Red Flags to Watch for When Hiring a Public Adjuster in Arizona

Arizona policyholders should know the warning signs before hiring a public adjuster. Learn what to look for, which reviews matter, and how to protect your claim.

If you are a policyholder dealing with a property insurance claim in Arizona, hiring the right public adjuster matters. This professional represents you, not the insurance company. Knowing what red flags to watch for can help you avoid costly mistakes and delays.

Lack of transparency about who handles your insurance claim

In Arizona, public adjusters must be licensed by the Arizona Department of Insurance. A reputable Arizona public adjuster will clearly identify who owns the firm and who will personally handle your claim.

A major red flag is a website with no About page or no information about the adjusters working on claims. If you cannot find names, experience, or licensing details, proceed with caution. Policyholders should always know who is negotiating their property damage claim.

No independent reviews or reviews only on the company website

Another warning sign is a lack of third party reviews.

Testimonials posted only on a company’s website cannot be independently verified. When researching an Arizona public adjuster, look for reviews on established platforms that require accountability and consumer verification.

Why review platforms matter when choosing a public adjuster

Where reviews appear is just as important as what they say.

The Better Business Bureau is one of the most reliable platforms for evaluating a public adjuster. BBB reviews are based on real consumer interactions. Complaints are verified, responses are tracked, and patterns over time are visible. These reviews reflect actual policyholders and real insurance claims.

Policyholders should also know that BBB reviews are only publicly visible for three years. A firm with a long history in Arizona may not show decades of reviews even though they have handled claims for many years. In these cases, a consistent BBB rating and long standing accreditation are strong indicators of credibility.

Platforms like Google or Yelp can still provide insight, but they have limitations. Anyone can leave a review on those platforms, even without being a client or having an actual claim. Some reviews may come from phone calls or brief interactions unrelated to claim handling.

For this reason, policyholders should focus on review quality, detail, and platform credibility rather than star counts alone.

An unusually high number of reviews can be a red flag

Public adjusting is not a high volume business. Insurance claims take time.

In Arizona, wind, hail, fire, and water damage claims often require months of inspections, documentation, and negotiation. A small public adjusting firm cannot realistically manage hundreds of claims at once.

If a firm has an unusually large number of reviews in a short time frame, policyholders should question how that volume is possible.

Generic reviews that lack detail

Not all reviews are equal.

Reviews that simply say “great job” or “good service” offer little value. Strong reviews usually describe how the public adjuster communicated, documented damage, negotiated with the insurance carrier, or stayed involved throughout the claim process. Detailed reviews are far more credible.

Pressure tactics or guaranteed results

Arizona policyholders should be cautious of public adjusters who pressure them to sign immediately or promise guaranteed outcomes. No ethical public adjuster can guarantee a claim result.

A professional Arizona public adjuster will explain the claim process, discuss realistic timelines, and allow policyholders time to make informed decisions.

What policyholders should look for in an Arizona public adjuster

A reputable Arizona public adjusting firm will be transparent, experienced, and accessible. Policyholders should know who is handling their claim, how long the firm has worked in Arizona, and how claims are managed from start to finish.

AJR Public Adjusters follows this approach. Claims are handled directly by experienced, licensed public adjusters, not handed off to unknown staff. AJR has a long established presence in Arizona, a consistent BBB history, and a hands on approach that reflects the complexity of property insurance claims.

Final thoughts for Arizona policyholders

A property insurance claim can have a major financial impact. Take time to research before hiring a public adjuster. Verify licensing, review independent platforms, and ask direct questions.

For Arizona policyholders, experience, transparency, and accountability matter far more than marketing claims or inflated review numbers.

Public Adjusters in Arizona |AJR Public Adjusters | A+ BBB Rated

When disaster strikes, it rarely sends a warning. One day your home or business is safe. The next, a fire, flood, storm, or other loss leaves you with costly damage and more questions than answers. The first call many people make is to their insurance company. But here’s the hard truth: insurance companies are businesses with their own bottom line, and their adjusters work for them — not you.

That’s where a public adjuster comes in. A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents you, the policyholder, throughout the insurance claims process. Instead of relying on the insurance company’s word, you have an experienced advocate working to make sure your damage is fully documented, deadlines are met, and the settlement you receive is fair.

What Does a Public Adjuster Do?

Most homeowners and business owners have never filed a large property claim before. Insurance policies are packed with complex language, strict requirements, and short timelines. Missing a detail can mean losing thousands of dollars.

