest in the settlement of the claim. They are paid by your insurance company. They will not charge you a fee.  

(3) “Public adjuster” means the insurance adjusters who do not work for any insurance company. They work for the insured to assist in the preparation, presentation and settlement of the claim. The insured hires them by signing a contract agreeing to pay them a fee or commission based on a percentage of the settlement, or other method of compensation.

• evaluating an insurance policy in order to determine what coverage(s) may be applicable;
•  researching, detailing, and substantiating damage to buildings and contents and any additional expenses incurred by the policyholder; 
• evaluating business interruption losses and extra expense claims for businesses;
•  determining values for settling covered damage claims; 
• preparing, documenting and supporting the claim(s) on behalf of the policyholder;
•   negotiating a settlement with the insurance company on behalf of the policyholder.

NO, is the simple answer, BUT going at it alone can cost the average home/business owner thousand of dollars in unclaimed damages that our professionals will not miss. At R.L.C. Public Adjusting we have 20+ years experience in the construction industry and we have gone through extensive training  such as HAAG and ICA home inspector courses, so we know what your insurance company is looking for and what damages will be covered. 

Yes, insurance companies can raise rates for policyholders in areas that have experienced a natural disaster. When a region is affected by a significant natural disaster, such as a hurricane, wildfire, or flood, insurance companies may adjust their rates to account for the increased risk in that area. These rate increases can affect both homeowners and renters insurance.

Insurance companies use actuarial data and risk assessments to determine rates, and they take into account historical data on natural disasters, the potential for future events, and the associated costs of providing coverage in high-risk areas. If your area has been prone to natural disasters, you may see rate increases as a result.

It's important to stay informed about any changes in your insurance rates and to discuss any concerns or questions with your insurance provider or agent. Additionally, you may want to explore options such as disaster mitigation efforts or shopping for insurance with different providers to find the best coverage and rates for your specific situation.

Yes, it's possible for an insurance company to raise your rates after you've filed a claim for a loss to your home. This practice is often referred to as "rate surcharging" or "rate increases after a claim." The extent of the increase and whether it will happen depends on various factors, including your insurance company's policies, the nature and frequency of your claims, and the terms of your policy. It's essential to review your insurance policy and discuss any potential rate increases with your insurance agent or company to understand how your specific situation may be affected.