The best way to locate an experienced public adjuster can be found through the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters. NAPIA provides recommendations for every state that has licensed public adjusters. The Public Insurance Adjuster is the only type of adjuster that is qualified to represent the insured in a claim for property. Currently more than 43 states plus the District of Columbia require an adjuster with this license in order for them to be able to act on behalf of the insurance company.

A professionally trained public insurance adjuster will serve as your advocate and assist you navigate the insurance maze so that you can get the entire amount due to you under your insurance policy. There are a few steps that must be completed before you can be paid by the insurer. These include valuing the loss, presenting it to the insurer and making a settlement. Insurance policies are complex and conditional, full payment for the loss is not guaranteed.

A public adjuster can help identify the coverages and the causes of the loss to evaluate the carrier's offer or refusal.

After a disaster, fire victims are often bombarded with inquires and offers from general contractors and public adjusters as well as others who offer to assist them. This is normal. The fact that you are being solicited does not necessarily mean that they're doing anything wrong. But, you must be careful and to do your research prior to making a Public Adjuster decision to sign up for their services.

If the adjusters who represent you are not members of NAPIA, (National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters,) be wary.. They might not have the legal or insurance expertise to effectively represent you. Here are some warning indicators:

1. They make huge promises but do not offer any assurances.

2. Their fees are outrageous. Most legit Public Insurance Adjusters fees range between 5% to 12 percent, and average around 10%. Certain public adjusters charge more for smaller claims, or when they are hired at the midpoint of the process of filing claims.

3. If you feel pressured take a decision quickly take a break. The legitimate PAs understand that the decision to appoint someone to represent you to help you get your life and home back in order is an important one. This isn't a choice that should be made in haste. This could be one of the most costly decisions you make in your life. Make sure you take your time and be sure that you feel at ease with the adjuster you employ.

4. Check their web site and address. If they don't have anything other than the business card, you should be cautious. If the only address they have is a PO box, it could be a warning sign.

5. It is often preferential to employ someone local. Someone who is familiar with the local housing market and reconstruction costs, who is aware of the assets of the community and how best to use these resources. A locally based PA may also have worked with representatives of the major insurance firms in the region and could be in a position to cut through the bureaucracy and red tape in order to make sure you get what is owed to you faster.