Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about public adjusters, our process, and how we help homeowners navigate insurance claims and pursue fair settlements.
About Public Adjusters
A public adjuster is a licensed insurance professional who represents you—the policyholder—in your insurance claim. Unlike the adjuster your insurance company sends (who works for them), we work exclusively on your behalf.
Our job is to document your damage thoroughly, prepare detailed damage documentation to support your insurance claim, and negotiate with your insurance company to help ensure a fair and properly supported settlement. We're your advocate throughout the entire claims process.
The key difference is who we work for:
- Insurance company adjusters are employees or contractors of your insurance carrier. Their job is to evaluate your claim on behalf of the company—which has a financial interest in minimizing payouts.
- Public adjusters are licensed professionals who work exclusively for you, the policyholder. We're paid only when you get paid, so our interests are completely aligned with yours.
We bring expertise in damage documentation, insurance policy language, and claims negotiation to ensure nothing gets overlooked and you receive the full amount you're entitled to under your policy.
We're currently licensed to work as public adjusters in:
- Virginia (VA)
- Maryland (MD)
- Washington D.C.
- Delaware (DE)
- West Virginia (WV)
Our team serves homeowners throughout these regions, from Northern Virginia and the DC metro area to Baltimore, the Eastern Shore, and beyond.
Working With AIC
Public adjusters are typically compensated based on a percentage of the insurance claim settlement, as permitted by state law and depending on claim complexity.
Our fee is discussed clearly during the consultation process, and we are only paid when you receive payment. There's no upfront cost to you.
In most cases, we recover significantly more than homeowners would on their own—often enough to cover our fee and still leave you with a larger settlement than you'd have received without professional representation.
Consider hiring us if:
- Your claim was denied or underpaid
- You're overwhelmed by the process
- You have significant damage and want to make sure nothing is missed
- You don't have time to deal with the insurance company
- You want a professional in your corner who understands insurance policies
- The insurance company's offer seems too low
The earlier you involve us, the better—but we can step in at any point in the claims process, including after you've received an initial settlement offer.
We keep you informed throughout the process. You'll have access to our client portal where you can check your claim status anytime.
We also provide regular updates by phone and email whenever there's progress on your claim—whether it's an inspection scheduled, an estimate submitted, or a response from the insurance company.
Have a question? Just call or email us. We're responsive because we know how stressful the claims process can be.
The Claims Process
We handle property damage claims for residential properties, including:
- Storm damage – wind, hail, fallen trees
- Water damage – pipe bursts, flooding, leaks
- Fire and smoke damage
- Roof damage – our HAAG-certified inspectors specialize in roof assessment
- Siding, gutter, and exterior damage
- Interior damage – ceilings, walls, flooring
If you've experienced property damage and have a homeowner's insurance policy, we can likely help.
Timeline varies depending on the complexity of the claim and the responsiveness of your insurance company. Typical ranges:
- Simple claims: 2-4 weeks
- Moderate claims: 1-3 months
- Complex or disputed claims: 3-6 months or longer
Our goal is to move your claim forward as efficiently as possible while ensuring every detail is properly documented and accounted for. We don't rush through claims at the expense of a fair settlement.
To begin, we'll need some basic information:
- Your contact information
- Property address
- Insurance company name and policy number (if available)
- Date of loss (when the damage occurred)
- Brief description of the damage
- Any photos you've taken of the damage
Don't worry if you don't have everything—we can help you gather what's needed. The most important first step is to start your claim or give us a call.
Payments & Technical
iink is one of the secure, industry-standard tools we use to support claim processing and administrative workflows.
It helps streamline documentation and payment coordination, reducing delays and manual paperwork for homeowners.
Yes. Mortgage check endorsement support is handled directly by our team.
We guide homeowners through lender requirements and documentation as part of our in-house claim support.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help. Reach out and we'll get you the answers you need—no pressure, no obligation.