When the smoke finally cleared, Daniel and Marisa stood in their kitchen staring at what looked like a small fire contained to one wall. The contractor told them repairs would be minor. The insurer’s first estimate matched that. But when demolition started, smoke stains appeared in the attic, and insulation crumbled in their hands. Costs rose quickly, and they weren’t sure what was covered or who to call next.
That’s when a friend told them to contact a Los Angeles public insurance adjuster who can sort the damage, explain what the policy provides, and guide them through what needs to happen next.
So what does a public insurance adjuster do?
A public insurance adjuster is a licensed professional who represents the policyholder during an insurance claim. Their work centers on documenting damage, interpreting policy language, preparing repair estimates, and negotiating with the insurer for an accurate settlement. This relationship helps balance the process for homeowners who need clarity during a stressful event.
Losses related to fire, smoke, and water can be more complex than they appear. Homes in Southern California often feature a mix of older construction, modern renovations, tile or flat roofs, and varying materials. These factors influence how far smoke spreads, how water moves through a structure, and how replacement costs are calculated. A public adjuster examines the entire area affected by the loss and builds a detailed picture of what repairs are needed.
Public adjusters in California must be licensed by the Department of Insurance. Licensing ensures the adjuster understands documentation standards, valuation methods, and the rules that guide fair claim handling. This helps protect homeowners as they navigate communication, inspections, and settlement discussions with their insurer.
Our firm, Metropolitan Adjustment Bureau, is headquartered in Los Angeles and assists clients locally in Southern California and across the 11 states. Many clients reach out immediately after a loss, while others wait until delays, denials, or incomplete estimates raise concerns.
When to call a public adjuster
- After fire, smoke, or water damage
- When the insurer’s estimate appears incomplete
- When communication slows or inspections feel rushed
- When hidden structural damage is likely
- When a claim is denied or underpaid
How the process works
- First, we review your policy and what happened. We look at your coverage, exclusions, and the details of the loss.
- Next, we inspect your property and document the damage. We examine all affected areas and gather photos, notes, and measurements.
- Then we prepare a full replacement-cost estimate. This reflects what it will actually take to restore your home.
- We assemble a complete claim package. That includes estimates, documentation, and any required forms.
- We communicate directly with your insurance company. We handle questions, requests for more information, and follow-up.
- Finally, we negotiate the settlement on your behalf. Our goal is a resolution that reflects the true cost of repairs.
The goal is a settlement that reflects the true cost of restoring the home to its prior condition.
FAQs
What does a public insurance adjuster do?
A public insurance adjuster represents the policyholder by documenting damage, preparing the claim file, estimating repair costs, reviewing the policy, and negotiating with the insurer. In regions like Southern California, where homes range from older bungalows to modern hillside structures, adjusters also account for local construction patterns, material pricing, and code requirements that influence the final settlement.
When should I hire a public adjuster?
Many homeowners reach out right after fire, smoke, or water damage. Others wait until they notice gaps in the insurer’s estimate, delays in communication, or concerns about hidden structural issues. Claims in older homes, homes with layered remodels, or properties with flat roofs or hillside layouts often benefit from an adjuster’s review because the damage can be more complex than it appears.
Do public adjusters need to be licensed?
Yes. In California, public adjusters must hold a license through the Department of Insurance. Licensing ensures they understand claims regulations, documentation standards, valuation methods, and the policies that govern coverage.
Is a public adjuster helpful for smaller claims?
It depends on the loss. Even smaller events like a kitchen fire or a supply-line failure can reveal hidden issues once demolition begins. Homes with older wiring, mixed materials, or several remodel phases can have damage that isn’t visible at first. An adjuster can determine whether the initial scope captures everything.
Can a public adjuster work with claims already in progress?
Yes. They can join at any stage, whether the claim is newly filed, partially processed, delayed, or already paid but appears incomplete.
