Written by Clear Restoration | Published on June 2025
A public adjuster represents your interests, while an insurance company adjuster represents the insurer. That single difference can mean thousands of dollars more or less on your final settlement. This article explains how each type of adjuster works, what they cost, and when hiring a public adjuster makes sense for homeowners in Annapolis, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and across Maryland.
Understand What Each Type of Adjuster Actually Does
The word “adjuster” gets used loosely, but the two roles are very different. Knowing which one you are dealing with changes how you should approach your claim.
An insurance company adjuster is hired directly by your insurance carrier. Their job is to investigate your claim, document the damage, and calculate a settlement that falls within the policy limits. They are paid by the insurer, so their financial incentive is to settle claims efficiently for the carrier.
A public adjuster is a licensed professional you hire independently. They handle all documentation, negotiation, and communication with the insurance company on your behalf. Their goal is to maximize your payout within what your policy actually covers.
There is also a third type called an independent adjuster. Insurance companies hire these contractors when they are overwhelmed, such as after a major storm. They still work for the insurer, not for you.
Compare Public Adjusters and Insurance Adjusters Side by Side
The table below outlines the key differences so you can quickly see who each party serves and how they get paid.
| Factor | Insurance Company Adjuster | Public Adjuster |
|---|---|---|
| Who they work for | Your insurance company | You, the policyholder |
| How they are paid | Salary or contract from insurer | Percentage of your settlement (typically 10 to 20 percent) |
| Primary goal | Settle the claim per policy terms | Maximize your settlement |
| Who assigns them | Your insurance carrier | You choose and hire them |
| Licensing required | Yes, by state | Yes, by state |
| Access to your property | Yes, to assess damage | Yes, to document and build your claim |
In Maryland, public adjusters must be licensed through the Maryland Insurance Administration. Always verify a license before signing any agreement.
Know When Hiring a Public Adjuster Is Worth It
Public adjusters are not necessary for every claim. A small roof repair or a minor water leak may not justify the added cost. But for larger, more complex losses, they often deliver a meaningful return.
Consider hiring a public adjuster when:
- Your claim involves significant structural damage, such as fire, flooding, or a major roof collapse
- The insurance adjuster’s estimate feels low compared to contractor quotes you have received
- Your claim has been denied and you believe the denial is incorrect
- You do not have time to manage the paperwork and back-and-forth negotiation yourself
- The damage involves hidden issues like mold, water intrusion inside walls, or smoke damage inside ductwork
- You are a business owner dealing with a commercial property claim and lost income
Homeowners in areas like Ellicott City and Pasadena, which have seen repeated flooding events, have found public adjusters especially useful when dealing with complex multi-event water damage claims.
Review How Public Adjuster Fees Work in Maryland
Public adjusters in Maryland typically charge a percentage of the total insurance settlement. That percentage usually falls between 10 and 20 percent. Some charge a flat fee for smaller claims or supplemental work.
| Claim Settlement Amount | Public Adjuster Fee at 10% | Public Adjuster Fee at 15% |
|---|---|---|
| $10,000 | $1,000 | $1,500 |
| $25,000 | $2,500 | $3,750 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 | $7,500 |
| $100,000 | $10,000 | $15,000 |
The key question is whether the public adjuster recovers more than their fee. Studies and industry data suggest that on large, complex claims, policyholders who use public adjusters often receive settlements 20 to 40 percent higher than initial offers. That spread can make the fee worthwhile.
Always get the fee agreement in writing before work begins. Maryland law requires public adjusters to provide a written contract that outlines their compensation clearly.
Understand What Happens During the Claims Process With Each Adjuster
The timeline and experience of filing a claim can feel very different depending on which adjuster is leading the process.
When you file a claim, your insurer will assign their adjuster within a few days. That adjuster will visit your property, assess visible damage, and produce an estimate using software like Xactimate. That estimate becomes the starting point for your settlement offer.
If you hire a public adjuster, they conduct their own independent inspection. They look for damage the insurance adjuster may have missed or undervalued. They also review your policy line by line to identify all coverages that apply to your loss.
