How Public Adjusters Maximize Insurance Claims: Expert Guide + Real Case Studies

November 19, 2025

Navigating Insurance Claims with Confidence: A Public Adjuster’s Guide to Maximizing Your Settlement

By Florida AllStar Public Adjusting, Inc. (FAPA)
Serving Florida and Georgia with 24/7 claim support

Introduction: Why Public Adjusters Matter More Than Ever

When disaster strikes—whether it’s a burst pipe, hurricane damage, or a kitchen fire—homeowners and business owners often find themselves overwhelmed. Filing an insurance claim should be straightforward, but the reality is often the opposite. That’s where public adjusters step in.

At FAPA, we’ve helped thousands of clients across Florida and Georgia recover what they’re rightfully owed. This guide combines our field-tested experience, expert insights, and interviews with real clients and professionals to help you understand how to navigate the insurance claim process with confidence.

What Is a Public Adjuster?

A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents policyholders—not insurance companies—in evaluating and negotiating insurance claims. Unlike company adjusters, who work for insurers, public adjusters work solely for you.

“Hiring a public adjuster was the best decision I made after my house flooded. The insurance company offered $12,000. AllStar got me $48,000.”
— Maria T., Fort Lauderdale homeowner

Common Types of Claims We Handle

At Florida AllStar Public Adjusting, we specialize in a wide range of residential and commercial claims:

Water damage (burst pipes, roof leaks, appliance failures)
Mold damage (often hidden and denied by insurers)
Fire and smoke damage
Hurricane and windstorm claims
Business interruption losses
Vandalism and theft

For a full list, visit our Types of Claims page.

Real Case Study: From Denial to $55,000 Payout

One of our clients, Mr. G, filed a claim for a bathroom pipe leak. The insurer initially denied the claim, arguing the damage wasn’t “sudden and accidental.” After FAPA got involved:

We documented the damage with high-resolution photos and video.
We created a detailed line-item estimate.
We negotiated directly with the insurer’s adjuster.

Final result: $55,000 payout.
Read more on our Claim Results page.

Interview: Insights from a Senior Public Adjuster

We spoke with James, a senior adjuster at AllStar, about what homeowners often overlook.

Q: What’s the biggest mistake people make after property damage?
James: “They clean up too quickly. Always document everything first—photos, videos, receipts. And don’t throw anything away until a professional sees it. Also, don’t fix anything until the insurance company has a chance to view it. This could prejudice your claim!”

Q: When should someone call a public adjuster?
James: “Immediately. The earlier we’re involved, the better we can protect your claim.”

Step-by-Step Guide: How to File a Strong Insurance Claim

1. Document Everything

Take photos and videos of all damage.
Save receipts for emergency repairs or temporary lodging.
Keep a log of all communication with your insurer.

2. Review Your Policy

Understand your coverage, deductibles, and exclusions. If it’s unclear, we’ll review it for free.

3. File Promptly

Most policies require claims to be filed within a specific timeframe. Don’t delay.

4. Call a Public Adjuster

We’ll inspect the damage, prepare a professional estimate, and handle negotiations.

Why Insurance Companies Undervalue Claims

Insurers are for-profit businesses. Their adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. According to a study by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) in Florida, policyholders who used public adjusters received up to 747% more than those who didn’t.

Tools and Resources for Policyholders

Loss Draft Department Directory – Helps you get your insurance check endorsed by your mortgage company.
Public Adjuster Resources – Find adjusters by location and claim type.
Florida Department of Financial Services – Verify licenses and file complaints.

Interview: A Contractor’s Perspective

We also spoke with Luis M., a licensed contractor in Miami, who frequently works with public adjusters.

Q: How does working with a public adjuster affect your job?
Luis: “It makes everything smoother. They speak the insurer’s language, so I can focus on repairs instead of paperwork.”

Q: Any advice for homeowners?
Luis: “Don’t accept the first offer. It’s usually low. Let a pro fight for you.”

