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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ about hiring a Public Adjuster

As your licensed Public Adjuster in Jacksonville, we protect your interests. Have questions about our role in the claims process? Read our frequently asked questions below, then request your free claim review today.

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A Public Adjuster is a licensed and bonded professional who assists policyholders with their property damage claims. A Public Adjuster represents you, not the insurance company.

Florida began licensing Public Adjusters in 1957, but they were practising in Florida before this. The Public Adjusting profession has been in America since the 1880s, and every state except two has licensed Public Adjusters.
A FAPIA Public Adjuster belongs to the Florida Association of Public Insurance Adjusters. They adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and are able to take advantage of the best quality continuing education training in the country. FAPIA members also have access to a network of resources to best assist you in handling your insurance claim.

Yes, you can. But be prepared to document all aspects of your loss, try to understand the insurance policy you purchased, and follow through with the agent and the company. Your insurance policy is a binding contract, and both parties have obligations and duties to fulfill within certain time frames. Navigating all of this while suffering a loss is stressful, and if not done properly, you can give up some of your rights and find yourself in an unfavorable position.

The insurance company has its own insurance professional expert representing it. Shouldn’t you have professional representation too? You deserve to have someone looking out for your best interests.

No, they are not. Their services are available only to the insured public, not the insurance company. We’re here to represent you.
A licensed Public Adjuster works only for you, making sure your loss is fully documented, policy conditions are met, and your claim is presented clearly and accurately so you don’t leave money on the table or risk costly mistakes.
Public adjusters are licensed professionals who know how to interpret complex insurance policies, document losses to insurer standards, and negotiate claims based on current insurance laws and regulations. They handle the technical work, like preparing detailed documentation, meeting policy requirements, and advocating directly with the insurance company. They ensure your claim is presented properly and your interests are protected.

Hiring us at the beginning of your fire claim puts you in the strongest possible position. When we’re involved from day one, we can guide the strategy, shape communication with the insurance carrier, and help prevent costly missteps before they happen.

Waiting until after a coverage decision or initial payment has been made limits what can be influenced. In many cases, supplemental claims require more work, which means higher fees.

No, many homeowners contact a fire damage Public Adjuster in Jacksonville days or even weeks after a fire. In many cases, help is still possible even if your claim has already started.
No, a good Public Adjuster keeps you informed and involved while handling the technical and time-consuming work for you.
Proper preparation often prevents delays caused by missing documentation, disputes, or rework later in the process.
You’re not required to accept the first offer. A Public Adjuster can review it and help determine whether it reflects the full scope of your loss.
Public adjusters are typically paid based on recovery. At First Coast Claim Consultants, you don’t pay unless you recover. Our typical fire claim fee is 10%, or 20% for supplemental claims.
  • Who is adjusting and handling your claim? Is it the first person you spoke to and decided to trust, or have you been handed over to someone else?
  • License and appointment: Make sure their license and appointment are up-to-date with the State of Florida.
  • FAPIA membership: A public insurance adjuster who is a member of their state association of public insurance adjusters takes their profession seriously and subscribes to a strict code of ethics.
  • Experience: Ask about experience, training, and references.
  • Transparency: A professional public insurance adjuster will explain the fee structure up-front so you understand why and what you’re paying for.
  • Comfort level: This person will be helping you through a very traumatic time, and resolving the claim could take some time, so find someone whom you instinctively trust.
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