Claim guides · Inspection

What to Expect When the Insurance Adjuster Inspects the Damage

The insurer’s adjuster (a staff or independent adjuster) inspects for the insurer and writes an estimate. A public adjuster is the only type that works for the policyholder. Several state laws spell out the three types in a required disclosure.

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The short answer

Three kinds of adjusters

North Carolina and Nebraska law require a public adjuster to give you a written disclosure, before you sign, that describes the three types of adjusters who could be involved in a claim. In short:

Adjuster type	Who they work for	Who pays them
Company (staff) adjuster	The insurance company	The insurance company; no fee to you
Independent adjuster	The insurance company, hired on contract	The insurance company; no fee to you
Public adjuster Best for most policyholders	You, the policyholder	You, under a written contract

Sources: N.C. Gen. Stat. 58-33A-65 (contracts and disclosures); Neb. Rev. Stat. 44-9214 (contracts and disclosures). More detail: public adjuster vs. insurance adjuster.

Before the visit

Have your photos, inventory and weather records ready. Documentation checklist
If you have a contractor’s or roofer’s opinion, ask them to attend.
Make a list of every damaged area so nothing gets skipped.

During the visit

Be there if you can, and walk the property with the adjuster. The Texas Department of Insurance suggests doing exactly this so nothing is missed, and notes you may want your contractor there to discuss estimates or technical details. Take your own photos of anything the adjuster measures or tests.

After the visit

Ask for the estimate and the adjuster’s photos in writing.
Ask how depreciation was calculated and what the next payment steps are.
Compare the estimate line by line with your contractor’s. If the estimate looks low

Commercial property

Large losses may involve engineers, roof cores or moisture surveys across several buildings. Ask who each person works for and request copies of their reports.

Your home

Common questions are repair versus replace, and whether new materials will match what’s left. Ask the adjuster to explain both in the estimate.

Sources

Last checked: October 28, 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.

Questions

Common questions

Does the insurance company’s adjuster work for me?

No. Staff and independent adjusters are hired and paid by the insurer and represent the insurer. A public adjuster is the only type that represents the policyholder, under a contract you sign and pay for.

Should I be there when the adjuster inspects?

Yes, if you can. Walk the property together, point out every damaged area, and consider having your contractor there.

Can I get a copy of the adjuster’s estimate?

Ask for it in writing, along with the photos. You need it to compare with your contractor’s estimate.

Don’t navigate your insurance claim alone

Talk with a Mission PLC public adjuster about your loss. The consultation is free.