Frequently Asked Questions
When should I call Apicella Adjusters?
Immediately after a loss call us. It is most beneficial for us to get involved at the beginning to set the tone for the adjusting process.
What does a Public Adjuster do?
Public Insurance Adjusters are licensed by the state insurance department to represent the Policyholder. We professionally detail appraise and document every part of the claim and submit it to the insurance company adjuster. We negotiate a settlement subject to your approval. We take over the entire burden of preparing and adjusting your claim.
How much does it cost?
The standard fee for public adjusting services is 10% of the amount recovered from the insurance company. State insurance departments license public adjusters and regulate fees. On very large claims, fees are negotiable.
Will we be informed and involved in the claim process?
Draft copies of the claim details are presented to you as they are prepared. This procedure allows you to see your claim taking shape on paper. When you see that every detail of your claim is being presented to the insurance company you understand and appreciate the value of our services. We are available 24/7 to answer your questions.
Why chose Apicella Adjusters?
We are experienced professionals and insurance companies respect the quality of our work. Check us out.
How do Public Adjusters differ from Staff Adjusters and Independent Adjusters?
A Public Adjuster is licensed to work for the Insured party.
A Staff Adjuster is an employee of the Insurance Company.
Independent Adjusters are hired by insurance companies to adjust claims in areas where staff adjusters are not available.
Will my agent or adjuster be angry that I hired a Public Adjuster?
NO! Insurance adjusters know the value of a professionally prepared claim; it makes their job easier. Agents and brokers know the value of our services and regularly refer us to their most valued customers. Remember the Agent is experienced at selling the policy to you, they are not qualified to adjust your claim, we are.
How do I decide if I need the professional help of a Public Insurance Adjuster?
Without obligation we will meet with you to discuss your claim. We will show you a sample of a completed claim similar to yours. We will supply impressive references you can contact to check us out.
We encourage you to take your time when considering a Public Adjuster. Ask around and check our references. Our team is courteous and respectful. We do not use high-pressure sales tactics to get your business. Getting proper professional help is serious business.
Get Adjusted right...from the start. Don't settle for less.
Is my claim big enough to need professional help?
Call us to find out, we get involved in claims where our services are needed. Our services usually apply to claims over $20,000.00 but we are happy to consider all claims, call us for a free consultation
What is NAPIA?
NAPIA stands for the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters. NAPIA members have joined together for the purpose of professional education, certification, and promotion of a code of professional conduct. We have been members of NAPIA for more than 35 years.
What is AKLAN?
Together with six other nationally recognized Public Adjusting firms we are members of AKLAN, Anderson Kill Loss Advisors Network.
Anderson Kill Olick is a national law firm specializing in insurance law and litigation.
As a member of this network we can respond to any disaster with nationally recognized experts in property claim presentation and adjusting - anywhere, anytime.
Won't the Insurance Companies Adjuster take care of everything for me?
The insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect and adjust your claim, that adjuster works for the Insurance company. Apicella Adjusters works for YOU to assure that you are properly compensated for your loss.
In settling a property loss everybody has a job to do. Public adjusters and insurance company adjusters have different interests and are bound to do their utmost to protect those interests. Public Insurance Adjusters are trained and skilled professionals with genuine interest in serving the insured public with honesty and integrity. Would you go to court without a lawyer? Or run a business without an accountant? Recovering from a disaster can be difficult and overwhelming.
Can I handle the claim on my own?
The Policy is complex with vague language and you need to prove every detail of your loss to the insurance company. Most policyholders don't know the first thing about how to do that and are overwhelmed by the prospect in the aftermath of a catastrophic event. A qualified public adjuster has specialized expertise that can simplify and expedite the process while providing important protection for the policy holder. Public Adjusters are familiar with insurance company processes. We know how to work with insurance companies to keep the claim running smoothly and efficiently.
How long will the claim adjustment process take?
Every claim is unique. The Insurance company is anxious to settle your claim- and so are you- but don't be hasty! Rushed settlements can cost you money! Favorable settlements do not happen in an instant. We will work on your claim every day so that you will be assured of a favorable and timely settlement.
Why should I hire a Public Adjuster in the beginning of the claim process?
It is beneficial to hire a public adjuster at the beginning to assure all the correct steps are taken to keep your claim on track. Call us, we will explain exactly what we can do to help. We offer Immediate response and personalized service. You will have cell phone access to your public adjuster for answers quickly throughout the claim process.