Claims & Disputes
Public Adjuster
A public adjuster works exclusively for the insured—not the insurance company—to document losses, interpret policy language, and maximize claim settlements.
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Editorial methodology
Definition
A public adjuster is a state-licensed claims professional retained and paid by the policyholder to represent their interests throughout the insurance claims process. Unlike staff adjusters or independent adjusters who work for or are assigned by the insurer, a public adjuster's sole duty is to the insured. They assess property damage, prepare detailed loss estimates (often using tools like Xactimate), negotiate directly with the carrier's adjuster, and advocate for a fair settlement. Fees are typically a percentage of the settled claim amount—commonly 10%–15% for standard claims and up to 20%–25% in some states, with Florida capping public adjuster fees at 20% for non-declared-disaster claims and 10% during a declared state of emergency. Studies suggest policyholders who use public adjusters on homeowners claims receive settlements 19%–747% higher than those who do not, though outcomes vary significantly. Public adjusters must be licensed in the state where the loss occurred; they are regulated by the state insurance commissioner and prohibited in some states from soliciting during declared disasters.
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Cover Forge USA Editorial Team
Editorial Lead
This article was researched and written by the Cover Forge USA editorial team against federal sources (NAIC, CMS, FEMA, DOL, SSA, state DOIs) and standard policy forms. Bylines organize content by topic — they do not assert individual licensure. See our editorial-policy for details.
Reviewed 2026-06-14
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