What Does a Public Adjuster in Texas Do? A Homeowner's Guide to Property Damage Claims

Introduction

Dealing with an insurance claim after property damage in Texas can be confusing and time-consuming. Between reading policy details and negotiating with insurance companies, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This is where a public adjuster comes in.

A public adjuster in Texas is a licensed professional who helps homeowners and business owners handle their property damage claims. Unlike adjusters who work for your insurance company, public adjusters work for you. Their goal is to help you get the full value of your claim.

In this article, we’ll break down what a public adjuster in Texas does, when you might need one, and how hiring one can make the difference between a lowball offer and a fair settlement.

What Is a Public Adjuster?

A public adjuster is a licensed insurance claims professional who represents policyholders, not insurance companies. Their job is to evaluate your property damage, understand your insurance policy, and negotiate with your insurer to help you receive the highest possible payout.

Public adjusters in Texas are regulated by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI). You can verify licenses and complaints directly on the TDI website.

What Does a Public Adjuster in Texas Do?

Public adjusters in Texas typically handle the following responsibilities:

1. Inspect and Document the Damage

After a flood, storm, fire, or other disaster, a public adjuster will visit your property to inspect the damage. They’ll take detailed notes, photographs, and videos, and may bring in experts like contractors or engineers to fully assess the situation.

2. Review Your Insurance Policy

Policies are full of complicated language and fine print. A public adjuster will go through your policy line-by-line to determine what’s covered, what’s not, and how much you’re entitled to under your terms.

3. Prepare and Submit the Claim

Public adjusters prepare the full claim on your behalf. This includes estimates, proof of loss, itemized damage reports, and other supporting documents. Submitting a complete and properly formatted claim greatly improves your chances of getting a timely and fair payout.

4. Negotiate with the Insurance Company

Perhaps the most important role of a public adjuster is negotiating with your insurance company. Adjusters working for your insurer may undervalue the damage or try to deny coverage. A public adjuster pushes back with evidence and data to support your claim.

5. Follow Up Until Settlement

Once the claim is submitted, the adjuster keeps in contact with the insurance company until the claim is resolved. This ensures your case doesn’t get delayed or ignored.

When Should You Hire a Public Adjuster in Texas?

You may want to consider hiring a public adjuster in Texas if:

• Your damage is extensive: For serious roof damage, fire loss, mold, or flooding, a public adjuster can help ensure nothing is missed.

• Your claim has been denied or underpaid: If your insurer says the damage isn't covered or offers less than expected, a public adjuster can challenge the decision.

• You don’t have time or experience: The insurance process is time-consuming. If you’re not comfortable dealing with complex paperwork or negotiating, a public adjuster can handle it for you.

• You’re worried about being treated unfairly: If you suspect your insurer isn't acting in good faith, a public adjuster can be your advocate.

How Are Public Adjusters Paid?

Public adjusters in Texas typically work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if you receive a settlement. The fee is a percentage of the total claim payout—usually around 10%, but it can vary.

Texas law caps the fee a public adjuster can charge to 10% of the insurance settlement. Always get the fee agreement in writing before moving forward.

How Louis Law Group Can Help

At Louis Law Group, we regularly work with clients in Texas who are struggling with denied, delayed, or underpaid insurance claims. While public adjusters help document and negotiate claims, we step in when legal pressure is needed.

Our attorneys are experienced in interpreting policy language, filing lawsuits when necessary, and making sure insurance companies meet their obligations. If your insurer continues to act unfairly—even after working with a public adjuster—we can take legal action on your behalf.

Need guidance on when to hire a public adjuster or what legal options are available to you? Louis Law Group is here to help.

Tips for Choosing a Public Adjuster in Texas

• Verify their license at the Texas Department of Insurance.

• Ask for references and look for online reviews.

• Get a clear written contract, including fees and services.

• Avoid high-pressure sales tactics—reputable adjusters don’t rush your decision.

• Be wary of conflicts of interest, such as adjusters who refer only one contractor.

FAQ: Public Adjusters in Texas

Q: How do I verify a public adjuster’s license in Texas?

A: Visit the Texas Department of Insurance website and use their license lookup tool.

Q: What types of claims do public adjusters handle?

A: Public adjusters usually handle property damage claims related to fire, wind, water, hail, mold, and theft.

Q: Can I hire a public adjuster after my claim is denied?

A: Yes. A public adjuster can review your denial, gather more evidence, and help resubmit or dispute the claim.

Q: Is it worth hiring a public adjuster for a small claim?

A: It depends. For small claims, the cost may not be justified. But for large or disputed claims, their value can be substantial.

Q: What’s the difference between a public adjuster and an attorney?

A: A public adjuster negotiates the claim amount. An attorney steps in when legal issues arise or the insurer is acting in bad faith.

Conclusion

Public adjusters in Texas can be valuable advocates after your home or business suffers property damage. They assess your losses, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure your insurance company doesn’t shortchange you.

If you’re facing a complicated insurance claim, denied coverage, or just want peace of mind that you’re being treated fairly, working with a public adjuster may be the right step. And if you need legal support during or after the claims process, Louis Law Group is here to help.

Are you confident your insurance company is giving you the compensation you deserve?

Contact Louis Law Group today for a free consultation. Call 833-657-4812 or submit a free case evaluation form to get started. Don’t wait—let us help you take the first step toward justice and financial recovery.