Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Public Adjuster?

A public adjuster is a licensed claims professional who advocates for the insured/policyholder in assisting and negotiating their insurance claim. Appointed and regulated by the state of Florida, we are independent of your insurance company and we represent your interests in all claims. Experiencing damage or a loss is a stressful experience, and we are here to help guide you through the process seamlessly.

Why should I hire a Public Adjuster?

Public adjusters handle your claim from start to finish. During a time of loss or damage, we can offer you invaluable knowledge and assistance and make this a stress-free experience. And according to a study by The Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA), policyholders with public adjuster representation lead to higher average payments, most times considerably higher.

When do I contact a Public Adjuster?

It is best to contact us immediately after you have experienced any loss or damages that will lead to an insurance claim. Often times these claims are complex, and homeowners don’t realize that. It is imperative we help you avoid mistakes in the early parts of the process. Contact us at ANY time during the claim process.

My claim was denied. Can a Public Adjuster still help?

It is common when your claim is denied to feel like that is the end of the process. We deal with situations like these every single day. The insurance company unfairly denied your claim, but we are here to assist. We will work with you, inspecting the loss or damage, gathering the necessary information, and negotiating on your behalf to get the money you deserve.

My claim received partial payment. What can I do next?

Just as with the denied claim, a partial payment often feels like the end of the process. However, if you’re not happy, we’re not happy. Even if you are in the middle of the insurance claims process or have received a partial payment, it is not necessarily too late to hire a public adjuster to help you make a full recovery.

Can my insurance company drop me or raise my rates?

Typically your insurance company is not permitted to drop you during your coverage period. However, they can choose not to renew your policy once it expires. That decision is based on determination of risk. While making a claim can move you into a higher risk pool, insurance companies are not permitted to drop your coverage or raise your rates in retaliation for opening claims. Hiring a Public Adjuster can only help you to get the money you deserve to fix your home.

What is mediation and appraisal?

An appraisal clause is detailed in your policy and is an avenue you can take when you feel your claim has been unfairly handled. Due to this dispute with your insurance company about the value of your loss, either you or the insurance company may invoke the appraisal clause. Each side, the insured and the insurance company, will select appraisers who will agree on a neutral umpire. The umpire will determine the amount of the loss which will be binding.

The mediation process involves both the insurance company and policyholder. The insurance company will have a representative to argue their side of the claim. The insured should also be represented, and that is where the Public Adjuster comes in. It is not recommended for an insured to go to mediation alone, for the same reason you wouldn’t go to trial unrepresented. Unlike the appraisal process, mediation does not involve the mediator imposing a decision. The mediator’s role is sorely to assist the two parties to reach a mutual and acceptable resolution.

How long does the process take?

From the initial contact, the entire process usually takes two (2) to three (3) months. However, there are variables in that timeline, like which insurance company you have and how complex is the claim, that can sometimes shorten or lengthen the process. Rest assured, our team will work diligently to resolve your disputed claim efficiently and effectively.

How much do you charge?

Our fee is set by the State of Florida, which states non-emergency claims will be paid at 20% of total claim value. In times of declared state emergencies, our fee is 10% of claim total. Our fees are listed on the contract you will sign if deciding to allow us to represent you. Remember: if you don’t get paid, we don’t get paid. Our compensation is contingent upon our success.

Can the contract be cancelled?

Yes! Pursuant to Florida law, the insured may cancel the adjuster contract without penalty or obligation within ten (10) business days after the date of execution.

About Us

Best Adjust, LLC is a fully licensed and bonded Public Adjusting firm based out of Orlando, FL. Licensed through the Department of Financial Services.

Negil Terry, PA

License # W227539

Contact us

Our experts are waiting to hear from you. Call us today at 407-930-8211

For non-urgent correspondence, we prefer email. You can email us at email@bestadjust.com