FAQs About Public Adjusters

Q: How much does it cost to hire a public adjuster?
A: We only get paid if you do. Our fee is a small percentage of your final settlement. No more than 20% of your settlemen for non hurricane claims and no more than 10% if it is a hurricane claim within the first year. Public adjusters are tightly regulated by the state of Florida. Be carefull–there are some public adjusters who will try to charge you more than what is legal.

Q: Can I hire a public adjuster after I’ve already filed a claim?
A: Yes. Even if your claim was denied or underpaid, we can reopen it.

Q: Are public adjusters licensed?
A: Absolutely. FAPA is licensed in Florida and Georgia. You can verify our credentials here.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Settle for Less

Insurance claims are complex, stressful, and often unfair. But you don’t have to go it alone. At Florida AllStar Public Adjusting, Inc (dba FAPA) we’ve helped over 950 clients recover millions in settlements. Whether you’re facing a denied claim or just starting the process, we’re here to help—24/7.

📞 Call us now at 954-659-8333
🌐 Visit www.allstaradjusting.com
📍 Serving all of Florida and Georgia

Sources:
AllStar Adjusting Homepage
Public Adjuster Resources
Claim Results
Loss Draft Department Directory
Types of Claims
Florida OPPAGA Report on Public Adjusters

RECENT
ARTICLES

Public adjuster analyzing paperwork in an office, illustrating confidence and expertise in navigating insurance claims

How Public Adjusters Maximize Insurance Claims: Expert Guide + Real Case Studies

Public Adjuster vs Insurance Company Adjuster

5 Hidden Tactics Insurance Adjusters Use (And How Homeowners Can Fight Back)

Florida Homeowners Insurance Changes

Public Adjuster for the Disabled

Sybilette

02:06 12 Nov 25

I was honored to have been introduced and referred to Allan, he as a result assisted me during my insurance claim process it was indeed a pleasure. Very professional company, hands on & knowledgeable in all the area of thier expertise. Allstar Public Adjuster made me feel comfortable knowing they always had my best interest at heart and followed through to the end to make sure I was satisfied with the end result.

Зоряна Шишлик

23:04 10 Nov 25

If we could give a higher rating, we would. We were very pleased with the work they did. Everything was done very professionally, correctly, and without any stress for us. This was our first experience, and if we ever need the help of an adjuster again, we will only contact them. Thank you very much.

Edell Hines

12:03 06 Jun 25

Florida Allstar Public Adjusters Inc is absolutely awesome, #1 in my book!Alan was very helpful and patient, he provided me with the best service and recommendations.I commend you for your professionalism and making my experience hassle free, thank you for a job well done!

Aída Zuluaga

15:37 19 Mar 25

Working with Mr. Himmel was a great experience, he was always in contact with us and the insurance company; he walked us through the process and was in our side all the time. He fought for us, so the insurance provides what was required by the law. We highly recommend him.

Lisa Stolzenberg

22:55 19 Feb 25

Florida All Star Public Adjusters Inc is absolutely amazing! Alan is super knowledgeable, professional, and truly cares about getting their clients the best possible outcome. He takes the stress out of dealing with insurance claims and makes the whole process so much easier. From start to finish, he's communicative, reliable, and fights to make sure you get what you’re owed. If you need a public adjuster who actually has your back, Alan is guy to call. Highly recommend!

Debbie Hay

14:42 26 Jun 24

Highly recommend. Communicates consistently and clearly. On time for appointments and answers all questions. Above all Alan displays a high level of integrity and cares about his clients.

Tania Fernandez

16:52 25 Jun 24

When my husband and I found ourselves in a difficult situation, Alan can the day of and provided us with very helpful information. He was knowledgeable and provided us with the next steps needed. Although our situation did not require his immediate help we’ll definitely be contacting him in the future. Thanks a bunch!

Lauren Shirosky

19:46 23 Apr 24

During a difficult time. Alan was there to help my family and I. We couldn’t of made it through it with out his services. He is very professional, knowledgeable and cares for those who he assists. Great company! 5 plus 5 stars. Definitely a 10!

Robert Scholtz

16:41 22 Apr 24

We appreciate Alans hard work after UPC closed up and ran away. Despite all the odds he persevered and fought for us even when we ready to give up. It's heartening to know there are men like him in the world.

