Category: Public Adjuster

Just like hiring an Accountant for an audit: Why Policyholders Turn to AJR Public Adjusters for their Property Insurance Claims

Many neighbors don’t realize that insurance company adjusters work for the insurance company—not for you.

That’s where public adjusters come in. We work for the policyholder, not the insurer.

Just like you’d hire an accountant to handle an audit, you can hire a public adjuster to handle your insurance claim. It’s a professional service you can pay for to have someone represent your interests in all claim negotiations.

Our clients often tell us they didn’t know this option existed until after struggling through the process on their own. We’re proud to share four new 5-star reviews from clients who did:

“AJR Public Adjusters are awesome and I would highly recommend them to anyone dealing with a large insurance claim.”

“Their expertise and professional knowledge were invaluable as they took the lead with my insurance company and guided me through the complexities.”

We genuinely appreciate clients who take the time to share their experience—it helps others feel confident knowing they’ll receive professional, honest, and knowledgeable help with their claim.

If you’re dealing with property damage anywhere in Arizona, call AJR Public Adjusters at 602-795-5227. You don’t have to handle it alone.

AJR: Phoenix’s Top Public Adjuster for Monsoon Damage Claims

Why AJR Public Adjusters Was Named Phoenix’s Top Public Adjuster—Again

As Arizona enters monsoon season, homeowners and business owners face increased risk of property damage from high winds, heavy rain, and hail. These storms can lead to roof leaks, collapsed ceilings, flooding, and other costly problems—many of which should be covered by insurance. But filing a claim and getting a fair settlement isn’t always straightforward.

That’s where AJR Public Adjusters comes in.

We’re proud to share that AJR has once again been named the Top Public Adjuster in Phoenix by Yelp. This recognition is based on consistent five-star reviews from real clients who’ve trusted us to handle complex property claims and guide them through the insurance process.

What Sets AJR Apart

  • Over 37 Years of Experience
    Bruce Horowitz brings decades of hands-on experience in public adjusting. We’ve handled thousands of claims and understand the ins and outs of insurance policies, coverage limits, and negotiation strategies.
  • We Work for You—Not the Insurance Company
    As licensed public adjusters, we only represent policyholders. Our job is to protect your interests, document the full scope of damage, and push for the maximum settlement under your policy.
  • Clear Communication
    One of the most common complaints we hear from people before they call us is that they felt left in the dark. At AJR, we believe in clear and honest updates. You’ll always know where your claim stands.
  • Local Expertise
    Monsoon-related damage is unique to this region. We live and work in Arizona, so we understand how these storms affect homes and businesses here—and how insurance carriers respond to them.
  • Free Policy & Damage Reviews
    Unsure if you have a claim? We review your full insurance policy, estimates, and damage photos at no cost. If we believe we can help, we’ll explain the next steps clearly.

If your property is damaged this monsoon season and you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Many policyholders come to us after struggling with denied or underpaid claims. At AJR, we take the pressure off and help you get what you’re owed.

Need help? Contact us today at 602-795-5227 or submit your documents for a complimentary review. We’re here to help you get through this—and come out stronger.

Why Policyholders Need Protection: Key Takeaways from the Senate Hearing on Insurance Claim Practices

Last week’s hearing on Capitol Hill, titled “Examining the Insurance Industry’s Claims Practices Following Recent Natural Disasters,” highlighted a serious issue. An issue that is finally receiving the long-overdue attention it deserves and affects homeowners nationwide. As storms and disasters become more frequent and severe, too many policyholders find themselves underpaid. They experience delays or are denied by their insurance carriers. This happens when they need help the most.

The public deserves better. Transparency, accountability, and fair treatment should not be optional. Policyholders have the right from the very beginning to seek guidance and protection by hiring a licensed public adjuster.

That’s exactly why AJR Public Adjusters exists. We work solely for the insured—not the insurance company. Our goal is to level the playing field. We want to ensure the claim process is clear and fair. We also aim to help our clients avoid the all-too-common frustrations highlighted during this hearing.

If you’re dealing with property damage or simply want to understand your rights, we’re here to help. We will help you every step of the way.

Click on the link above to access the hearing for anyone who would like to learn more.

