The insurance adjuster, sent by your insurer, works for the insurance company and evaluates the claim for them. A public adjuster works for you: in Massachusetts they must be licensed by the state, and they are usually paid a percentage of the settlement under a written contract. Restoration companies are neither. Need the water damage handled? Call (413) 603-1274.
Side by side
| Company adjuster | Public adjuster | |
|---|---|---|
| Works for | The insurance company | You |
| Paid by | The insurer | You, usually a share of the settlement |
| Licensed | Yes | Yes, by the state |
| Can negotiate for you | No | Yes |
General information only. Read any public adjuster contract carefully before signing.
When a public adjuster may make sense
- A large or complicated loss, such as several units or a business
- A denial or a settlement that seems far too low
- You do not have time to manage the claim
For a small, straightforward burst pipe claim, many homeowners handle it themselves with good documentation. See how to document water damage and claim denied in Massachusetts.
Where we fit
We are not adjusters and we do not negotiate your claim. We fix the pipe, dry the house, and give you clear records: photos, the cause, moisture readings and an itemized invoice. See water damage insurance claim help.
How public adjusters are paid
Public adjusters are usually paid a percentage of the claim settlement, under a written contract you sign. Massachusetts regulates public adjusters, and they must be licensed by the state. Before you sign, ask what percentage they charge, whether it applies to money the insurer had already offered or only to increases, whether you can cancel, and how they will communicate with you. Check the license with the Massachusetts Division of Insurance.
Independent adjusters
There is a third kind of adjuster people meet after a burst pipe. An independent adjuster is hired by the insurance company on contract, often during busy periods such as after a cold snap when claims pile up. They still work for the insurer, not for you. Treat them the same as a staff adjuster: be polite, show them everything, and keep your own records.
Do you need one for a burst pipe?
For most small and medium burst pipe claims, homeowners handle it themselves with good photos, moisture readings and repair estimates. A public adjuster may be worth it for very large losses, when a claim has been denied or is far apart from the repair cost, or when you do not have time to manage it. An attorney is the other option if the dispute is about coverage itself.
Watch for pressure
After a large loss, public adjusters sometimes knock on doors quickly. Take your time. You can sign later, after you have read the contract and checked the license. There is no rush to hand over your claim.
Whoever handles your claim, keep your own copies of every photo, estimate and letter. The claim is yours, and the records should be too. Back them up somewhere other than your phone.
Questions
How do I check a public adjuster's license?
Through the Massachusetts Division of Insurance licensing lookup.
Can I hire one after I already filed?
Usually yes. Ask what their fee applies to.
Need the damage handled? Call
Call (413) 603-1274 now. Locally owned in Chicopee.