Why You Should Talk to a Public Adjuster—Not a Contractor—Before Filing a Claim

As a homeowner, discovering damage to your home—whether from wind, hail, fire, or water—is stressful enough. But the moment it happens, everyone has an opinion: the roofer says you should file a claim, your neighbor gives you advice based on their experience, and contractors start showing up at your door with promises of “help.”

Here’s the truth: the first person you should talk to is a licensed Public Insurance Adjuster—not a contractor, not a roofer, plumber, technician and not even your insurance company just yet.

As a Public Adjuster, I represent you, the policyholder. My job is to make sure your claim is filed correctly, your damages are fully documented, and your settlement reflects what you’re actually owed—not what’s convenient for the insurance company or profitable for a contractor.

Contractors Have Different Priorities Than You Do

Let’s be clear: there are many honest, hardworking contractors out there—but contractors are in the business of selling repairs, not navigating the insurance claims process. That means:

  • A roofer may encourage you to file a claim whether it’s valid or not—because they want the job.  Or not file a claim because they want to sell a roof today and don’t care about your finances.
  • A contractor may offer to “handle your claim” for you—which is illegal in many states unless they are also licensed Public Adjusters.
  • Some may overpromise results or push for scope of work that doesn’t match what your policy actually covers.

The risk? You may end up filing a claim that gets denied, flagged as questionable, or leaves you on the hook for costs the insurer won’t cover.

Only a Public Adjuster Works for the Homeowner

Unlike contractors or insurance company adjusters, a Public Adjuster is licensed to represent your financial interests in the claim. We:

  • Inspect all damages objectively—not just what a roofer wants to replace
  • Interpret your policy to determine coverage
  • Document everything thoroughly to support your claim
  • Negotiate directly with the insurance company for a fair settlement

We don’t profit from doing the work—we get paid only when you get paid, and our incentive is to maximize your claim, not sell you a new roof.

Filing the Wrong Claim Can Hurt You

Did you know that even a denied or zero-paid claim still goes on your insurance record? Filing a claim without proper guidance can result in:

  • Premium increases
  • Policy cancellations or non-renewals
  • Out-of-pocket costs if the damage isn’t covered

Many homeowners are pressured into filing by a contractor who spotted “damage,” only to find out later that it wasn’t covered—or wasn’t significant enough to meet their deductible.

A Public Adjuster helps you decide if filing is in your best interest.

Public Adjusters Know the Full Picture

We don’t just walk your roof—we assess your entire property, including:

  • Roof
  • Siding
  • Gutters
  • Interior water damage
  • Windows
  • Structural issues
  • Mold and hidden damage

We also understand how policies are written, and we know what the insurance company needs to see to approve your claim.

Bottom Line: Get Advice That’s Actually for You

When your home is damaged, the last thing you want is advice that serves someone else’s bottom line. A contractor’s goal is to land a job. An insurance adjuster’s goal is to save their company money.

A Public Adjuster’s goal? To make sure you’re made whole.

Let’s Get It Right From the Start

If you’re unsure whether to file a claim, call a Public Adjuster first. We’ll give you an honest assessment of your damages, your coverage, and your options—so you can make the right decision for your home and your wallet.

📞 Contact David Kanter Public Insurance Adjuster today for a free consultation before you file. We’re here to protect your interests from day one.

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