Top 10 FAQs About Public Adjusters in Tampa Bay
Clear answers for homeowners navigating storm damage, denied claims, or underpaid insurance settlements
Thinking About Hiring a Public Adjuster in Tampa Bay?
When disaster strikes—whether it's a hurricane, pipe burst, fire, or roof damage—understanding your insurance rights can be overwhelming. That’s where a public adjuster comes in.
But what exactly do they do? How are they different from the adjuster your insurance company sends? And how much do they cost?
Here are the top 10 most frequently asked questions about working with a public adjuster in Tampa Bay, so you can make informed decisions and protect your property and wallet.
1. What is a public adjuster?
A public adjuster is a licensed insurance professional who represents you—the policyholder—in a property damage claim. Unlike insurance company adjusters, public adjusters work exclusively on your behalf to document losses, estimate repair costs, and negotiate a fair settlement.
2. How is a public adjuster different from an insurance company adjuster?
Insurance company adjusters are paid by your insurance company and tasked with minimizing the insurer’s financial exposure. Public adjusters are independent professionals who advocate for your maximum recovery under the terms of your policy.
3. When should I hire a public adjuster?
You can hire a public adjuster:
Immediately after damage occurs, to handle the entire process
After receiving a lowball settlement
If your claim has been denied
When you discover new damage after the claim was closed
In Florida, many homeowners turn to public adjusters after a hurricane, fire, or flood when claims are complicated or underpaid.
4. How much does a public adjuster cost?
In Florida, public adjusters typically work on a contingency basis. That means:
No upfront costs
They only get paid if you get paid
Fees are capped by law (usually 10% to 20% of the claim settlement)
This model ensures your adjuster is motivated to maximize your payout.
5. Can I hire a public adjuster even after I’ve filed a claim?
Yes. You can bring in a public adjuster at any stage of the claim:
Before filing
After an initial offer
After a denial
During repairs
Even up to two years after a hurricane or named storm
They can reopen or supplement a claim if it’s still within the legal timeframe.
6. What kinds of claims do public adjusters handle?
Common claims in the Tampa Bay area include:
Hurricane and wind damage
Roof damage
Flood and water damage
Fire and smoke damage
Sinkholes and foundation shifting
Mold
Burst pipes and plumbing leaks
If your home or property was damaged, and you're unsure how to proceed, a public adjuster can help assess whether you have a valid claim.
7. Is it legal to use a public adjuster in Florida?
Absolutely. Public adjusters are licensed and regulated by the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS). They must meet strict education and ethics requirements, and their fees are capped by state law.
8. How long do I have to file or reopen a claim in Florida?
Under Florida law (Section 627.70132):
You must file a new claim within 1 year of the date of damage
You may reopen or supplement a claim within 2 years
You have up to 5 years to file a lawsuit for breach of contract
A public adjuster can help you act within these legal deadlines and preserve your right to recover.
9. Can a public adjuster increase my settlement?
Yes, often significantly. According to a Florida OPPAGA report, homeowners who used a public adjuster received settlements that were 747% higher on average than those who did not, especially for hurricane-related claims.
Why? Because public adjusters:
Provide detailed estimates
Gather proper documentation
Understand your policy’s fine print
Negotiate directly with your insurer
10. How do I find a reputable public adjuster in Tampa Bay?
Look for:
State license verification via Florida DFS
Local experience with hurricane and storm claims
Clear contingency fee structure
Strong reviews or referrals from past clients
A firm that offers free consultations or claim reviews
Avoid anyone who asks for payment up front or approaches you aggressively right after a storm—those are red flags.
Need Help With a Property Claim?
Whether you're facing damage from hurricanes Helene or Milton, dealing with roof leaks, or wondering if you were underpaid, Right Way Public Adjusting is here to help. We serve Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and all of Central West Florida with trusted, experienced claim advocacy.
Contact Right Way Public Adjusting for a Free Claim Review
Call: (877) 744-8929
Visit: https://RightWayPA.com
