If your home has been damaged and you’re filing a claim with your insurance company, you’re already dealing with enough stress. But when your insurer delays, denies, or underpays your claim, it can feel like the system is stacked against you. That’s where a public adjuster may come in — but knowing when to involve one (and when you may need legal help instead) is key.
What Does a Public Adjuster Do?
A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents policyholders — not insurance companies — in assessing property damage and presenting claims to insurers. Unlike the insurance company’s adjuster, whose job is to protect the insurer’s bottom line, a public adjuster works on your behalf to show the total insurance benefits that should be provided for your claim.
They can:
- Inspect the damage and estimate repair costs
- Review your insurance policy for available benefits
- Prepare and submit detailed claims documentation
- Request benefits directly from your insurance company
Most public adjusters work on a contingency fee basis, typically charging a percentage of the claim payout.
When Might You Need a Public Adjuster?
Hiring a public adjuster can be a smart move if:
- The damage is extensive and you’re unsure how to calculate losses
- Your insurer’s offer seems far too low
- Your claim includes several items of damaged personal property
- You’re overwhelmed by the documentation and deadlines
They can be especially helpful in large or complex residential or commercial claims, where there’s a lot at stake — like after fires, plumbing failures, or structural damage.
When a Public Adjuster May Not Be Enough
While public adjusters can help with documenting claims and requesting benefits, they can’t hold your insurance company legally accountable. If your claim has been:
- Unreasonably delayed without clear explanation
- Denied based on vague or shifting justifications
- Lowballed despite clear evidence of higher losses
- Mishandled with poor communication or pressure to settle
…you may be dealing with insurance bad faith — and that’s when it’s time to talk to a lawyer.
How Bastion Law Can Help
At Bastion Law, we don’t just assist with claims — we fight back when insurers act unfairly or illegally. Washington law protects you against bad faith tactics. Our legal team will:
- Review your policy and communications with the insurer
- Investigate the handling of your claim
- Pursue the full value of your loss and additional compensation if your insurer violated the law
We work on a contingency basis and offer free consultations, so there’s no cost to get the guidance you need.
Don’t Navigate This Alone.
If your claim isn’t being handled fairly, contact Bastion Law today. We’re Washington’s trial firm for homeowners battling denied or delayed insurance claims — and we’re ready to make your insurer pay what you’re owed.