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You Got Questions? We Got Answers!

You Got Questions? We Got Answers! Our licensed Florida public adjusters are available to assist you if you have inquiries, questions, or concerns about a property damage insurance claim, are experiencing trouble with the insurance claim procedure, or need help negotiating a fair settlement with your insurance provider.

New Claim Questions

What is a Public Adjuster?

A public adjuster is a licensed insurance professional who represents homeowners and policyholders—not the insurance company—throughout the insurance claim process. Unlike an independent adjuster or company adjuster who works for the insurer, a public adjuster’s only goal is to maximize your claim settlement so you can repair and restore your property properly.

We can handle your claim from start to finish. We:

  • Review your insurance policy.
  • Document your property damages in detail.
  • Negotiate directly with the insurance company.
  • Fight to get you the maximum payout possible.

Because we work on a contingency fee (a percentage of your settlement), our success depends on your success. That means we only get paid if you get paid.

Filing a claim on your own can be stressful and risky. Many homeowners miss critical documentation, deadlines, or post-loss obligations, which can lead to underpaid or denied claims.
With us, you ensure that your claim is:

  • Properly documented and supported.
  • Filed correctly to avoid mistakes.
  • Negotiated fairly for the best settlement.

This saves you time, stress, and money.

No. SRQ is licensed by the state to guide you through the entire claims process and negotiate with your insurance company. Roofers and contractors cannot legally advise you on insurance claims.
That said, contractors play an important role by providing repair estimates and expert reports that support your claim. We have partnerships with roofers and contractors, but remember: a roofer builds roofs, we build your case.

The main difference is:

  • Attorneys can provide legal representation and advice.
  • We cannot give legal advice, but we specialize in managing and negotiating insurance claims for the fastest and highest payout.

If your claim needs litigation, an attorney may step in, but often we can resolve your claim much faster without going through a lengthy legal process.

We charge a percentage of your settlement, not upfront fees.

  • In Florida, the standard fee is 20% of the claim payout.
  • During a state of emergency, Florida law caps fees at 10%.
  • In Texas, our fee is 10%.

This means we are motivated to get you the highest settlement possible.

Insurance companies in Florida have 90 days to make a decision. On average, our claims settle within 3 to 6 months. Complex or denied claims may take longer, especially if an attorney becomes involved.

Your policy number can be found on the Declarations Page of your policy. If you don’t have it, you can request it from your insurance agent or company.

Your claim number is assigned once you file a claim. If you are working with us, we’ll provide it to you. If not, you can call your insurance company’s customer service line to obtain it.

The more documentation, the smoother your claim. Ideally, provide:

  • Your Declarations Page (most important).
  • Any letters, emails, or claim updates from your insurance company.
  • Repair invoices, contractor reports, and proposals.
  • Photos and videos of your property before, during, and after the damage.
  • Adjuster or contractor contact information (if available).

Photos and videos are often the difference between a paid vs. denied claim.

If you don’t have your insurance policy, don’t worry. You can request a full copy directly from your insurance company or your insurance agent. If you have at least your Declarations Page, we can start the claim process and then request the full policy once the claim has been filed.

The Date of Loss (DOL) is the exact day the damage occurred to your property. This date is critical for determining coverage. It is different from the Notice of Loss, which is when you first discovered the damage.
If you are unsure of the exact date, talk to us before reporting it to your insurance company, as providing the wrong date could affect your claim

Insurance companies require mortgage information because your mortgage company must be listed on the claim check when a payment is issued. Sometimes mortgages are sold to another lender without your knowledge, which is why insurance companies ask for verification.
You can find your mortgage company name and loan number on your monthly mortgage statement (paper or online).

Here’s what the insurance claim process with us looks like:

  1. We review your insurance policy and damages.
  2. We document all damages and gather expert reports if needed.
  3. We file the claim with your insurance company.
  4. Within 1–2 weeks, an inspection with the insurance company takes place.
  5. In about 3–4 weeks after inspection, the insurance company issues a coverage determination.
  6. We negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair settlement.

This process ensures you don’t miss deadlines and maximizes your payout.

Yes, you can still file a claim. In Florida, claims from insolvent companies are handled by the Florida Insurance Guaranty Association (FIGA). In Texas, it’s handled by the Texas Property and Casualty Insurance Guaranty Association (TPCIGA).

  • The damage must have occurred before your policy was canceled.
  • If another insurance company assumes your policy, any new damage must be filed with your new insurer.

