Hurricane Victims Turning to Public Adjusters?

Claims News Service, Nov. 28, 2:45 p.m. EST -- Some hurricane victims throughout the Gulf Coast and Florida are reportedly hiring the services of public adjusters to handle their insurance claims, according to Florida-based Insurance Claim Consultants, a group doing business as The Public Adjusters.

Public adjusters are insurance adjustment experts who work exclusively for the policyholder in cases where a hurricane or some other insured peril occurs.Some hurricane victims have become frustrated with their insurance companies' slow responses to their claims and deficient estimates to repair their damaged properties. "We had countless months of nothing happening, due in part by our dependence and trust that the insurance company would do the right thing," said Mel Goldsmith, general manager of Imperial House condominiums in Miami. "Our settlement was in excess of 400% of the insurance company's offer prior to retaining Insurance Claim Consultants."Ronald Delo, of Insurance Claim Consultants,.warns that people interested in hiring the service of a public adjuster should ensure the firm garners strong client referrals and a proven track record.