Public Adjusters

One option is to pay a public adjuster for assistance documenting losses. Public adjusters can represent you in negotiations with your insurance company’s adjuster and typically are paid a percentage of the final insurance settlement. You are not required to work with a public adjuster.

Before you hire a public adjuster

• Check if they are licensed or have any previous disciplinary action by using License Lookup or call the Consumer Services Center us at 1-800-657-3602 (outside of the metro area) or 651-539-1600.
• Get a written contract clearly identifying all fees.
• Decide if you think the assistance of an adjuster will help you recover enough to offset the fee.

Avoid adjusters who:

• Claim to be from a government agency
• Insist that their services are mandatory
• Use high pressure sales tactics
• Refuse to provide a written contract

Avoiding scams and fraud

Scammers will descend upon an affected area and knock on doors offering their services. In the chaos of a disaster, victims might be eager to get back to normal and rebuild. You can protect yourself from being scammed by keeping your guard up and researching the companies you do business with:

• Check for the proper credentials
• Make sure you understand the terms of a contract before signing.
• Get everything in writing
• Get multiple estimates
• Pay by credit card or check and not until the work has been completed
• Never sign blank insurance forms