Keep in mind, claims with FIGA or TPCIGA may take longer due to high claim volumes.

Filing deadlines vary by state. In Florida:

  • You have 2 years from the date of loss to file a claim.
  • During a state of emergency, you have 3 years.

It’s always best to give your insurance company prompt notice as soon as damage occurs.

Most of the time, yes. As long as your loss is covered by your policy and not excluded,we will fight to get you the maximum settlement for your repairs.

 Keep in mind that high deductibles or policy exclusions (like water damage or hurricane exclusions) may reduce your payout.

Hiring us is like hiring a realtor when buying or selling a home; you can do it yourself, but you’ll usually get better results with an expert.

Data from Florida hurricane claims shows that policyholders who hire public adjusters receive an average of 750% more than those who go through the process alone.

The insurance company’s adjuster works for them, not you. Their goal is to minimize payouts. We, on the other hand, represent only your best interests, ensuring that your damages are fully documented and your claim is maximized.

Contractors can assist by identifying damages and providing repair estimates, but they cannot interpret your insurance policy, determine coverage, or negotiate with the insurance company. Doing so is considered unlicensed public adjusting, which is a felony in many states.

We are licensed to handle all aspects of the claim legally and professionally.

While attorneys can act as public adjusters in some states, they usually step in during lawsuits if a settlement can’t be reached. Attorneys often charge higher fees and practice multiple areas of law, while public adjusters specialize only in property insurance claims.
Most homeowners benefit from starting with us, and if needed, we can bring in attorneys later.

Your policy requires it. The Proof of Loss is not valid until it is notarized, and your insurance company won’t recognize it otherwise. This is part of your duties after a loss under your insurance policy.

Letter of Representation Questions

What is the difference between emergency and non-emergency claims?

An emergency claim happens when the state declares a state of emergency, such as during a hurricane or major disaster.
A non-emergency claim is any property damage claim filed outside of a declared emergency.

Why does it matter? Because the rules, deadlines, and our fee limits change during a state of emergency. For example, in Florida, public adjuster fees are capped at 10% during emergencies instead of the standard 20%.

  • Texas (TX): You have 72 hours from signing to cancel.

     

  • Florida (FL): You have 10 days from signing to cancel.

     

This cancellation period is protected by law to ensure homeowners feel confident in their decision.

In most cases, no additional fees will be charged beyond our standard public adjuster fee.
The only exceptions occur if we mutually agree (by phone and written email) that outside expert help is needed, such as:

  • An independent engineer’s inspection

     

  • Specialized testing for complex claims (usually commercial, not residential)

     

We never move forward with added costs without your knowledge and approval.

No. Our agreement is contingency-based, meaning you only pay if we recover money for you.

However, there is a $1,500 cancellation fee if:

  • We believe your claim still has potential,

     

  • We have already invested significant time and work.

     

  • You decide to cancel after the 10-day grace period.

     

This ensures fairness when our resources have already been dedicated to your claim.

The $1,500 fee applies in specific cases where:

  • We perform work and incur expenses, but no settlement is reached.

     

  • You cancel our services after the 10-day cancellation window.

     

This fee covers the time, documentation, and effort already invested in your claim. It does not apply to most claims that move forward to settlement.

Florida law requires us to clearly state both possible fee structures:

  • 10% fee for claims filed during a state of emergency.

     

  • 20% fee for non-emergency claims.

     

This dual percentage ensures transparency and compliance with state regulations.

Common Questions After Hiring Us

Do I have to do anything throughout the insurance claim if I hire SRQ?

Very little! When you hire us, we handle your claim from start to finish. The only things we ask are:

  • Be available by phone or email if we need documents or notarized paperwork.

     

  • Allow access to your property for inspections and appointments with the insurance company or contractors.

     

Other than that, we communicate directly with your insurance company so you don’t have to.

If an insurance representative reaches out to you:

  1. Write down their name and phone number.

     

  2. Send the information to us by text or you can also email details directly to us at [email protected].

     

Never feel pressured to answer questions without us; we’ll take it from there.

Our public adjuster in charge of your claim will handle all communication with the insurance company, including:

  • Phone calls

     

  • Emails

     

  • Inspections

     

  • Negotiations

     

This ensures your claim is managed professionally and your rights are protected.

Once you’ve signed our Letter of Representation, our office will officially file the claim on your behalf. This guarantees everything is submitted correctly and on time.

Yes! We typically update clients when major milestones happen in the claim. If you’d like additional updates in between, you’re always welcome to call our office or email us for the latest status.

