Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers from the experts at Ironside Claims. With over 46 years of experience in the Greater Los Angeles insurance industry, we’ve helped resolve thousands of tricky claims. Below are answers to the most common questions we hear from homeowners, business owners, and policyholders like you.
Public adjusters are licensed experts who manage your insurance claim from start to finish. We assess damage, apply your coverage accurately, and negotiate with your insurer to secure the highest legal payout on your behalf.
Most California homeowners hire a public adjuster when the disputed amount is over $10,000 – or any time they feel overwhelmed, underpaid, or unfairly denied.
Yes. Public adjusters in California must be licensed by the California Department of Insurance and follow strict state regulations, from passing an exam to continuing education.
Consider your deductible and the potential of future insurance rate hikes to determine if it’s worth making a claim.
No, you do not need to use the contractor recommended by your insurer. Instead, you can request multiple bids and work with whichever contractor you like.
A standard homeowners insurance policy covers the structure of your home, other structures on your property (like a garage or shed), your personal belongings, and personal liability. When making a claim, your policy could also cover additional living expenses (like hotel and dining costs, if your home is unsafe) and legal fees (if necessary).
There are three main types of adjusters:
- Insurance company adjusters who are employed by insurance companies
- Independent adjusters hired by insurers as independent contractors
- Public adjusters who represent ordinary homeowners. Public adjusters, confusingly, are also known as loss adjusters, private adjusters, and private claims adjusters.
Yes, a standard homeowners insurance policy covers wildfire damage in Los Angeles.
No, a standard homeowners insurance policy does not cover flooding or mudslides in Los Angeles. Some buy insurance through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), especially if they live in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). Others buy it through private carriers.
No, a standard homeowners insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage in Los Angeles. Instead, some buy earthquake insurance through insurers that participate with the California Earthquake Authority (CEA).
Contact your insurer to begin a claim. Your insurer assigns a claim number, then dispatches an in-house adjuster to your property to survey damage.
Yes, many clients hire us before filing, after denial, or when they receive a lowball offer. We can step in at any stage to strengthen your claim, speed up processing, and increase payout.
If an insurer denies your claim, you can hire a public adjuster, appeal through your insurer’s existing dispute resolution system, or consult an attorney for further legal support.
Insurers raise rates because of higher risk. That higher risk could come from higher repair costs (including higher labor and material expenses) or an increased likelihood of a claim (say, if there’s more severe weather or if you’ve previously made a claim).
Yes, insurers tend to increase premiums after a successful claim. Insurers raise premiums 10% to 30% based on the severity of the claim and the number of claims you’ve made in the past.
Yes, public adjusters can help with both residential and commercial insurance claims. Some specialize in resolving homeowners insurance disputes, while others specialize in business interruption claims, commercial damage claims, and other issues.
Public adjusters cost anywhere from 10% to 20% of the final insurance payout. Most public adjusters apply this fee to the extra amount you received as a result of the public adjuster’s services.
Consider the cost of replacing your home and all the possessions inside your home. Then, check your insurance policy to see if it covers that amount. Check to see if your policy covers high-value items (like jewelry and electronics). Check your deductible to make sure you can afford it after a loss. Verify whether you have a replacement cost or actual cash value policy.
Signs your insurer is acting in bad faith include: failing to adequately investigate your claim, dragging its feet, requesting excessive evidence or documentation, or denying or reducing payout without good reason.
Absolutely. A large insurance claim can change your financial future for better or worse. When large sums are at stake, you can’t afford to back down. Plus, you only pay if we win, making us a risk-free partner. We fight for higher payouts and handle the claim while you focus on recovery.
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help. Book a free consultation and speak directly with one of our licensed experts – no pressure, no obligation.