Public Adjuster
Homeowner-side claim preparation guidance for water, roof, fire, smoke, and mold property losses in North Georgia.
A public adjuster represents the homeowner — not the insurance company — when documenting and negotiating a property damage claim. In Georgia, public adjusters must be licensed by the Office of Commissioner of Insurance and are typically engaged after a major water loss, roof storm event, fire/smoke incident, or a denied or underpaid claim. This page is homeowner education only and is not legal or licensed advice; for a binding opinion on coverage or appraisal, speak with a licensed Georgia public adjuster or attorney.
Published Public Adjuster city guides
Typical costs
Georgia public adjusters typically work on a contingency fee, commonly 10%–15% of the recovered claim amount on open losses (and lower on supplemental work). Fees are regulated and capped under O.C.G.A. for declared catastrophe events. Always read the contract and cancellation window before signing.
Most common problems we see
- Water damage claims — sudden plumbing leaks, supply-line bursts, and storm-driven roof infiltration (gradual seepage and long-term leaks are usually excluded)
- Roof damage claims — wind-lifted shingles, hail bruising, and falling-tree impacts common across Gwinnett, Hall, and Jackson counties
- Fire and smoke claims — including secondary smoke residue, HVAC contamination, and contents loss documentation
- Mold-related claims — coverage typically only when triggered by a covered water loss; most policies cap mold remediation at $5,000–$10,000
- Underpaid or partially denied claims where the carrier estimate omits code upgrades, matching, or hidden damage
- Appraisal and re-inspection disputes when the carrier and homeowner disagree on scope or amount of loss
Homeowner money-saving tips
- 1Photograph and video every room before disaster season — this baseline evidence is the single highest-value step a homeowner can take
- 2Request a certified copy of your full policy (declarations + forms + endorsements) before filing — carriers must provide it
- 3Keep a written log of every adjuster call, voicemail, and email with dates and names
- 4Get an independent contractor estimate alongside the carrier's — Xactimate line-item gaps are where most underpayments hide
- 5Understand the Georgia appraisal clause: when invoked, each side picks an appraiser and they jointly select an umpire to resolve the amount of loss
- 6Verify any public adjuster on the Georgia OCI license lookup before signing a representation agreement
FAQ
What does a public adjuster actually do?
They document the loss, prepare a detailed estimate using the same software carriers use (typically Xactimate), submit the claim with supporting evidence, and negotiate scope and amount with the carrier's adjuster on the homeowner's behalf. They do not provide legal advice.
When should a Georgia homeowner hire a public adjuster?
Most homeowners consider it after a large water, roof, fire, or smoke loss, after a denial or lowball offer, or when the damage spans multiple trades. For small single-trade losses it is usually unnecessary.
How much do public adjusters charge in Georgia?
Typically 10%–15% of the recovered amount on open claims, with statutory caps during declared catastrophes. Fees, cancellation rights, and scope must be disclosed in writing under Georgia law.
Are mold claims covered by Georgia homeowners insurance?
Usually only when the mold results from a covered sudden water loss (e.g., a burst supply line). Long-term leaks and humidity-driven mold are generally excluded, and most policies cap mold remediation between $5,000 and $10,000 unless additional coverage was purchased.
What is the appraisal process?
When the carrier and homeowner disagree on the amount of loss, either party can invoke the policy's appraisal clause. Each side selects an appraiser; the two appraisers select a neutral umpire. Any two of the three agreeing fixes the amount of loss. Appraisal resolves amount, not coverage disputes.
What if my claim was underpaid or denied?
Request the carrier's full estimate in writing, compare it line-by-line to an independent contractor estimate, and ask in writing for a re-inspection. If gaps remain, a licensed public adjuster or attorney can advise on next steps including appraisal or supplemental claims.
What are the most common mistakes homeowners make?
Signing assignment-of-benefits forms without reading them, discarding damaged materials before inspection, missing notice deadlines, and accepting the first check without confirming it is not labeled final payment.