You may be carbon copied (CC’d) on emails we send to your insurance company. These emails are not directed at you, they’re simply to keep you in the loop and provide transparency on your claim progress. No action is required on your part.

We have a team approach. While your original adjuster remains your main point of contact, other licensed adjusters and staff may also work on your claim to ensure you get the fastest and best results possible. This collaboration often leads to quicker settlements and stronger case preparation.

Inspection Scheduling

Do I need to be present at the inspection when I work with SRQ?

Not necessarily. As long as you provide consent and access to your property, we can attend the inspection on your behalf. This allows us to represent you even if you’re not available.

We will be present with the insurance company during the inspection. Our representative role is to:

  • Point out all damages
  • Ensure nothing is overlooked
  • Coordinate with experts (roofer, contractor, plumber, etc.) if additional support is needed

Yes. If you won’t be available, you can authorize a family member or trusted representative to be present during the inspection. Just let us know in advance so we can coordinate.

Absolutely. Please call our office or email us at [email protected] to request a new date and time.

It’s normal for insurance companies to request multiple inspections. This may happen if:

  • They need a different field adjuster to review

     

  • They want a specialist (roofing, plumbing, engineering) to assess damages

     

  • They are completing a re-inspection to confirm findings

     

We will attend all inspections to ensure your damages are fully documented.

Insurance companies are required to investigate the loss thoroughly. If they believe something was missed or need another expert’s opinion, they may schedule additional inspections. We’ll be there each time to represent your interests and make sure the process is handled fairly.

Questions During the Claim

My insurance company reached out to me regarding my claim. What should I do?

Please contact our office right away so we can handle all communications. Remember, our job is to represent you, so use us as your main point of contact.

We recommend letting us handle communication because:

  • We are experts in claims and negotiations.

     

  • Having one main point of contact avoids confusion and misunderstandings.

     

  • Over-communication is actually helpful, bring all your questions to us, and we’ll relay information to the insurance company properly.

On average, our claims take 3 to 9 months to reach an agreement with the insurance company. Complex or denied claims can take longer.

  • Most claims in our office are resolved within 90 days.

     

If not, we usually recommend consulting an attorney, since litigation can take 6 months to 6 years, which is why we try to avoid that step whenever possible.

  • For a detailed update, call our office.

     

  • For a quick update, email us at [email protected].

Yes. If the claim was filed while you owned the property, the proceeds will still be paid to you once it is settled. You need to let the buyer know about the claim ongoing.
 

Still, please let us know first, since there may be pros and cons depending on your situation and the claim status.

  1. Yes, you can. However, it may be harder to find coverage with an open claim. We recommend:

    1. Talk with your insurance agent about canceling and finding a new policy.
    2. Consult with us before making any decisions.There may be pros and cons depending on your situation and the claim status.

Your claim is a priority. We follow up with your insurance company at least once a week. Most delays happen because we are waiting on the insurance company’s next steps.

  • Take photos and videos immediately.

     

  • Document as much as you can.

     

  • Contact us so we can advise you on the best way to report and include this in your ongoing claim.

Estimates Questions

Why is the estimate so high?

Our estimate is based on Xactimate, an industry-accepted software used nationwide. Here’s how it works:

  • We submit measurements, materials, and details of the damage.

  • The software generates the price per unit based on your location and current market rates.

  • We cannot control the price, it’s built into the system. The only thing we control is the scope (line items) included.

If you believe something shouldn’t be included, we’ll explain why it’s important. If a line item is incorrect, we can adjust it. In short, the software sets the price, and we make sure everything needed to restore your property is included.

The difference usually comes down to:

  • Training & experience – our estimators are certified to prepare complete and accurate repair estimates.

  • Scope of work – we make sure nothing is left out, while insurance adjusters sometimes follow company guidelines that limit what they include.

  • Negotiation – every line item must be agreed upon by both sides. Our role is to defend each necessary repair item to ensure you receive the funds you need.

The 48-hour window is a grace period to avoid unnecessary delays. Many clients don’t check emails regularly, so this timeframe ensures your claim keeps moving quickly. If you need more time, just let us know, we’ll work with you.

  • We have collaborators specifically trained to prepare insurance estimates.

  • We also work with licensed contractors and professional estimate writers to ensure accuracy.

The amount is calculated in Xactimate, based on your property’s measurements, local pricing, and the required scope of work.

Yes. If new damages are discovered or if something was missed, we can revise the estimate and submit updated line items.