#InsuranceClaims #PublicAdjuster #NaturalDisasterRecovery #PolicyholderRights #TransparencyMatters #AJRPublicAdjusters #ArizonaBusiness #ClientAdvocacy #StormDamage #FairClaimsProcess

Get Professional Insurance Claim Help Before It’s Too Late

Example Scenario:

The Story of the Unseen Pitfalls:

It was a stormy night when Sarah’s home suffered significant damage. The winds were fierce; by morning, part of her roof had collapsed, her living room flooded, and several of her belongings were ruined. Devastated, she immediately called her insurance company to start the claims process. Confident that the process would be straightforward — after all, she’d paid her premiums for years, and the policy was supposed to cover this kind of damage — Sarah didn’t hesitate to make the call.

However, Sarah didn’t know that this initial contact with the insurance company was a critical moment in the claims process. She should have contacted the local NAPIA firm AJR Public Adjusters immediately before contacting her insurance company to ensure her interests were fully represented. By contacting the licensed local Arizona AJR Public Adjusters immediately, Sarah could have ensured that her damages were accurately documented, the full scope of loss was assessed, and the insurance company wouldn’t undervalue her claim.

The insurance company promptly sent an adjuster to assess the situation. Sarah explained everything: the roof, the water damage, and the items she’d lost. The adjuster seemed sympathetic, but his appraisal was quick and far less generous than Sarah expected. When the check arrived, it barely covered the cost of repairs, let alone replacing her valuable belongings or addressing the full extent of the damage.

Feeling frustrated but not knowing what else to do, Sarah accepted the settlement and started the repairs herself. However, as she began to fix the roof, she noticed more issues—structural damage that the insurance adjuster had missed. It quickly became apparent that she couldn’t restore her home to its previous condition without spending more than the settlement had provided.

A few months later, Sarah spoke to a friend, Jake, who had gone through a similar experience. He mentioned how he’d hired a public adjuster when his home was damaged in a fire. Jake explained that the public adjuster had fought for a fair claim, found hidden damages, and ultimately helped him secure a settlement covering all his repairs and losses.

It was then that Sarah realized the mistake she had made. By not hiring a licensed public adjuster right away, she had allowed the insurance company’s adjuster — who worked for them, not her — to determine what was fair. She hadn’t known her rights or the full extent of the damages. A public adjuster could have advocated for her and ensured the damage was thoroughly documented and assessed.

A Lesson That Applies to Many AJR Clients:

While Sarah is a fictional example, this story reflects a common experience shared by many of the clients AJR Public Adjusters works with. Often, homeowners find themselves in similar situations — facing low insurance payouts, missing damages, and mounting stress after a disaster. AJR Public Adjusters understands Sarah’s pitfalls and is here to help. As a BBB A+ rated company, AJR is committed to advocating for clients like Sarah, ensuring that every hidden damage is uncovered and that settlements genuinely reflect the extent of the losses.

An Example Demonstrating What Sarah Learned:

  1. Insurance Adjusters Work for the Company, Not You: Sarah didn’t fully understand the role of the insurance adjuster until after the fact. While the adjuster appeared kind and professional, his primary responsibility was to protect the insurance company’s bottom line, not her interests. A public adjuster works for you, ensuring your damages are fully assessed and you receive a fair settlement.
  2. Hidden Damages Matter: The insurance adjuster didn’t notice specific structural damage Sarah discovered. AJR Public Adjusters have the expertise to identify hidden damages that might not be obvious at first glance, ensuring that all the damages are accounted for.
  3. You Have the Right to Negotiate: Sarah didn’t know that she could challenge the initial claim settlement. Public adjusters like AJR are skilled negotiators who know the insurance industry’s ins and outs. They can leverage their knowledge to negotiate a higher settlement if the first offer is unfair.
  4. Time and Stress Are Valuable: Handling the insurance claim independently added stress and frustration to a problematic situation. By hiring AJR Public Adjusters immediately after the loss, Sarah would have been able to focus on her recovery, knowing that a professional was handling the complicated insurance process for her.

The Takeaway for Others:

If you’re ever faced with a significant insurance claim, especially one involving extensive damage, contact AJR Public Adjusters immediately. At the same time, it might feel like an extra expense upfront; their expertise and advocacy can save you money in the long run. They ensure that the full scope of your damages is recognized and that the settlement is fair — helping you avoid the mistakes that can lead to further financial strain and frustration.

