The Louisiana coastal plain is the largest expanse of coastal wetlands in the contiguous United States. Hurricanes and floods are a part of life here, which is why having a reliable public adjuster is so essential.
If you have suffered damages to a home or property, it is essential to seek the help of a public adjuster. A Louisiana public adjuster is an insurance professional who can help you get the most out of your claim.
However, with so many adjusters out there, it cannot be easy to choose the right one for you. This article will discuss some things you should consider while choosing a specialist in Louisiana.
1. Check Their License
The Louisiana Department of Insurance requires all claims specialists to have a license. You can check to see if your public adjuster is licensed by visiting the website or calling their office at 225-342-5900.
A license will verify that:
- The specialist has met the minimum education and experience requirements
- The public adjuster has passed a criminal background check
- The adjuster is bonded, meaning they have insurance to protect you in case of any wrongdoing.
When you hire a licensed person, you can rest assured that you will receive thoroughly professional services for your money.
2. Check Their Communication Skills
Claims specialists should be easy to communicate with, as they will work closely with you to settle your claim. Make sure to ask how the Louisiana public adjuster prefers to communicate (phone, email, in-person) and if they are available 24/48 hours a day.
You don’t want any surprises or delays during the settlement process, so it is essential that you feel comfortable with your specialist and responsive to your needs.
An expert should have over 25 years of experience helping homeowners and businesses get the settlements they deserve.
3. Compare Their Prices
Not all public adjusters charge the same rate. Some may charge a higher percentage of your claim, while others may have a lower rate. Compare the rates of different public adjusters to ensure you are getting the best deal possible.
It is also important to note that some public adjusters may charge a consultation fee. Be sure to ask about all fees upfront, so there are no surprises later. The total estimate will include:
- The time it will take the public adjuster to review your claim and supporting documentation
- The time it will take to negotiate with the insurance company
- The expected outcome of the negotiation
- Additional fees, such as a consultation fee.
A good public adjuster should give you a detailed estimate in writing.
4. Check Their Negotiation Skills
Not all claims specialists are created equal. Some may be better at negotiating with the insurance company than others. Before hiring an adjuster, be sure to ask them about their negotiation skills.
A good adjuster should get you the best possible settlement from the insurance company. Louisiana is known to be one of the most expensive states when it comes to getting your home insured. Hence, it is vital to have an adjuster to get you the best settlement or compensation.
Conclusion
Natural calamities can cause extensive damage to residential and commercial properties. If you are a property owner in Louisiana and have suffered losses due to a natural disaster, it is advisable to hire the services of a public adjuster.