So I came home from a weekend away to my apartment full of smoke and soot. While I was gone, my downstairs neighbor’s alarm clock caught on fire and the smoke and soot came up through the vents & walls into my apartment. I think I have pretty good renters’ insurance and so far my adjuster has seemed really invested in making sure my things are taken care of (my policy only covers damages to personal property, not any part of the unit itself).
However, my landlord keeps recommending that I seek out a public adjuster for help and I’m not sure if I should take her advice or not. From my (very quick) research, it seems like my case is probably too straightforward and low stakes to warrant hiring a public adjuster. However, I wanted to check in here and see what other more experienced people would advise. Do you think my landlord is looking out for my best interest (HA) or is maybe trying to boost a friend’s business?
Also, this is my first foray into filing any sort of insurance claim and I’m still learning what all the terms mean & what the process looks like, so please explain things in simple terms when possible! tyia!
Do I need a public adjuster for a fire in a rental unit?
byu/Usual_Skin_6388 inInsurance
Posted by Usual_Skin_6388
2 Comments
I would advise against it. You can only collect your policy limits. A PA is going to take 30% of the payout.
You’ll need to know your personal property limit and your additional living expense limit.
You don’t need one. The forms are a pain, but doable. Take plenty of pictures,video too. Keep all receipts, give detailed descriptions of each item. Ex. Brand names. model numbers, material, leather vs bonded leather etc. If you have a replacement cost endorsement, and you replace the irnd you will be reimbursed when you send proof.
You know your property better than a PA would. Hiring one would get be paying someone to fill out paperwork for information you supply.