FAQ

A public adjuster is an independent insurance professional hired by a policyholder to represent their interests during the insurance claim process. Unlike insurance company adjusters who work for the insurer, a public adjuster works exclusively on behalf of the property owner.

Public adjusters review the insurance policy, document the full extent of the damage, prepare detailed estimates, and negotiate with the insurance company to help ensure the claim is evaluated accurately and fairly.

Property owners often consider professional representation when:

• Their claim seems undervalued or underpaid

• The scope of damage is unclear or disputed

• The insurance company’s estimate seems incomplete

• The claim process has become confusing or time-consuming

• A large or complex loss has occurred

• The insurance company has delayed or questioned the claim

Even if you are unsure whether professional representation is necessary, a consultation can help clarify your situation and options.

Axiom Insurance Services works with residential and commercial property owners dealing with many types of property damage claims, including:

• Storm and hail damage

• Wind damage

• Fire and smoke damage

• Water damage

• Structural damage

• Large or complex property losses

Each claim is unique, and our role is to ensure the loss is fully evaluated and properly documented.

While every claim is different, most follow a general process:

• Inspection and Documentation: The property is inspected and damage is documented.

• Claim Evaluation: The insurance company evaluates the damage and prepares an estimate.

• Settlement Negotiation: The value of the claim is discussed and adjusted as needed.

• Claim Resolution: A final settlement is reached based on the documented loss.

The appraisal process is a dispute resolution method used when a policyholder and insurance company disagree on the value of a loss. In this process:

• The policyholder selects an appraiser.

• The insurance company selects its own appraiser.

• The two appraisers select an impartial umpire.

If the appraisers cannot agree, the umpire reviews the findings. Any decision agreed upon by two of the three parties becomes binding. Appraisal can be an effective way to resolve valuation disputes without litigation.

An umpire serves as a neutral third party during the appraisal process. When the two appraisers cannot fully agree on the value of a claim, the umpire reviews the documentation and helps determine the final value of the loss. Because the outcome of appraisal is legally binding when two of the three parties agree, selecting an experienced and impartial umpire is important.

A property damage estimate is a detailed calculation of the cost required to repair or replace damaged property. This estimate typically includes materials, labor, and any additional construction requirements needed to restore the property. Accurate estimating is critical to ensuring that all aspects of a loss are properly considered and that the claim reflects the true cost of repairs.

Not necessarily. Insurance company estimates may sometimes overlook damages, underestimate costs, or rely on limited information. Policyholders have the right to review the settlement, request clarification, and seek professional assistance if they believe the claim may not have been evaluated fully.

Understanding your policy and the full scope of damage is important before accepting a final settlement.

Many property owners contact us after their claim has already been submitted. In some cases, it may still be possible to review the claim, identify overlooked damages, or assist with dispute resolution depending on the stage of the claim. A review of the policy, claim documentation, and current claim status can help determine whether additional advocacy may be beneficial.