Short answer: A public adjuster is someone you hire to handle your claim against your own insurer. In Illinois, they must be licensed by the Department of Insurance, use a written contract, and on personal-residence claims their fee is generally capped at 10% of the settlement. After a tornado or hailstorm, report the claim, document the damage and verify any adjuster's license first.
What a public adjuster does
The insurer's adjuster works for the insurance company. A public adjuster works for you, preparing and negotiating your claim in exchange for a percentage of the payment. The Illinois Department of Insurance's public adjuster page explains that public adjusters must be licensed by the Department, must use a written contract, and are paid by you. The Department lists 866-445-5364 for verifying licenses.
The fee cap
Illinois law (the public adjuster provisions of the Insurance Code, 215 ILCS 5/1570 et seq.) generally caps public adjuster fees on personal-residence claims at 10% of the amount paid. Read the contract carefully for the percentage, cancellation terms and what the fee applies to.
Do you need one?
A public adjuster can help on large, complex losses, such as a total loss, a disputed scope or major contents claims. For a straightforward roof claim, many homeowners handle it directly. Either way:
- [ ] Report the loss promptly and get a claim number.
- [ ] Photograph and video the damage, and make safe temporary repairs. Keep the receipts.
- [ ] Ask the insurer's adjuster to explain the estimate, deductible and any limits.
The Department's post-disaster claims guide walks through these steps.
Contractor scams after storms
The Illinois Attorney General warns about storm-repair scams. Use an established local contractor, get written estimates, check roofing licenses, insurance and permits, and never pay in full before the work is done.
Bottom line
Verify the license and read the contract before you sign with a public adjuster. In Illinois, the fee on a home claim is generally capped at 10%. See tornadoes by state.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. Vea insurance in Illinois.
Frequently asked questions
What is a public adjuster?
A licensed professional you hire to prepare and negotiate your claim with your own insurer, paid from the settlement.
How much can an Illinois public adjuster charge?
Fees on personal-residence claims are generally capped at 10% of the amount paid.
Do Illinois public adjusters need a license?
Yes. They must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Insurance and use a written contract.
Do I need a public adjuster for a roof claim?
Not always; they are most useful for large or disputed losses.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.