While not about an actual AJR client, this story applies to many homeowners facing the same challenges. AJR Public Adjusters has helped countless clients like Sarah who have faced underpaid claims or overlooked damages. If you don’t fully understand your policy or if your damages are significant, don’t hesitate to seek out the help of AJR Public Adjusters. Contact them immediately to ensure you’re getting the fair compensation you deserve.

AJR Public Adjusters is a trusted partner in navigating the complexities of insurance claims. Their A+ Better Business Bureau rating shows their dedication to outstanding service and client advocacy. If you find yourself in a similar situation, don’t face it alone — contact AJR Public Adjusters immediately to help you recover the compensation you’re entitled to.

Why Hire a Public Adjuster for Your Insurance Claims

Unlock the Full Potential of Your Insurance Claim – Hire a Public Adjuster Today

Dealing with insurance claims can feel like an uphill battle, especially when you’re going up against the adjusters who work for the insurance company. They have one job – to minimize what they pay out. But you deserve more than just the bare minimum.

As a local licensed public adjuster on your side, we at AJR Public Adjusters work solely for YOU. We fight to ensure that every detail of your claim is thoroughly reviewed and every possible dollar you’re entitled to is recovered. With our expertise, we level the playing field so you’re not left at a disadvantage.

Without the right advocate, you may be leaving money on the table – money that could make all the difference in rebuilding your home or business. Don’t settle for less. Your future, your peace of mind, and your financial recovery are too important to risk.

Act now and ensure you’re getting the compensation you truly deserve. Contact AJR today and let’s make sure you get what you’ve paid for!

Navigating Arizona Insurance Claims: AJR Public Adjuster’s Step-by-Step Guide

Property insurance claims can be tricky, and by understanding the common mistakes people make in Arizona, AJR Public Adjusters can help you navigate the process more effectively.

Why hire AJR Public Adjusters for property insurance claims?

Following the steps below will help you bypass common mistakes when filing insurance claims.

1. Initial Contact with AJR Public Adjusters

  • Action: Reach out to AJR Public Adjusters (602) 795-5227 immediately after the damage occurs.
  • Solution: Contact AJR to schedule a consultation. We will review your policy and help you understand your coverages. We will guide you through the entire claims process, explaining the specifics of what you are entitled to under your insurance policy.

2. Free Consultation and Policy Review

  • Action: Review your property insurance policy with an AJR Public Adjuster.
  • Solution: AJR will examine your policy to confirm that your coverage matches the damage incurred. This step ensures you’re claiming for the right damages (e.g., water, fire, storm damage) and not missing important coverages.

3. Documenting the Damage

  • Action: Allow AJR Public Adjusters to document the damage on your property.
  • Solution: AJR will send a licensed adjuster to your property to thoroughly document the damage. We will bring out an estimator to assess damages and take photos, videos, and detailed notes to establish the full extent of the loss, which will be crucial for maximizing your claim. This documentation will often be much more thorough than you might do alone.

4. Estimate of Loss

  • Action: AJR will work with contractors and experts to get an accurate estimate of the cost to repair the damage.
  • Solution: AJR Public Adjusters will hire licensed contractors and specialists to provide detailed estimates of repair or replacement costs. This estimate will form the foundation of your claim. AJR’s expertise ensures that the estimate is fair and comprehensive, covering all necessary repairs and replacements.

5. Filing the Claim

  • Action: AJR will submit the claim on your behalf after you have approved the estimate created.
  • Solution: AJR Public Adjusters will take care of submitting your claim to the Insurance Company and ensure that all required forms and documentation are appropriately filed. We will also ensure that the claim is filed promptly, in line with any time limits stated in your policy.

6. Insurance Company Interaction

  • Action: Allow AJR to communicate directly with your insurance company.
  • Solution: AJR will handle all communication with your insurance company, relieving you of dealing with adjusters, claims representatives, or disputes. We will ensure that your insurer does not undervalue your claim or delay processing, and we will negotiate for the best settlement possible.

7. Insurance Adjuster’s Inspection

  • Action: Coordinate with AJR so the insurance company’s adjuster can inspect your property.
  • Solution: AJR will accompany the insurance company’s adjuster during their inspections of your property. We will ensure the adjuster conducts a thorough evaluation and that no damage is overlooked. AJR will also advocate for your interests if the insurance company’s adjuster misses anything or undervalues the damage.

