Frequently Asked Questions

Potential pitfalls include hiring inexperienced adjusters, overpaying for services, or dealing with unethical practices.

It's recommended. Fire damage claims can be complex and a public adjuster can help ensure all damages are accounted for.

They represent policyholders, assessing and negotiating insurance claims to secure the best possible settlement.

The standard process generally involves: notifying the insurance company, documenting the damage, receiving a claim assessment from the insurer's adjuster, negotiating the claim amount, and receiving the settlement.

After a loss, it's your responsibility to promptly notify your insurance company, protect your property from further damage, document and list damaged items, and cooperate with the claims process.

While insurance agents can provide guidance and assist in initiating a claim, they don't handle the detailed assessment and negotiation. That's where a public adjuster or an insurance company adjuster comes in.

The duration varies based on claim complexity, but using a public adjuster can expedite the process due to their expertise. Generally, it can range from a few weeks to several months.

Yes, Kevin Godfrey is a licensed and experienced public adjuster serving New York, especially the Long Island area.

It depends on the severity of the claim. For larger, more complex claims they can help you navigate home insurance claims and secure a better payout. A good public adjuster will guide you on your next best steps during a free consultation.

A public adjuster is a professional who represents policyholders in appraising and negotiating insurance claims.

Yes, water damage claims can be complex and a public adjuster can ensure all damages are accounted for.

Yes, it's an industry-standard software for estimating insurance claims, and Kevin Godfrey is certified at the highest level in Xactimate.

Yes, in New York State, public adjusters are required to post a bond before obtaining a license.

A public adjuster represents policyholders, while an insurance company represents its own interests.

Contact your state's insurance department or a legal professional for guidance on potential misconduct.

While both evaluate claims, public adjusters represent the policyholder, and insurance adjusters represent the insurance company.

Research and read reviews, check their credentials and licenses, interview potential adjusters, and ask for references to ensure they have a good track record and experience.

It involves assessing damage, documenting claims, negotiating with insurance companies, and securing a fair settlement for policyholders.

Document all attempts at communication, consider seeking legal advice, and notify your state's insurance department if needed.

Yes, public adjusters are licensed to operate in NYC and can be very beneficial in urban settings due to the complexities of having multiple stakeholders.

Yes, especially if the damage is extensive. A public adjuster can ensure you get a fair settlement to cover repairs or replacement.

Public adjusters typically charge a percentage of the settlement amount. The exact percentage varies based on the adjuster and the complexity of the claim. In Long Island, NY the average rate is between 7 - 10%.

Adjusters must pass an examination, submit an application, provide proof of bond, and pay a licensing fee.

Yes, we provide a 30-minute free consultation to discuss your claim and how we can assist you.

Commissions in New York have a maximum of 12.5%, but usually range between 7-10% of the claim payout, depending on the size and type of the claim.

It's beneficial, as hail damage can often lead to undervalued claims. A public adjuster can ensure you get a fair assessment.

Appraisers determine property value, while public adjusters assess and negotiate insurance claim values.

Yes, public adjusters can review denied claims, identify discrepancies or areas of contention, and negotiate with the insurer to potentially reverse or adjust the denial.

Fees are typically a percentage of the gross claim settlement, often between 7-10%. This can apply to Coverage A: Dwelling, Coverage B: Other Structures, Coverage C: Personal Property and Coverage D: Additional Living Expenses. Fees are not usually taken from vendors such as remediation, dry cleaners, etc.

Absolutely. They specialize in handling large and complex claims, like those from hurricanes.

A homeowners insurance claim is a formal request by a policyholder to their insurance company for coverage or compensation for a specific loss or damage to their property as defined in the insurance policy.

Often, insurance companies make checks payable to both the policyholder and the public adjuster to ensure transparency, however they should not be named on checks that exceed their total fee.

Long Island Public Adjusters, LLC. Contact Kevin Godfrey at 516-410-0164 or email at liadjusters@gmail.com.

Pros: Expertise in claims, potential for higher settlement. Cons: Costs associated with their fees, potential delays.

A standard contract usually includes terms of compensation, services provided, duration of the agreement, and responsibilities of both parties. The contract is dictated by the New York State Department of Financial Services.

If you're facing a complex claim or feel underprepared to handle negotiations with your insurer, hiring a public adjuster can be beneficial to ensure you receive a fair settlement.

Public adjusters handle insurance claims, while lawyers provide legal representation, often in disputes.