Belinda Rhanes

23:16 09 Apr 24

We contacted Alan in reference to concerns we had with our claim we had open with our insurance desk examiner. We explained the situation and he gave us excellent instructions on how to handle the situation and ensured that he would be available if needed. He was patient during our telephone conversation and did not charge us.

goom bash

01:14 11 Oct 23

Went waaaay above and beyond any duty to share excellent tips and advice on how to maximize my "total loss" stolen and damaged vehicle

Merdee Matteo

01:34 06 Aug 23

I had a wonderful experience with my Public Adjuster, Alan. Alan is extremely knowledgeable about the insurance industry. When I found Alan on my internet search, I was having a hard time with the insurance company low balling the claim. When we met, Alan inspected the property and the damage caused by a leak and told me he would get me a good settlement. I didn’t think it was possible based on my dealings with the insurance company in the past, but Alan came through for me. Alan is very professional and a caring individual. He not only helped me, but the first time I met him he had to take a call from another client and apologized and excused himself. When he finished his call, which was quick, he apologized again. This showed me that he cared about his clients and the service that he provides and the work that he does. I signed on with him instantly and had a wonderful professional experience with him. He responded to all my calls and text messages and kept me informed about the process and what was going on with the claim. He is a good person and we are blessed to have him in an industry that only cares about their bottom line. I would recommend him to anyone and all of my family members. Thank you so much Alan for all your hard work. I truly appreciate you. Hopefully, I won’t have any other issues with my insurance company, but if I do, I know who to call. All the best, Marcia.

Harriet Upshaw

15:44 24 Jul 23

Very valuable service!!! Very professional and quality service

vivian lam-casimiro

23:11 12 Jul 23

Alan is a wealth of knowledge. He was so thorough and detailed through the whole process. I would highly recommend Alan. Hire him and your claim will definitely get paid to the fullest.

Angel Harris

02:45 23 Dec 22

I had no idea what I was doing. This company did all the work and got my claim handled. If needed in the future I will be calling them.

SHAIN H

18:32 15 Aug 22

Alan made the whole process easy to understand and took every call. I would highly recommend Florida All star public adjusting

Roosevelt

11:25 02 Aug 22

Working with Florida Allstar Public Adjusting was a pleasure. They have proven to be greatly knowledgeable during my claim process. Their experience is telling when interacting with them leading to a more than satisfactory insurance settlement.

Ernesto Cortes

18:38 20 Jul 22

Florida Allstar Public Adjusting was amazing to work with. From the beginning Alan made the process simple. There were some road blocks along the way as these things go but with hard work and perseverance he got it done. When it comes to dealing with insurance companies you will be lucky to have Florida All Star Public Insurance and Alan on your side. Ernesto Cortes/ Deerfield Beach, Florida

Ronald Manuel

15:46 28 Jun 22

Excellent and professional a job well done no do overs completed on first attempt at filing. VERY FAST EFFICIENT received insurance funds fast due to Alan's complete pictures and description of damages THANK YOU FOR A PROFESSIONAL JOB WELL DONE USMC RETIRED

Jay K

03:55 24 Mar 22

Alan was a great resource when I needed help to file a claim for damages that occurred in my house. I had no idea the tedious tasks that would be involved when dealing with property damage claims. Alan took care of everything, from estimating the cost of repairs to finding an appropriate legal defense team to help fight for my rights as a property owner. I would definitely recommend Florida Allstar Public Adjusting when dealing with property loss issues.

Steven Huynh

01:32 08 Dec 21

Very good very good very good thankyou for enything

Charlotte Wright

04:04 06 Dec 21

Alan was extremely helpful and informative! He made sure I got a fair payout from my insurance company for damages received during hurricane Sally! I would highly recommend reaching out to him with any of your adjuster needs!

Ligia Herrera

23:04 01 Dec 21

It was great service,Alan was very paciente and profesional

Lunel Iland

10:26 10 Sep 21

Dealing with insurance companies is not an easy task. Especially as first home buyers they can take advantage of you. My adjuster Allen went above and beyond to assure I can rest easy knowing that all would be handle. He fought real hard till the insurance company finally paid what they should have. The process is not an over night process, but as long as you work along side your adjuster, it make it easier and it will help the process. Overall I highly recommend Florida Allstars Public Adjuster a 100%. Good work Mr. Allen and thank you.

