Property damage and resulting claims can often be overwhelming for any property owner. In such challenging times, the expertise of a Public Insurance Adjuster can be invaluable in managing your insurance claim.
Green, Klein, Wood & Jones, a premier, boutique law firm focusing on insurance litigation, sheds light on the vital role of Public Insurance Adjusters—often called Public Adjusters, or PAs—and when it may become necessary to seek legal counsel.
Understanding the Role of Public Adjusters
Public Adjusters are licensed professionals tasked with representing the insured in the event of a claim under an insurance policy, before any litigation is considered. Their training equips them to:
- Investigate your loss, understanding the nuances and specifics of the incident.
- Document the damages to your property meticulously.
- Estimate the cost of repairs, considering your policy coverages, building codes, manufacturer’s specifications, and the correct repair methods.
- Present your claim to the insurance company in the proper format, allowing you to work toward a fair outcome, based on your property insurance policy’s coverage.
A competent Public Adjuster can play a critical role in ensuring that all conditions of your insurance policy are met, prompting the insurance company to fulfill its obligations.
When to Transition from a Public Adjuster to Legal Counsel
While many claims can be resolved amicably with the insurance company through the efforts of a skilled Public Adjuster, there are instances where legal intervention becomes necessary. This typically occurs when:
- The insurance company refuses to be reasonable, raising improper legal arguments or denying claims unjustifiably.
- The Public Adjuster encounters resistance that prevents the successful resolution of the claim, despite diligent efforts.
- Partial payments are issued by the carrier, but the Public Adjuster identifies that the client is entitled to significantly more.
In these scenarios, transitioning to legal counsel is not just advisable; it may be the only way to enforce your policyholder’s rights effectively.
The Synergy between Public Adjusters and Legal Experts
Green, Klein, Wood & Jones values the partnership with Public Adjusters, recognizing their expertise as an invaluable asset in understanding claims, damages, and the intricacies of proper repair methods.
However, it’s essential to be vigilant of bad practices within the industry, such as Public Adjusters who immediately refer clients to lawyers without a genuine attempt to resolve the claim. This not only reflects poorly on their professional integrity but can be against regulations.
Choosing the Right Public Adjuster and Legal Team
When selecting a Public Adjuster, look for professionals with a proven track record of honesty and success in claim resolution, and perhaps one that is a member of a state, regional, and/or national professional association, or a sponsor or supporter of policyholder consumer advocacy nonprofits.
Should your claim require legal action, partnering with a reputable law firm like Green, Klein, Wood & Jones ensures that your rights are aggressively defended in court. Our collaborative approach with Public Adjusters often leads to more informed and effective legal strategies, maximizing the potential for a favorable outcome.
The Bottom Line
The journey from filing an insurance claim to receiving rightful compensation can be complex and fraught with challenges. A Public Adjuster can often navigate these waters effectively, but there are times when the expertise of legal professionals becomes indispensable.
Green, Klein, Wood & Jones stands ready to assist policyholders whose claims have escalated beyond the negotiation table, ensuring that justice is served.
If your claim has hit a deadlock despite your Public Adjuster’s best efforts, don’t hesitate to seek the legal firepower you need. Contact Green, Klein, Wood & Jones to explore how we can turn the tide in your favor.
