When disaster strikes—whether it’s fire damage, water damage, or another loss—filing an insurance claim can feel overwhelming. Many homeowners and business owners assume that their insurance company will fairly assess their damages and provide the compensation they need to recover. However, what many don’t realize is that the insurance company’s adjuster works for the insurer, not for you. This is where a public adjuster comes in.
At A H Neaman Company, we specialize in helping policyholders in Pennsylvania (PA), West Virginia (WV), and Maryland (MD) navigate the claims process, ensuring they receive the maximum payout they’re entitled to. In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between a public adjuster and an insurance company adjuster, so you can make an informed decision about protecting your financial interests.
What is an Insurance Company Adjuster?
An insurance company adjuster, also known as a staff adjuster or independent adjuster, is hired by the insurance company to evaluate property damage claims. Their primary role is to assess the damage and determine how much the insurance company should pay for the loss.
Who Do They Work For?
Insurance company adjusters work for the insurance company, not the policyholder. Their job is to protect the financial interests of the insurance provider by:
- Investigating claims to determine coverage
- Assessing the extent of property damage
- Calculating repair costs based on the insurer’s guidelines
- Looking for ways to minimize claim payouts
Potential Issues with Insurance Company Adjusters
While insurance company adjusters are supposed to be fair, they often have conflicting interests. Since they are employed by the insurance provider, they may be motivated to:
- Undervalue damages to save the company money
- Deny certain claim elements based on policy exclusions
- Rush assessments, leading to overlooked damages
- Offer quick settlements that may not fully cover your loss
This is why many policyholders in PA, WV, and MD turn to a public adjuster for help—someone who will advocate for their best interests.
What is a Public Adjuster?
A public adjuster is an independent professional hired by the policyholder (you) to handle the insurance claim on your behalf. Unlike insurance company adjusters, a public adjuster works only for you to ensure that you receive the highest possible settlement for your loss.
What Does a Public Adjuster Do?
A public adjuster provides comprehensive assistance, including:
✅ Assessing your damages—conducting a thorough evaluation of your property loss
✅ Documenting losses—taking photos, creating detailed reports, and compiling evidence
✅ Reviewing your insurance policy—explaining coverage, exclusions, and limitations
✅ Negotiating with the insurance company—fighting to get you the maximum payout
✅ Handling all paperwork and communication—saving you time and stress
By working with a public adjuster in PA, WV, or MD, like A H Neaman Company, you gain an expert who will ensure you aren’t underpaid or taken advantage of by the insurance company.
Public Adjuster vs. Insurance Company Adjuster: Key Differences
| Feature | Public Adjuster | Insurance Company Adjuster |
|---|---|---|
| Who Do They Work For? | The policyholder (YOU) | The insurance company |
| Primary Goal | Maximize your settlement | Minimize the insurer’s payout |
| Damage Assessment | Comprehensive, in-depth | May be rushed or limited |
| Negotiation | Fights for the highest possible payout | Works within the insurer’s budget |
| Policy Interpretation | Advocates for full coverage | May interpret in favor of insurer |
| Payment | Earns a percentage of your claim (only if you get paid) | Paid by the insurance company |
Why You Need a Public Adjuster in PA, WV, and MD
Filing an insurance claim after fire or water damage is complex. Many policyholders don’t realize that their initial settlement offer from the insurance company is often much lower than what they deserve. A public adjuster ensures that:
- Your damages are fully documented—so nothing is overlooked
- You receive fair compensation—covering all repair costs, lost property, and additional expenses
- The insurance company does not take advantage of policy loopholes—that could lead to denied or reduced payouts
At A H Neaman Company, we have years of experience in fire damage, water damage, storm damage, and property loss claims. Our team works directly with homeowners and business owners to get them the best possible settlement.
Real-World Example: How a Public Adjuster Can Help
Let’s say your home in Pittsburgh, PA suffers significant fire damage. You contact your insurance company, and they send an adjuster who estimates your total damages at $50,000. However, after hiring A H Neaman Company, our public adjuster conducts an independent review and finds additional smoke damage, hidden structural issues, and loss of personal property that were not included in the insurer’s estimate.
With our advocacy, your claim is re-evaluated, and we negotiate a final settlement of $90,000—nearly double the initial offer. Without a public adjuster, you might have settled for much less than what you needed to fully recover.
When Should You Hire a Public Adjuster?
✔ If your insurance claim was underpaid or denied
✔ If you don’t have time to handle the claims process
✔ If you want to maximize your insurance settlement
✔ If you’re unsure about your policy coverage
✔ If your claim is complex and involves significant damage
If you’re facing any of these challenges, A H Neaman Company can help!
Call A H Neaman Company for Expert Public Adjusting Services
Don’t settle for less than what you deserve! If you’re dealing with fire damage, water damage, storm damage, or any major property loss in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, or Maryland, call A H Neaman Company today.
Let us fight for you and ensure that you get the full compensation you’re entitled to!
