Dealing with an insurance claim can be overwhelming—especially when it gets denied or underpaid. Whether it’s damage from a storm, fire, flood, or plumbing failure, you expect your insurance policy to provide the financial protection you need. However, insurance companies sometimes undervalue claims, delay payments, or outright deny valid claims, leaving homeowners and business owners struggling to cover repair costs.
If you’ve received a lowball settlement or a claim denial, you don’t have to accept it without a fight. A licensed public adjuster can advocate on your behalf, ensuring you get the full and fair payout you deserve.
What Is a Public Adjuster?
A public adjuster is a state-licensed insurance claims professional who represents policyholders in negotiating property damage claims. Unlike adjusters hired by the insurance company (who protect the insurer’s interests), public adjusters work exclusively for you, ensuring that your claim is properly documented and maximized.
If you’re in Texas, you can learn more about licensed adjusters from the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI).
What Does a Public Adjuster Do?
A public adjuster handles all aspects of your claim, including:
✔️ Assessing Property Damage – Conducting a thorough inspection and identifying damages that the insurance company may have missed.
✔️ Reviewing Your Insurance Policy – Analyzing your policy’s coverage, exclusions, and limitations.
✔️ Gathering Evidence – Compiling photos, reports, repair estimates, and other documentation to support your claim.
✔️ Negotiating with the Insurance Company – Communicating directly with your insurer to demand a fair settlement.
✔️ Appealing Denied or Underpaid Claims – Challenging unfair claim decisions and pushing for a higher payout.
If you believe your insurance company isn’t offering a fair settlement, hiring a public adjuster can help ensure your rights are protected.
Why Do Insurance Claims Get Denied or Underpaid?
Insurance companies use various reasons to deny or reduce payouts, some of which may not be entirely fair. Here are some common reasons claims are denied or underpaid:
1. Inadequate Documentation
One of the most common reasons for claim denial is a lack of proper documentation. Insurers require detailed evidence of damages, including photos, repair estimates, and proof of loss. If your claim doesn’t meet their documentation requirements, they may reject it or offer a lower payout.
2. Policy Exclusions or Ambiguities
Insurance policies contain complex language, exclusions, and limitations that can be difficult to interpret. Some insurers use vague wording to deny coverage or argue that certain damages fall under policy exclusions. A public adjuster can help you interpret policy terms and fight for rightful compensation.
3. Lowball Estimates from Insurance Adjusters
Insurance company adjusters may provide repair estimates that are significantly lower than the actual cost of fixing your property. In some cases, they rely on preferred contractors who undervalue the repairs to save the insurance company money. A public adjuster can obtain independent estimates to challenge these low offers.
4. Delayed or Incomplete Investigations
Insurers sometimes delay claim processing or conduct incomplete investigations to reduce payout amounts. Public adjusters ensure that your claim is handled promptly and thoroughly, preventing unnecessary delays.
5. Bad Faith Insurance Practices
Some insurance companies act in bad faith by unfairly denying claims, delaying payments, or misleading policyholders about coverage. If you suspect your insurer is acting dishonestly, a public adjuster can hold them accountable and help you file a complaint with regulatory agencies like the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).
How a Public Adjuster Helps You Get a Fair Settlement
If your claim has been denied or underpaid, a public adjuster can help you maximize your settlement. Here’s how:
1. Reviewing Your Insurance Policy
A public adjuster will analyze your policy and explain your coverage, exclusions, and entitlements, ensuring you understand what your insurer should be paying.
2. Conducting a Comprehensive Damage Assessment
Unlike insurance company adjusters—who often underestimate damages—public adjusters perform thorough inspections to ensure every loss is accounted for.
3. Handling Paperwork and Claim Filings
Filing an insurance claim requires extensive documentation, and missing details can lead to claim denial. Public adjusters prepare, organize, and submit all necessary paperwork, reducing errors and delays.
4. Negotiating a Higher Payout
Most policyholders accept the first settlement offer from their insurer without realizing they have negotiation power. Public adjusters use industry expertise, repair cost estimates, and legal knowledge to push for a higher settlement amount.
5. Appealing Denied or Underpaid Claims
If your claim has been wrongfully denied, a public adjuster will challenge the decision, providing additional evidence and arguments to get your claim reconsidered.
When Should You Hire a Public Adjuster?
Hiring a public adjuster is beneficial if:
✔️ Your claim was denied or underpaid
✔️ Your insurance company’s offer seems too low
✔️ Your claim involves major damages (fire, flood, storm, mold, etc.)
✔️ You feel overwhelmed by the claims process
✔️ You need a professional advocate to fight for you
Public adjusters typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive a higher settlement. This makes their services low-risk for homeowners and businesses.
If you’re in Texas and need assistance, TX Public Adjusting offers expert claims assistance to help you maximize your settlement.
How to Find a Licensed Public Adjuster
Not all adjusters are created equal. It’s essential to work with a licensed and reputable public adjuster to avoid scams. Here are some ways to verify credentials:
Check state licensing agencies – Verify an adjuster’s license with the Texas Department of Insurance or your state’s insurance department.
Look for professional associations – Organizations like the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) ensure high ethical standards among adjusters.
Read reviews and testimonials – Check online reviews and ask for referrals from past clients.
Avoid adjusters who demand upfront fees – Reputable adjusters only get paid if you receive a higher settlement.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Rights and Get the Compensation You Deserve
Filing an insurance claim shouldn’t feel like a battle, but unfortunately, many policyholders struggle with denied or underpaid claims. A public adjuster can make a significant difference by ensuring that you receive the maximum settlement allowed under your policy.
If you believe your insurance company is shortchanging you, don’t settle for less. Contact a licensed public adjuster to review your claim, negotiate on your behalf, and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Need expert claims assistance? TX Public Adjusting is here to help Texas homeowners and businesses fight for fair settlements.
With the right support, you can overcome insurance claim challenges and recover the funds needed to rebuild and restore your property.
