The adjuster is the insurance company's representative assigned to your claim. They inspect the damage, write the Statement of Loss, and approve or deny supplements.
Types of adjuster you may encounter
- Staff adjuster — a direct employee of your insurance carrier.
- Independent adjuster — a contractor the insurer hires during high-volume catastrophe events.
- Public adjuster — works for you, not the insurer; takes a percentage of the settlement. Usually engaged on complex or contested claims.
Working effectively with an adjuster
- Be professional and document every interaction.
- Ask for everything in writing — emails, not phone calls, when it matters.
- Never sign anything you don't fully understand.
- Have your contractor present during the inspection if possible.