Hazel U

00:54 03 Aug 21

This is the first time I’ve ever had to deal with my home insurance company (water damage). I am thankful I chose to use Fl Allstar Public Adjusting to help handle this issue.The Adjuster assigned to my case (Alan Himmel) was wonderful! He was very knowledgeable, extremely patient & thorough when going through the findings & especially when dealing with the insurance company.With his help I received a fair claim that will allow me to repair, and re-do, my bathroom.I would never have had the patience , or knowledge to go at this alone…And that’s what the insurance companies are banking on. Highly recommend using them!

Shobha Khambhati

15:44 15 Jan 21

Alan at Allstar Adjusting exceeded ourexpectation from beginning to end.He always kept in communication with usand answered all our questions. We trusthis knowledge and judgement and we sat backwhile he did our appraisal and he got us everything.

David Gray

22:47 07 Jan 21

Florida Allstar Public Adjusting, Inc. helped me to get the settlement that I deserved from my Insurance company. My house was damage by a Cat-5 hurricane in Panama City, Florida. Hiring a professional from Allstar Public Adjusting made all the different in getting a payout from my Insurance Company and getting my house repaired. Allan, my adjuster was very professional in the assessment of the damage to my property. He was always available to answer questions and would show up to discuss in person any concerns. I am very pleased to say that I have the monetary amount I need to complete the repairs to my home. I’m in a good place because of Alan for Florida Allstar Public Adjusting, Inc. If you need help call Allstar Public Adjusting and you will not be disappointed. Don’t panic! Call Alan at Allstar Public Adjusting to get your home repaired

Ebbro PH

14:02 26 Oct 20

This is an amazing!

Joseph ricky Jean-baptiste

16:18 21 May 20

Great experience. Was scared because never went through that process before but made things so much easier and transparent

Kathryn McCroan

16:16 18 May 20

Alan was very helpful in getting our insurance company to pay us. The insurance company sent us a small check after Hurricane Michael that was not nearly enough to cover all our damages. Once Alan became involved, a settlement was reached and all our repairs have been made. Alan kept in touch with us through the whole process and we certainly couldn’t have done it without him. I highly recommend him and his company. He is great at what he does and we are very satisfied. So if you need his help, contact his company. You won’t be sorry.Kathryn & Kenneth Pittman

Taneille Robinson

18:04 19 Apr 20

Claim details and communication were on point. Great experience

Grady Dalton

23:35 13 Apr 20

Thanks to Alan doing an amazing job with our insurance company we was able to get additional money to do the needed repairs on our home after hurican Michael.He did all foot work for us n kept us in the loop. He was available to talk with us n answer all our questions.Thank you so much from the Dalton's

Lew Glinton

23:23 08 Dec 19

We submitted a claim to Citizen Property Insurance Corporation, knowing that they were very difficult to deal with, we hired Florida All Star Public Adjusting, Inc. to assist us. Dr. Alan was with us every step of the way, kept us aware of his correspondence with the insurance company. Dr. Alan is professional, reliable, and fights for his customers. 51 days after filing our claim, Florida All Star Adjusting, Inc. presented us a check for the full amount of our coverage.Louise & Lew GMiramar Fla.

Ingrid Moss

14:41 24 Nov 19

I had the pleasure of working with Alan on a claim that literally has taken over a year to resolve with my homeowner's insurance. Alan and his team of professional colleagues took the time to explain the claim's process and kept me updated throughout the entire time. I called Alan on a Friday after 5 PM he was at my home within a couple of hours with resources and knowledge on how to proceed with the insurance company. I will definitely work with Alan in the future and highly recommend Florida Allstar Public Adjusting, Inc.

Carolyn Gatlin

19:07 14 Nov 19

I would like to thank Alan for all that he has done for me and my father. He came in and handled the claim for us because we didn't know what to do. He took all the stress and worries off us he did a outstanding job i would recommend him to anyone thank again Alan for all your hard work and time and support. You are the greatest.

