Frequently Asked Questions

What is meant by the term "accredited" public insurance adjuster?

It means that Commonwealth Adjusters acts according to a strict code of ethics established by the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters and is an accredited member of that association.

Is Commonwealth Adjusters connected with insurance companies?

No. We are employed exclusively by you - the policyholder - not by an insurance company.

How can Commonwealth Adjusters help me?

You will have the comfort and advantage of expert assistance based on broad experience guiding you through the process. Commonwealth Adjusters relieves you of the many time-consuming and difficult matters involved in preparing and filing a claim - and helps you to receive a prompt and fair settlement.

Can I prepare my own claim?

Yes, but it stands to reason that an accredited, experienced professional in any field will achieve more rewarding results than a layperson.

More specifically, Commonwealth Adjusters will assist you in the preparation of inventories, estimates and other factual proofs of loss. We will handle all the necessary details for compiling and filing claims, as required by the terms of your insurance policies. We will also confer, on your behalf, with insurance company representatives and handle all matters essential to a proper and satisfactory adjustment.

Why do I need help in filing an insurance claim?

The typical fire policy contains hundreds of provisions and stipulations - various forms and riders that are constantly changing and many complex details about your requirements in case of loss. Most people do not know or understand these policy provisions - and most do not realize that the burden of proof is on them, the policyholder. Most insurance company representatives actually prefer to work with an experienced, accredited public insurance adjuster rather than an inexperienced policyholder.

An accredited public insurance adjuster associated with Commonwealth Adjusters not only has your confidence, but also that of insurance company adjusters who recognize that they are dealing with a professional.

In the event of a fire or similar destruction of property, does my insurance pay the entire loss?

This depends upon the type and amount of insurance you carry. It also depends on your expertise or the expertise of your representative, not that of the insurance company's adjuster. Many insurance policies may pay more than the amount shown on the declaration page. A qualified expert working for you can determine everything to which you are entitled.

Why should I engage Commonwealth Adjusters to obtain what is rightfully due to me?

Insurance companies offer to pay what is due to you as they see it. Commonwealth Adjusters is your exclusive representative. With our experience and knowledge we are better able to obtain a more favorable adjustment for you, the insured.

What is the extent of Commonwealth Adjusters’ responsibility?

Your public insurance adjuster assists with every phase of preparing and presenting your claim, as well as accomplishing an adjustment for you which is equitable and includes everything to which you are entitled under your insurance policy.

How does Commonwealth Adjusters determine the actual loss?

We take a physical inventory, obtain all pertinent appraisals, and make sure all provisions in your policy are properly fulfilled. This often involves numerous steps about which you may know little or nothing but can make a significant difference in the amount of the final adjustment.

What special help can Commonwealth Adjusters give me with technical questions?

We are the experts to turn to when such matters arise. There may be many questions and problems as to how the policy provisions can be applied in different circumstances, and we can apply broad experience and specialized knowledge to represent your interests in answering such questions and resolving such problems. It is up to you to prove your loss, and we can help you do it.

Will Commonwealth Adjusters help me receive a more prompt and satisfactory settlement?

Yes. We lose no time in complying with the policy requirements to obtain and evaluate the facts and prepare the claim. The alert, knowledgeable, and prompt service we render often preserves evidence that may otherwise be overlooked or destroyed. The more thoroughly and completely your claim is compiled and prepared, the faster your public insurance adjuster can accomplish an equitable and proper settlement in your best interest.

Once a policyholder has witnessed the skill and knowledge of the accredited public insurance adjusters of Commonwealth Adjusters, he or she will not want to attempt to settle a claim without the benefit of their specialized assistance. Commonwealth Adjusters’ best source of new clients is the recommendations of those we have previously served.

In the event of a loss, what steps should I take?

Promptly report the loss to the agent or broker, or directly to the insurance company - and immediately retain the services of Commonwealth Adjusters to serve you.

Does Commonwealth adjusters take care of claims other than fire?

Yes. We will assist you in any claims you may have due to windstorm, explosion, and any other insured losses that are sustained (inland marine, business interruption, rental income, improvements and betterments, commission and profit, reporting forms, additional expense, etc.).

How much does Commonwealth Adjusters charge for their services?

Fees are contingent upon recovery and on a percentage basis. The percentage can be agreed upon in advance so there are no surprises or misunderstandings after settlement is concluded. We represent YOU, and only you.