8. Review Settlement Offer

  • Action: Review the insurance company’s settlement offer with AJR.
  • Solution: Once the insurance company provides a settlement offer, AJR will thoroughly review it. We will assess whether the settlement is fair and based on a full damage assessment

9. Negotiating the Settlement

  • Action: If necessary, AJR will negotiate with your insurance company.
  • Solution: If the initial offer is unsatisfactory, AJR will utilize our 35+ years of experience and continue negotiating with your insurance company to increase the payout. This could involve presenting additional evidence and re-negotiating the repair estimates.

10. Appealing the Decision (if needed)

  • Action: If you disagree with the insurance company’s final decision, AJR will guide you through the appeals process.
  • Solution: If your claim is denied or the settlement is still too low, AJR Public Adjusters will inform you of your options, which begin with an appraisal ( which is explained in your policy), which is your duty before ever filing a lawsuit.  

11. Final Settlement and Repair

  • Action: Accept the settlement and proceed with repairs.
  • Solution: Once AJR has secured a fair settlement, you will receive the payout and can move forward with repairs. AJR will continue assisting you throughout the repair process to ensure the settlement covers all necessary repairs and replacements.

12. Continued Support (if needed)

  • Action: Reach out to AJR for any further assistance after settlement.
  • Solution: Even after the claim is settled, you can continue to rely on AJR to advocate for you.

Key Benefits of Using AJR Public Adjusters:

  • Expert Negotiators: AJR has the knowledge and experience (35+ years) to ensure you get the most money possible for your claim.
  • No Upfront Cost: AJR works on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid a percentage of the settlement when the insurance company issues checks. This makes our services affordable and aligned with your best interests.
  • Less Stress for You: With AJR handling all the paperwork, negotiations, and communication with the insurance company, you can focus on recovering from the loss without worrying about the claims submission process.
  • Maximized Payout: AJR’s goal is to ensure you get the maximum payout possible based on your policy, which often results in higher compensation than if you handled the claim alone.

By utilizing AJR Public Adjusters as your advocate, you’re ensuring that you have a professional on your side who will work hard to get you a fair settlement for your property insurance claim.

Top 5 Mistakes When Filing a Homeowner or Business Insurance Claim and How to Avoid Them

Filing a claim alone doesn’t guarantee you will receive a fair settlement. Hiring a public adjuster puts you on the same playing field as the insurance adjuster. Hiring a local licensed public adjuster, helps maximize your settlement by advocating for you and providing the insurance company with the proper values of your claim based on the coverage you’ve paid for in your policy.

Here are the top five mistakes insureds often make when filing a property insurance claim and how hiring a public adjuster can help prevent these issues:

1. Not Documenting the Damage Properly

Mistake: One of the most common mistakes is failing to take clear photos or videos of the damage or loss. Without proper documentation, it can be challenging to prove the extent of the damage to the insurance company.

Solution: A public adjuster can be incredibly helpful in providing proper documentation. They specialize in assessing and documenting damage thoroughly and accurately, ensuring that no aspect of your loss goes unnoticed. They are trained to capture the necessary photos, videos, and other forms of evidence in a way that aligns with the insurance company’s requirements.

Additionally, public adjusters deeply understand the policies and types of documentation that insurers need to properly evaluate a claim, which can help you avoid the common mistake of missing key details. Their expertise can also help you present your case more effectively, especially if the insurance company challenges the extent of the damage.

By hiring a public adjuster, you benefit from a professional who will advocate on your behalf, ensuring that all damages are documented correctly and that your claim is as accurate and complete as possible. This can significantly improve the chances of maximizing the settlement from your insurance provider.

2. Waiting Too Long to File the Claim

Mistake: Delaying the filing of a claim can lead to complications. Many insurance policies have strict time limits for reporting claims, and waiting too long may result in a denial.

Solution: A public adjuster is essential when it comes to navigating the strict time limits for filing insurance claims. Insurance policies often have specific deadlines for reporting damage, and missing these deadlines can result in claim denials, leaving you without the support you need. Public adjusters are experts in understanding these timelines and can ensure that your claim is filed promptly and within the required period.

In addition, public adjusters expedite the claims process by managing the paperwork, coordinating inspections, and ensuring that all necessary information is submitted to the insurance company promptly. They can also help you avoid mistakes that might cause unnecessary delays, such as incomplete documentation or missed details.

By working with a public adjuster, you gain an advocate who is knowledgeable about the claims process and can act quickly to meet critical deadlines, reducing the risk of complications and improving the likelihood of a successful claim.