A public adjuster takes that weight off your shoulders. Here’s how:

  • Policy review: They read and interpret the fine print to determine exactly what your coverage includes.
  • Damage inspection: They carefully document every aspect of your loss — structural damage, contents, and even hidden issues like water intrusion or smoke residue.
  • Claim preparation: They organize evidence, photos, estimates, and reports into a claim package that the insurance company can’t easily deny.
  • Negotiation: They communicate with the insurance company’s adjusters and make sure your claim isn’t undervalued or delayed.
  • Settlement support: They guide you through final payments, ensuring the insurance company follows through.

The result? You don’t have to fight the insurance company alone, and you’re far less likely to miss out on money you’re entitled to.

Why Insurance Companies Don’t Tell You About Public Adjusters

Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers protecting their interests. Their job is to settle claims quickly and at the lowest possible cost. They aren’t going to recommend that you bring in your own professional to review or challenge their decisions.

But Arizona law gives you the right to hire a public insurance adjuster. This is your safeguard against denied or underpaid claims. Public adjusters work only for the policyholder, not the insurance company. Their success is tied to yours: they only get paid if you receive a settlement.

Real-World Scenarios Where a Public Adjuster Helps

Think about some of the common losses Arizona homeowners face:

  • Monsoon storm damage: Heavy winds and rain tear off roofing and cause water leaks inside.
  • Fire damage: Even a small kitchen fire can cause smoke and soot damage throughout the house.
  • Water damage: Burst pipes, appliance leaks, or slab leaks often lead to hidden mold and costly repairs.
  • Hail damage: Roofs, siding, and windows can be compromised, but insurers often try to pay for only “spot repairs.”
  • Theft or vandalism: Personal property and structural damage both need detailed documentation.

In all these cases, an insurance company’s adjuster may try to minimize the payout, but a public adjuster—whether you’re in Phoenix, Scottsdale, or elsewhere in Arizona—ensures every detail is thoroughly documented and accurately valued.

Common Misconceptions About Public Adjusters

“Public adjusters inflate claims.”
Licensed public adjusters are regulated by the Arizona Department of Insurance. Their role is to present legitimate, well-documented claims — not inflate numbers.

“Public adjusters are expensive.”
Public adjusters work on a contingency fee, meaning they only get paid if you receive a settlement. The fee is a percentage of the recovery, and for many policyholders, the increased payout more than covers the cost.

“I can handle my claim myself.”
You can, but most people underestimate the complexity of the process. Deadlines, paperwork, and technical details can derail a claim quickly. Having a professional in your corner greatly reduces that risk.

The AJR Public Adjusters Difference

At AJR Public Adjusters, we’ve spent over 37 years helping policyholders across Arizona get the settlements they deserve. We’ve built our reputation on:

  • Ethics and transparency: We’re proud of our A+ BBB rating and dozens of client testimonials that reflect our commitment.
  • Local experience: We know the challenges Arizona weather brings — monsoons, haboobs, hail, and more.
  • Personal service: When you call AJR, you work directly with Bruce and Stacy, not a junior adjuster or out-of-state firm.
  • Proven results: We’ve recovered millions of dollars for homeowners and business owners who would have otherwise accepted underpaid claims.

Unlike “storm chasers” who flood into Arizona after big weather events, AJR is a local firm with deep community roots. Our goal isn’t a quick payout — it’s to stand by our neighbors when they need help most.

Why Public Adjusting Matters for Everyone

Public adjusting isn’t just for major disasters or complex losses. Even small claims can be underpaid if details are missed. Every policyholder deserves the peace of mind that comes from knowing their claim is being handled correctly.

When you hire a public adjuster, you’re choosing to level the playing field. You’re telling the insurance company that your claim deserves respect and full attention. And you’re reducing your own stress by letting a professional handle the details.

Call to Action

If you’re facing property damage in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, Mesa, Chandler, or anywhere in Arizona, don’t go through the insurance process alone. Call AJR Public Adjusters first.

📞 602-795-5227
🌐 publicadjusteraz.com

We’ll review your situation, explain your options, and show you exactly how we can help. With AJR Public Adjusters on your side, you’ll have confidence knowing your claim is handled ethically, thoroughly, and with your best interests at heart.

Don’t leave money on the table. Contact AJR Public Adjusters today and let us fight for the settlement you deserve.

Get Professional Insurance Claim Help Before It’s Too Late

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.

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.

Maximize Your Insurance Claim with AJR Public Adjusters

AJR Public Adjusters is located in Phoenix, Arizona. This AZ-based firm represents property and business owners. They maximize the recovery from insurance claims.

