Short answer
A public adjuster is a licensed insurance professional who represents you, the policyholder, on a property damage claim. In Indiana, public adjusters are licensed by the Indiana Department of Insurance. They review your policy, document the damage, prepare the claim, and negotiate with your insurer under a written fee agreement. Hiring one makes the most sense for large or complex claims and for denied or underpaid claims.
When you file a property insurance claim, an adjuster comes out to look at the damage. That adjuster works for the insurance company, either as an employee or as an independent adjuster hired by the insurer. A public adjuster is different: a licensed professional who works only for you, the policyholder.
What a public adjuster does
A public adjuster handles the claim on your behalf. That usually includes:
- Reviewing your policy to understand what's covered, what's excluded, and what limits and deadlines apply.
- Inspecting and documenting the damage with photos, measurements, and notes.
- Preparing a detailed estimate of what it will cost to repair or replace the damaged property.
- Presenting the claim to the insurer and handling communication, meetings, and paperwork.
- Negotiating the settlement and pursuing supplements when additional damage or missed items are found.
Public adjusters are not attorneys and don't give legal advice. If a claim turns into a legal dispute, a good public adjuster will tell you when it's time to talk to a lawyer.
How public adjusters are licensed in Indiana
Public adjusters in Indiana are licensed by the Indiana Department of Insurance. Before you hire anyone, ask for their license number and verify it with the Department. A legitimate public adjuster will give you a written contract that explains the fee and the services before any work begins. Read the whole contract, including any cancellation terms, before you sign.
How public adjusters are paid
Public adjusters are paid under a written contract, and there's often no upfront cost. How the fee works and what it applies to should be spelled out clearly in that contract before any work begins. Ask questions like:
- How is your fee calculated, and what part of the settlement does it apply to?
- Are there any other fees or costs?
- What happens if there's no recovery?
When it makes sense to hire one
Not every claim needs a public adjuster. A small, straightforward claim that your insurer handles fairly may not. Hiring one often makes sense when:
- The damage is large or complex, such as a full roof, a fire, or significant water damage.
- Your claim was denied and you think the decision doesn't fit the facts. See our guide on responding to a denied or underpaid roof claim.
- The settlement won't cover the repair, and contractor estimates are well above the insurer's number. Learn about underpaid claims.
- You don't have the time to manage the claim yourself, especially for a business or rental property.
- The policy language is confusing and you're not sure what you're entitled to.
When to call
The earlier a public adjuster is involved, the more they can help shape the claim, ideally before the insurer's inspection. But public adjusters can also step in after an inspection, after a low offer, or after a denial. Policies have deadlines, so don't wait too long.
Questions to ask before you hire
- Are you licensed in Indiana, and what's your license number?
- Have you handled claims like mine, and for properties like mine?
- Who will actually handle my claim day to day?
- How will you keep me updated?
Indiana Public Adjusters represents homeowners and businesses across Indianapolis and central Indiana. If you're not sure whether you need help, request a free claim review and we'll tell you honestly.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Every policy is different. Read your own policy, and talk to a licensed professional about your specific claim.