When a claim goes wrong, the hardest part can be deciding who to call. An appraiser, a public adjuster and an attorney each handle different problems. Here’s a simple way to sort it out.
Start with the question you need answered
| Your situation | Usually a fit for |
|---|---|
| Coverage accepted, amount disputed | Appraiser |
| Early in a complex claim, need help presenting it | Public adjuster |
| Claim denied, coverage dispute or deadline near | Attorney |
| Need to know if the estimate is low | Estimate review |
Appraisers
An appraiser works within the policy’s appraisal clause on the amount of loss. The result is a binding award on the amount. Appraisers don’t decide coverage or give legal advice.
Public adjusters
Public adjusters in Utah are licensed by the Utah Insurance Department. They prepare and negotiate claims on the policyholder’s behalf, usually for a percentage fee. They can be involved from the start of a claim.
Attorneys
Attorneys handle legal disputes: denials, coverage interpretation, claims-handling issues and lawsuits. If a deadline is approaching or the insurer has denied coverage, talk with a Utah attorney promptly.
Using more than one
These roles can work together. An attorney may recommend appraisal for the amount while handling coverage separately. A public adjuster may bring in an appraiser once appraisal is demanded. What matters is that each role is clear.