### Public Adjuster Fees: What You Need to Know

When dealing with an insurance claim, hiring a public adjuster can be beneficial, especially if you’re struggling to handle the complexities of the claim process. However, before hiring a public adjuster, it’s crucial to understand how **public adjuster fees** work and what you can expect.

#### Do You Need a Public Adjuster?
Not every insurance claim requires the services of a public adjuster. If you don’t have the time or experience to handle the claim process, or if you believe your insurance company has offered less than what you're owed, hiring a public adjuster could help you secure a higher payout. A public adjuster will examine your policy, assess the damage, and negotiate with your insurance company to secure the maximum payout allowed by law.

Public adjusters work exclusively for you, the policyholder, with no affiliation to the insurance company. This means you’ll need to pay for their services, but you’ll also benefit from having an expert handle every aspect of your claim.

### How Public Adjusters Charge Fees

Public adjusters use several fee structures, including flat rates, hourly rates, or more commonly, **contingency fees**. It’s important to agree on the fee structure before signing a contract. Fees are regulated at the state level, so be aware of any state-specific rules regarding how much and when public adjusters can charge.

- **Flat Rate**: If your claim is straightforward, a public adjuster may charge a flat fee for handling the entire claim. Be sure to clarify what is covered under the flat fee and if there are any additional costs that could arise during the claims process, such as expert assessments.

- **Hourly Rate**: Some public adjusters charge by the hour, although this method is less common. The hourly rate depends on factors like the adjuster’s experience, the state you’re in, and the complexity of your claim. An experienced public adjuster should give you an estimate of how many hours they’ll need to resolve your claim.

- **Contingency Fees**: This is the most common fee structure. The public adjuster will take a percentage of your final settlement, which can range from 5% to 15%, depending on their experience and state regulations. For example, in Florida, public adjusters cannot charge more than 20% for claims outside of a declared disaster and no more than 10% during declared disasters. Generally, the larger the claim, the lower the percentage that will be charged.

#### Beware of Scams
While most public adjusters are honest and reputable, it’s essential to be cautious of potential scams. Some warning signs include public adjusters asking for a deposit upfront or recommending contractors with whom they have a financial interest. Be sure to thoroughly vet your public adjuster by checking their references, license, and credentials.

### When Do Public Adjusters Get Paid?

In most cases, public adjusters only get paid after the **final settlement** is reached and you accept the insurance company’s offer. This means that public adjusters are motivated to secure the highest possible settlement because their compensation is directly tied to your payout.

The most common fee structure is a contingency fee, where the public adjuster takes an agreed-upon percentage of your final payout once the settlement is reached. Some public adjusters may also charge a prearranged fee or hourly rate, but payment is typically not required until the claim is settled.

#### Legal Protections for Policyholders
Many states have regulations that prevent public adjusters from accepting payment until the claim is settled, providing an additional layer of protection for policyholders. This means that you won’t need to pay your public adjuster until you’ve agreed to the final offer from your insurance company. If you’re unhappy with the settlement amount, your public adjuster will continue negotiating on your behalf until you reach a satisfactory outcome.

By understanding the fee structure and hiring a reputable public adjuster, you can ensure that your claim is handled professionally and maximize the compensation you’re entitled to receive.

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Need help with your insurance claim? Contact **ClaimShield** today for expert assistance from our experienced public adjusters. We’re here to handle the complexities of your claim, ensuring you get the maximum payout possible.