Steven Silverberg

17:51 02 Nov 19

I met with Shawn and he is an amazing public adjuster. I highly recommend him. The knowledge, care, and passion he has for his job directly translates to his clients. He is always available and wants the best for his clients. A definite top choice if you need a public adjuster.

Helene Rubin

23:41 20 Aug 19

This is our second time using Alan. He goes above and beyond from beginning to end. Rest assured he is doing his very best for you. He makes the process as painless as possible.

Deborah Comstock

22:45 20 Apr 19

After Hurricane Michael I was confused on what the next step was because my insurance company gave me no advice. They told me that an adjuster would be coming out to see us. I went to my neighbor next door and I met Dr. Alan Himmel a Public Adjuster and Chiropractor. At that time I had my work car and it had the name of the company I worked for which is also a Chiropractor. We made small talk about the Chiropractic business but then I asked a couple of questions about my home. Alan took the time to answer them even though he was not my public adjuster. This happened a couple times when I would see him at the neighbor’s house I would ask him questions and he always answered them and never did he try to push his public adjusting business on me. He gave me advice on getting a restoration company to come in and check for water and mold. I contacted the restoration company and even though he still was not my public adjuster he came to my home while they were here to check up on things and make sure everything was working out. Then I got a call from my insurance company and they told me I was getting two checks and the amount I was getting was not even enough to put a roof on my house. Well, I had a lot more damage than my roof so I decided to call Alan and ask him what I should do. He asked me if I had my checks yet and I told him they were being mailed to me. He told me to wait till I got my checks then deposit them and that if I wanted him to help me to get the money I needed to fix my house he would be happy to help. He waited until I got my initial settlement before having me sign with him which means he did not get any of that part of the settlement. I signed on with him and he came to my home and spent several hours and took over 100 pictures. He spent many hours working my claim and anytime we found something new he added it in. I never waited more than a day to hear from him if I needed an answer about something or to talk to him, most of the time it was the same day. He even answered me at midnight once because he was up. He finalized my estimate and when they decided to send out another field adjuster to look over everything that was in his estimate he flew up here to meet the adjuster. I thought that was awesome. It took a couple of months from beginning to end for him to negotiate everything but he was able to get me everything I needed to fix my home. Alan is very professional, thorough and he tries to perfect his claims for his clients. He cares very much about every client he signs up. He is very calm and knows how to ensure you that he is working hard and will get you what you need. He is very faithful to his clients.

Melissa Medina

00:26 07 Sep 18

Alan Himmel literally saved our home. I can never say thank you enough to him. He went more than above and beyond to help us with our troublesome claim. My family and I are eternally greatful for his hard work. This company is honest, trustworthy and committed to you 100%. Alan went through alot with our claim our insurance safepoint is an absolute nightmare. They changed claim managers three times and would always give him the run around. Nevertheless he persisted and pushed. Thanks to him today we have a new roof on our home. I 100% recommend this company to anyone needing an adjuster.

Emilo Petit

18:32 19 Aug 18

This company is amazing, and very professional. I am extremely satisfied with my ending results. I will recommend to all my friends and family.

Sabrina M

23:23 04 Aug 18

Very professional and went above and beyond in taking care of my claim. Dealing with the insurance company was stressful before hiring Allstar Adjusting. We started working with Allstar Adjusting and our claim was handled quickly and we are excited to begin our repairs. We would recommend them to anyone that is looking for assistance with their claim.

dan reilly

02:16 27 Dec 17

Went above and beyond on my first ever home insurance claim. He made sure I had a daily update and always answered my calls and texts. I wouldn’t recommend anyone else

CALL 24/7: 954-659-8333

How Public Adjusters Maximize Insurance Claims: Expert Guide + Real Case Studies

Navigating Insurance Claims with Confidence: A Public Adjuster’s Guide to Maximizing Your Settlement

Introduction: Why Public Adjusters Matter More Than Ever

What Is a Public Adjuster?

Common Types of Claims We Handle

Real Case Study: From Denial to $55,000 Payout

Interview: Insights from a Senior Public Adjuster