Don't Get Burned January 2019

3 • Try to settle your claim directly with your insurance company before hiring a public adjuster or an attorney. Your insurer provides an adjuster at no charge to you. Ask your insurance agent or company representative to help you with your claim, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you decide to work directly with your insurer, you still have the right to hire a third-party professional (public adjuster or lawyer) to help you. • If you hire a public adjuster to help you with a claim, be certain that the adjuster is licensed. Call the California Department of Insurance (CDI) for licensing verification and for other information about public adjusters. Call the State, County or other local bar association for information about a prospective attorney. Public adjusters and lawyers will usually require a percentage of the claim settlement for their services. It is important that you understand what services are being provided and the fees that will be charged by both adjusters and lawyers. Ask your friends, relatives, or business associates for the names of well-regarded professionals in your community. • Do not call anyone to repair or replace your loss without first getting instructions from your adjuster, since your insurer’s visual inspection of your loss may be necessary before repairs begin. Do not throw away damaged property until your adjuster advises you it is all right to do so.