Public adjuster, attorney or appraisal?

Start with the disagreement, not the job title

A missing repair item, a disagreement over price and a denial of coverage are different problems. Write down what the insurer accepts, what it disputes and what you want reviewed. That helps you choose the kind of help the file needs. You do not automatically need all three options.

Public adjuster: document and negotiate the property claim

A licensed public adjuster represents the policyholder in preparing and negotiating a property insurance claim. The work can include organizing the evidence, inspecting reported damage, developing a repair estimate and discussing the insurer’s position. Public adjusters cannot give legal advice or act as your lawyer.

This may fit a claim with disputed damage scope, missing documentation or an estimate that needs a supported comparison. Ask what work is included, who performs it and how the fee applies to payments already received. The initial Care Claims review is free; representation requires a separate written agreement. Read Florida public adjuster fee limits.

Attorney: evaluate legal rights and proceedings

An attorney can advise on legal rights, policy disputes and litigation. Seek legal advice promptly when a legal deadline, lawsuit or disputed interpretation requires it; you do not need to wait until every other option fails before asking a lawyer about your rights.

Request written fee and expense terms. If a public adjuster is already involved, ask how the services and separate contracts interact. Do not assume the insurer will pay your attorney’s fees or that hiring two professionals will produce a larger net payment.

Appraisal: a policy process for a valuation disagreement

Appraisal is a process, not another name for a public adjuster. If your policy provides it, appraisal can address a dispute over the scope or amount of loss. Read the clause for how to request it, appraiser qualifications and what the decision binds. Each side generally selects and pays its own appraiser; an umpire and shared expenses may be needed if they cannot agree.

A disagreement about whether the policy covers the loss is different from a valuation dispute. Appraisal does not automatically reverse a coverage denial. Mixed disputes need claim-specific review, and a lawyer can assess legal questions about whether appraisal is available. Compare DFS dispute-resolution options.

Check the cost and the alternatives

Before signing, ask for the total fee basis, outside-expert costs, cancellation terms and any overlap with another professional’s work. A statutory maximum is not a mandatory rate. Ask what remains for repairs after fees and the deductible without assuming any future recovery.

You can also seek free help from Florida DFS Consumer Services. Eligible disputes may qualify for residential property mediation. Mediation is a facilitated discussion; it differs from appraisal and does not require the parties to accept an outcome.

Bring a file that shows the actual issue

• The policy and endorsements in effect on the loss date.
• The insurer’s written decision, estimate and payment history.
• Dated photographs, inspection findings and itemized repair estimates.
• A timeline of notices, information requests and your replies.
• Any existing representation, repair or appraisal agreement.

For a denied roof claim, use the roof-denial checklist. If you are waiting for a decision, review the insurer’s response clocks.

Do I need both a public adjuster and an attorney?

Not automatically. A public adjuster can address documentation and claim negotiation; an attorney addresses legal advice and proceedings. Some files involve both. Understand each person’s role and written charges before agreeing to overlapping work.

Is appraisal always available after a denial?

No. Availability depends on the policy, the nature of the disagreement and applicable requirements. A coverage denial is not automatically resolved through appraisal. Have the actual denial and appraisal clause reviewed before paying to begin the process.

Can I start a review without all the paperwork?

Yes. Tell us what you have and what is missing. Start with the property, the insurer’s decision and your main concern. Request a free denied or underpaid claim review. We review and reply within one business day. Sending an inquiry does not create representation.