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Q1: When should I file a property insurance claim?
A: When damage occurs to your home or business that's covered by your insurance policy – ex: fire, hurricane, windstorm, lightning, water damage, mold, etc. – you are entitled to file a claim. The settlement amount should cover repairing the damage.

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Q2: What happens when I file a claim?
A: Your Insurance Company sends their adjuster to assess your property damage, “adjust” the values and settle your claim.

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Q3: So why hire a Public Adjuster? Won’t my Insurance Company’s adjuster give me the money I need?
A: Your Insurance Company's adjuster represents the Insurance Company - which is in business to make profit. A Public Adjuster represents you, the Policyholder.

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Q4: What exactly is a Public Adjuster?
A: A Public Adjuster is a state-licensed and bonded professional insurance expert with extensive knowledge of insurance policies, types of property damage, and actual repair and replacement costs. P.A.’s know how to find hidden damages, appraise a loss and negotiate the highest settlement with your Insurance Company – typically far more than a property owner can get for himself.

Just as you wouldn’t negotiate a lawsuit without an Attorney representing you, or undergo an IRS audit without your Accountant, it’s similarly wise to have a Public Adjuster represent you in negotiating an insurance claim.

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Q5: Do I have to pay an up-front fee?
A: No. We earn a standard percentage of the settlement we collect for you from your Insurance Company. Maximizing your settlement usually covers our fee and more, plus saves you the work. Our policy: no recovery, no fee.

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Q6: So what does a Public Adjuster do?
A: We physically inspect your property and evaluate its damage against the detailed provisions of your insurance policy. We evaluate both visible and hidden damages, prepare proofs of loss, and obtain repair and replacement estimates. When necessary we call in licensed contractors, engineers, experts in water extraction and mold testing, etc. We communicate with your Insurance Company's representatives, meet with them on your behalf, and negotiate a fair settlement to restore your property to its pre-loss condition. If your Insurance Company refuses fair payment, we’ll go to appraisal or mediation, or retain an attorney to collect your settlement.

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Q7: I filed a claim and it was denied. Can it be re-opened?
A: Absolutely. You're allowed up to 5 years from the date of loss to re-open a claim. Sometimes damage that at first seems minor can escalate to more serious damage, like mold. We regularly reopen or file supplemental claims.

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Q8: At what point should I call in a Public Adjuster?
A: We strongly recommend that you contact us before calling in your claim to your Insurance Company or agent. We will immediately file the claim and expedite the claim process. It is vital for us to be present at the Insurance Company's first inspection. Their adjuster - who represents the Insurance Company's interests - may leave things out. We make sure that all damages and details are properly documented, which is crucial to proving your claim. If your property needs repairs, documentation must be complete before any repairs are made, as the exact damage can't easily be proven again.

For these reasons we strongly prefer to file your claim from the beginning. However, we will also represent you if your claim is denied or closed.

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Q9: Do I need a public adjuster to file an insurance claim?
A: No. But it's very wise. An insurance policy is a contract. Have you read yours? It's made up of clauses, definitions and exclusions. If you don't know the claim game, your odds of collecting what you deserve are slim. See www.DelayDenyDefend.com.

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Q10: Will my Insurance Company be angry if I hire a Public Adjuster?
A: No. Insurance companies are used to working with P.A.'s. They take the claim more seriously when an experienced professional is representing your interests.

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Q11: Let's say a tree fell on my house during a tropical storm. What should I know before taking action?
A: First - take pictures of all damage, both outside and inside the house. Don't remove the tree until you've taken pictures. If water has entered the house, know that mold and mildew can start within 72 hours. This can affect carpet, flooring, sheetrock and insulation. Per your insurance policy, you are responsible for taking measures to prevent further damage. Water extraction is covered by insurance, so know you'll be reimbursed. Also know that if 25% or more of your roof is damaged, per insurance law your entire roof should be replaced.

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Q12: Why shouldn't I just call my insurance agent when I have a claim?
A: Your insurance agent is licensed to sell policies, not to adjust claims. Your agent represents the Insurance Company and will not jeopardize that contractual relationship by aggressively supporting you. A Public Adjuster represents only the Policyholder. We can and will negotiate aggressively on your behalf.

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Q13: If my Insurance Company becomes insolvent, do I still have coverage?
A: Yes – by FIGA. We can file a claim with the Florida Insurance Guarantee Association.

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Q14: I own a commercial property and business. Is there a way to double-check whether I have adequate coverage?
A: Yes. We offer a free Pre-Loss Evaluation for commercial policyholders. We will inspect your property and review your policy to determine if you have adequate coverage. We don't sell insurance; we do this as a service. We'll give you recommendations to discuss with your insurance agent. Don't wait for a claim to find out if you are covered.