Adjuster
An insurance professional who investigates claims, assesses damage, and determines how much the insurer will pay.
An insurance adjuster evaluates the extent and covered amount of an insurance claim on behalf of the insurer (staff adjuster), independently (independent adjuster), or on behalf of the policyholder (public adjuster). After a claim is filed, the adjuster inspects the damage, reviews the policy terms, assesses the cause of loss, and prepares a loss estimate that determines the insurer's payment.
Staff adjusters are employees of the insurance company; independent adjusters are contractors hired by insurers during high-volume events like hurricanes. A public adjuster is hired and paid by the policyholder—typically on a contingency fee of 10–15% of the settlement—to advocate for the highest possible payout. Using a public adjuster can be worthwhile for complex or disputed large claims.
If you disagree with an adjuster's assessment, you have options: request a re-inspection, provide additional documentation, invoke the appraisal clause in the policy, or file a complaint with your state insurance commissioner. Never feel obligated to accept the first offer on a significant loss.
Real-World Example
The insurance adjuster visited the fire-damaged home, documented the losses, and issued an initial estimate of $87,000—which the homeowner disputed with a contractor's higher rebuild quote.