3. Not Reviewing Your Insurance Policy

Mistake: Failing to fully understand your policy’s coverage, exclusions, and limits can result in unpleasant surprises. You may find that certain types of damage aren’t covered or that your deductible is higher than expected.

Solution: A public adjuster is crucial in helping you fully understand your policy’s coverage, exclusions, and limits. Many homeowners aren’t aware of all the fine print in their policies, and a public adjuster can help clarify what is and isn’t covered. They are experts in reviewing complex insurance language and can help you understand your policy to ensure you know the coverage available.

In cases where certain damages may not be covered or where you may have a higher deductible than anticipated, a public adjuster can help explain these details before you file your claim. They also know how to present your case in a way that maximizes your chances of receiving compensation for damages that fall within your policy’s coverage, potentially identifying areas where the insurance company might overlook or undervalue your claim.

Ultimately, working with a public adjuster ensures that you don’t encounter unexpected surprises, and it gives you a clearer understanding of what your policy entails, making sure you’re properly prepared when filing your claim. Their expertise in policy review and claim negotiation can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure a fair payout based on your coverage.

4. Making Unnecessary Repairs Before the Adjuster Inspects

Mistake: Many homeowners make temporary repairs or clean up the damage before the insurance adjuster arrives. While it’s important to prevent further damage, making permanent repairs too soon can lead to complications in the claims process.

Solution: A public adjuster is critical in situations where temporary repairs are made before the insurance adjuster arrives. While it’s important to stop further damage from occurring, a public adjuster can help guide you on what actions are necessary and what should be postponed to avoid compromising your claim. They are experts at determining what repairs are acceptable in the interim and what should wait until the adjuster has assessed the full extent of the damage.

Public adjusters understand how the insurance company views temporary and permanent repairs. They can advise you on how to properly document any repairs made to prevent complications, such as ensuring that the damage is still visible for proper evaluation. If permanent repairs are made prematurely, it could lead to a dispute over the extent of the damage or impact the valuation of your claim.

Having a public adjuster involved ensures that your actions align with the claims process, helping to avoid mistakes that could delay or reduce your settlement. They can also ensure that your repairs are appropriately documented, and the insurance company is aware of the steps you’ve taken to mitigate further damage without undermining the overall claim.

5. Overestimating or Underestimating the Damage

Mistake: Some homeowners either overestimate or underestimate the damage to their property, which can affect the claim process. Overstating the damage can result in the claim being flagged for investigation while underestimating it could leave you underinsured.

Solution: A public adjuster is essential in helping you avoid the pitfalls of overestimating or underestimating the damage to your property. Estimating the damage accurately is crucial for a successful claim, as both overstatements and understatements can lead to complications.

Overstating the damage can raise red flags with your insurance company, possibly resulting in delays or even an investigation into the claim. On the other hand, underestimating the damage can leave you underinsured, leading to a payout that may not fully cover the cost of repairs or replacement.

A public adjuster has the expertise to assess the damage thoroughly and accurately, ensuring that all aspects of the loss are documented properly. They use their knowledge of the claims process to provide an objective, professional evaluation of the damage, which helps you avoid overestimating or underestimating the situation.

By hiring a public adjuster, you ensure that the damage is valued correctly, giving you the best chance for a fair and adequate settlement from your insurance provider. Their expertise can help balance the fine line between providing an accurate assessment and avoiding any miscalculations that could hinder your claim.

In conclusion, filing an insurance claim can be a complex process, and avoiding common mistakes is crucial to ensuring your claim is handled efficiently and fairly. Whether failing to document the damage properly, missing filing deadlines, misunderstanding your policy, making premature repairs, or inaccurately estimating the damage, each of these pitfalls can delay or diminish your settlement.

Hiring a public adjuster to represent your interests can be an invaluable step in navigating this process. With their expertise, they can help ensure proper documentation, adhere to critical timelines, interpret your policy correctly, guide repairs, and accurately assess the damage.accompanying the claims process.

By enlisting the help of an A+ rated Better Business Bureau local Arizona Public Adjuster, you gain a professional who is well-versed in the complexities of insurance claims. They will guide you through each step of the process, helping you avoid costly mistakes and ensuring that your claim is handled accurately. With AJR Public Adjuster expertise, you can secure a fair settlement based on the coverage you’ve paid for, providing you with the best possible outcome for your loss.