Whether you are dealing with an adjuster right now, or want to be prepared in the future, there are some things you should know. Steven B. Pollack, an attorney that specifically deals with insurance claims, has an informative article you should read that will help you understand what a public adjuster can do and what they can't.
In his article, Your Rights When You Hire A Public Adjuster in Illinois, he explains that, "Under most circumstances, only a licensed attorney may represent another in a contract negotiation like the insurance claims process. Because public adjusters are not attorneys they are not subject to the strict ethical and professional rules guiding the legal profession." Yes, it is written for Illinois residents, but it is a good starting point for everyone to be more educated about the rights of public adjusters. If you want to learn about what rights public adjusters have in your state, you can find out by contacting your state insurance commissioner.
You can search the Public Adjuster in your local area in this website. By entering your city name, you can get the details.
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While this statement is gramatically correct let me comment on something. Many attorneys say they can handle these matters. However the fact is, that these attorneys will usually refer out your claim to a public adjuster. Do you really believe the attorney is going into a burnt up building with a tape measure and flash light? No? They hire expert like my fire Harris Insurance Services a Licensed Public Adjusting firm. Contrary to the statement we are in fact licensed tested and bonded. Moreover, members of our firm like other adjusting firms have estimators with years of building construction experience to evaluate the damages. We also have accountants we rely on when handling business income losses. The list of experts we incorporate into our day to day negotiations with insurance companies is endless. Many Attorney are simply not experienced enough to handle these matters. Let me point out another example. Do the Attorneys really understand how to apply the City of Chicago Building Code book to a fire loss situation. Most likely not. The simple fact again is they are simply not trained in this area and routinely refer these matters to firm such as ours.
In closing let me say, I am not trying to disrespect the legal community with this postion but simply set forth a different point of view. I have a clear understanding of the situation since not only am I a Licensed Public Adjuster of 15 or more years but also a practicing attorney of close to 20 years. I can without hesitation advise fire claims are becoming more complicated and demanding. Insurance companies are fighting harder and harder to keep claims low. Just my 2 cents.
For more information on fire claims and other disasters I can be reached at 847-329-8444 or http://www.HarrisClaimsServices.com
Thank you