Here are five key insights about their services:

  1. Extensive Experience and Expertise: With over 35 years in the industry, AJR Public Adjusters brings knowledge in managing various property insurance claims, including those related to fire, water damage, theft, and natural disasters. AJR Public Adjusters
  2. Proven Success in Claim Settlements: Clients have reported significant increases in their claim settlements after engaging AJR’s services. For instance, one client saw their settlement grow from an initial offer of $2,000 to $162,000, highlighting the firm’s effectiveness in advocating for fair compensation. Revdex.com
  3. High Customer Satisfaction Ratings: The firm has garnered positive reviews across multiple platforms. On Birdeye, they hold a 4.6 out of 5 rating based on 51 reviews, reflecting a strong track record of client satisfaction. Birdeye Experience Marketing platform
  4. Recognition for Excellence: In October 2018, AJR Public Adjusters was honored as the #1 Best Public Adjuster in the Phoenix region by Yelp, underscoring their commitment to excellence and client service. AJR Public Adjusters
  5. Comprehensive and Client-Centric Services: AJR offers free consultations and handles all aspects of the claims process, from initial reporting to final settlement. Their proactive approach aims to alleviate the stress for clients, ensuring they receive all entitled benefits without the hassle of direct negotiations with insurance companies. AJR Public Adjusters, LLC

These insights collectively demonstrate AJR Public Adjusters’ dedication to delivering expert, client-focused services that result in favorable client outcomes.

Post-Hurricane Action: Your Guide to Recovery

As Hurricane Milton approaches the Florida Gulf Coast, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and preparedness. Here are some suggestions from our national association NAPIA for what to do after the hurricane arrives.

Please stay safe, heed all warnings from authorities and know that property can always be restored, your health and safety are most important at this time.

When you are able to return to your property, assess the damages and contact a public adjuster in the area to help with recovery from your insurance company.

AJR Public Adjusters does not hold a license in the state of Florida, but we have many connections and may be able to help you locate someone who can assist you.

Recover Quickly from AZ Wildfire | Call A+ BBB Rated Public Adjusters Now

As wildfires continue to develop in AZ this summer, Here is a current map today, June 24, 2024, from azcentral

Keep in mind, engaging a public adjuster during wildfire season can significantly benefit you by providing professional expertise, thorough damage assessment, effective negotiation, and overall support throughout the claims process.

This can lead to a more favorable settlement and help you recover more quickly and fully from the devastating effects of a wildfire

If you need us we are available, call for free consultation,

602-795-5227

AJR Public Adjusters, Local AZ

Better Business Bureau A+ Rated

Trustworthy Insurance Claim Assistance from Better Business Bureau A+ Rated — AJR Public Adjusters

At AJR, we understand that dealing with insurance claims can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to simplify the process and ensure you get the maximum compensation you deserve.

With our A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), you can trust that you’re working with a company that prioritizes integrity, professionalism, and excellence in service.

Videos related to AJR Public Adjusters. Arizona’s best Public Insurance Adjuster, representing policyholders with insurance claims to maximize recovery.

Insurance Companies have licensed adjusters, and policyholders are entitled to the same.

Testimonials and examples of claims we can handle.

AJR Public Adjuster Website

You’ve suffered a property insurance loss, do you know what your insurance policy really covers?

Homeowners purchase home insurance to protect their homes and personal property.  

After an insurance loss is not the time, you want to learn that it will not cover everything you have lost in your claim.

The article attached here explains a little further and discusses some common misunderstandings regarding insurance

https://www.nuco.com/fcs/2021/09/13/understanding-insurance-and-why-it-doesnt-cover-everything/?cmp_share

TakeAways

  1. Insurance is a for-profit industry providing services to those who buy a policy.
  2. Insurance does not pay for maintenance issues.
  3. Insureds sometimes look at cost and don’t look at coverage.
  4. Some agents take the easy way out and tell insureds they are covered for most catastrophic losses without providing details.
  5. Insureds may not understand that their policy is not a replacement cost policy and only covers actual cash value. — this comes into play when settlement is determined.  

This confusion reiterates the need for a licensed Public Adjuster to represent your interests from start to finish with your claim.

We are your A+ rated Better Business Bureau Public Insurance Adjuster here in Phoenix, Arizona, representing clients all over State 48.

AJR Public Adjusters — 602-795-5227 — info@ajrpa.com

Denial of Coverage due to misrepresentation

Many times we are asked the question, What if I forgot to mention something in my application?

According to our research via FC&S, The National Underwriter Company, the application is the standard by which the policy was written.  If you do not disclose completely your situation, this is cause for voiding the policy, and gives the insurance company an out to pay for a loss.

Remember the obligation is on the potential policyholder to disclose all information.  If it is discovered you misled the insurance company, that policy is null and void.  Lesson learned, disclose any and all information when applying for property insurance.

Read Below analysis from the leading investigative agency in the industry, FC&S.

screen-shot-2017-01-19-at-1-39-43-pm-2Any questions always remember you can call AJR, 602-795-5227.

http://www.betterclaimresults.com