The public adjuster then submits their own detailed claim package to the insurer and negotiates directly on your behalf. You are kept informed but do not have to manage the back-and-forth yourself.
Clear Restoration works alongside public adjusters regularly in communities like Odenton, Gambrills, Crofton, and Millersville. Our damage documentation and scoping reports give adjusters the detailed evidence they need to support a stronger claim.
Recognize the Limitations of Each Option
Neither type of adjuster is perfect for every situation. Here is what to watch for with each.
Limitations of relying solely on the insurance company adjuster:
- They may miss hidden damage, especially inside walls or below flooring
- Their estimates may be based on lower-cost repair methods that do not match actual local contractor pricing
- They handle many claims at once and may not spend much time on yours
- Their loyalty is to the insurer, not to you
Limitations of public adjusters:
- Their fee reduces your net settlement, which may not be worth it on smaller claims
- Not all public adjusters are equally skilled or ethical
- Hiring one after you have already accepted a settlement may limit their ability to help
- They cannot provide legal advice or represent you in court
In Annapolis and Bowie, where older homes often have outdated materials and code compliance costs, having someone review your full policy coverage is especially important before accepting any offer.
Learn How a Restoration Company Fits Into the Process
A restoration company like Clear Restoration is not an adjuster of any kind. We do not negotiate your claim or act as your representative with the insurer. What we do is document damage thoroughly, provide accurate repair scopes, and complete the actual restoration work.
That documentation is critical regardless of which adjuster handles your claim. A well-supported damage report with photos, moisture readings, and itemized repair costs gives either adjuster a clear picture of what the loss actually involves.
Clear Restoration serves homeowners across Annapolis, Arnold, Davidsonville, Edgewater, Hanover, Laurel, and the surrounding area. When you contact us after a loss, we help you understand what damage exists so you can make informed decisions about your claim.
We never pressure homeowners to pursue one path over another. Our job is to restore your property correctly and give you accurate information to work with.
FAQs on Public Adjusters vs Insurance Company Adjusters
Can I use both a public adjuster and my own insurance adjuster at the same time?
Yes. The public adjuster works alongside the insurance company adjuster, not instead of them. The insurance company still sends their adjuster. Your public adjuster communicates directly with them and advocates for a higher settlement on your behalf.
Is it legal to hire a public adjuster in Maryland?
Yes, it is completely legal. Public adjusters in Maryland must be licensed by the Maryland Insurance Administration. You can verify a license on the MIA’s website before signing any contract with one.
Will hiring a public adjuster slow down my insurance claim?
It can add time to the process because the public adjuster conducts their own inspection and negotiation. However, many homeowners find the higher settlement is worth the extra few weeks. Very complex claims often take longer regardless of who is involved.
Can I hire a public adjuster after my claim has already been settled?
In most cases, once you accept and sign a final settlement, your options are limited. If you have not signed a final release, a public adjuster may still be able to reopen or supplement your claim. Contact one quickly if you think your settlement was too low.
What should I look for when hiring a public adjuster in Maryland?
Verify their Maryland license, ask for references from past clients, review their fee agreement carefully, and make sure they have experience with your specific type of damage. Avoid anyone who pressures you to sign immediately or guarantees a specific settlement amount.
Does Clear Restoration work with public adjusters?
Yes. Clear Restoration regularly works alongside public adjusters to provide damage documentation and accurate repair scoping. Our detailed reports support the claim process whether you are using a public adjuster or working directly with your insurer.
Wrap Up and Next Steps
The bottom line is simple. An insurance company adjuster works for your insurer, and a public adjuster works for you. For significant losses, especially water damage, fire damage, or storm damage, having someone in your corner can make a real financial difference.
Clear Restoration is here to help homeowners across Annapolis, Columbia, Glen Burnie, Odenton, Laurel, and all surrounding Maryland communities with accurate damage assessment and professional restoration. Call us at 443 216 9272 to schedule an inspection or get answers about the claims process. We will help you understand what you are dealing with so you can move forward with confidence.