How to Pick the Right Public Adjuster
The right public adjuster should:
- Does not break the law by chasing at night and / or use board up men to solicit business
- Be properly licensed in by the Illinois Department of Insurance; visit their site here
- Be a member in good standing with Illinois Public Adjuster Association
- Confirm that the adjusting contract you are asked to signed has been “Approved“ by the Illinois Department of Insurance; do not sign if they cannot demonstrate the contract is approved – Ask to see stamp from Illinois Department of Insurance approving the form contract
- Can display a bond in the minimum amount of $20,000
- Has never had Public Adjuster License revoked by the Illinois Department of Insurance
- Can demonstrate they have at least 10 years experience, especially for any loss over $100,000
- Possess knowledge of the appraisal process and can document successful appraisals; this is different than simply adjusting the loss – appraisal is the next step to achieving a greater settlement
- Possess knowledge of local contractors, repair and remediation prices, building codes, etc.
- Be well-acquainted with your insurance company – its top adjusters and claims handling policies
- Be accredited with the Better Business Bureau with an A+ Rating and at least two positive reviews
- Be free of any criminal background issues
- Be free of IRS liens for a minimum of 10 years
- Not engage in unprofessional sales techniques such as speaking to you or attempting to have you sign a contract while the fire department is at the property or shortly thereafter; it is illegal for a public adjuster to solicit you during evening hours or while the fire department is engaged at the fire
- Provide references from satisfied customers