Please contact our office right away so we can correct the estimate.

Sworn Proof of Loss (SPOL) Questions

1. What is a Sworn Proof of Loss?

A Sworn Proof of Loss (SPOL) is a legal document required by your insurance company as part of your post-loss obligations. It is our formal statement of the damages and the amount we are claiming.

  • It must be signed, notarized, and submitted within a specific timeframe.

  • Because deadlines are strict, it’s important to complete and submit it as soon as possible.

We will prepare a pre-filled form for you, based on our estimate. All you need to do is review, sign, and notarize it.

  • Print the form we provide.

  • Sign it in front of a notary public.

  • Common places with notary services: banks, shipping stores (UPS, FedEx), check cashing stores, accountants, or tax preparation services.

You can:

  • Take photos or scans of all pages and email/text them to us.

  • Keep the original for your records (if we ever need the original, we’ll request it).

Claim was denied or approved for repair only

I feel entitled to more money. What can I do?

If you haven’t already, schedule a consultation with us to review your claim.

  • If we are already representing you, we’ll guide you based on where you are in the process.

     

  • There are multiple strategies available—negotiations, supplemental claims, or legal action—depending on your situation and goals.

Denials are common in Florida (we have one of the highest denial rates in the U.S.). But a denial doesn’t always mean the claim is over.

  • If we believe your denial was wrongful, we’ll reopen the claim by presenting evidence, requesting a reinspection, or challenging the decision directly.

     

  • If necessary, we can explore further legal options to keep fighting for coverage.

If your claim is underpaid or denied, you still have options:

  • Negotiation & supplements (handled by your public adjuster).
  • Reinspection (to document missed damages).
  • Appraisal, mediation, or litigation (depending on your case).

Contact us for a consultation to go over which option fits your claim.

Often, the insurance company pays only part of the claim up front.

  • You can use those funds to begin repairs while we continue negotiating for the remaining amount owed.

     

  • Once additional funds are secured, you can complete the rest of the repairs.

A Notice of Intent to Litigate (NOI) is filed when negotiations reach an impasse.

  • In Florida, once an NOI is filed, the insurance company has 10 days to:

     

    • Maintain their denial

       

    • Request another inspection

       

    • Make a new settlement offer.

       

  • If no resolution is reached, the next step is litigation (filing a lawsuit).

We are not attorneys, so you must speak directly with a lawyer for exact costs. However:

  • In some cases, especially in Florida, the insurance company may be responsible for attorney fees depending on the litigation outcome.

  • If you don’t have an attorney, we can connect you with trusted firms we’ve worked with that specialize in property insurance claims.

Florida Bar rules prohibit attorneys from directly soliciting clients. For that reason, if you want legal advice, you must reach out to them first.

Claim was Approved

I disagree with the insurance payment my insurance sent me due to my claim. What now?

If you don’t agree with the payment amount, speak to us. There are several dispute resolution options available in your policy that we can use to negotiate a fair settlement and make sure you’re paid what you’re entitled to.

Depreciation is the reduction in value of your property over time due to age or wear.

  • Recoverable depreciation means the insurance company will pay you the withheld amount once you’ve completed the repairs and show proof.

  • Non-recoverable depreciation means the insurance will not pay the withheld amount, and you are responsible for covering it yourself.

For example, if your roof is 10 years old, the insurance won’t pay you as if it were brand new—they’ll calculate its current value.

Your deductible is paid directly to the contractor doing the repairs (such as your roofer). Think of it like a copay at the doctor’s office, your insurance covers most of the cost, but you’re responsible for your portion. Paying your deductible is required by law.

Appraisal is a dispute resolution process included in many policies. Here’s how it works:

  1. We request appraisal from your insurance company. They have 20 days to respond.

  2. If they accept, both sides choose an appraiser.

  3. The two appraisers inspect your property and create estimates.

  4. If they cannot agree, a neutral umpire is brought in to make the final decision.

This process helps establish a fair amount for your damages.

Mediation is another option to resolve disputes, handled through the State of Florida.

  • A state-appointed mediator schedules a meeting (usually within 30 days).

  • The meeting is held via Zoom or phone.

  • You, your adjuster, the mediator, and the insurance company representative attend.

  • Before the meeting, your adjuster will call you to prepare you for what to expect.

Both are alternative dispute options:

  • Appraisal is handled between independent appraisers and possibly an umpire.

  • Mediation involves a state-appointed mediator and direct negotiation with your insurance company.

Which one applies depends on your policy and the strategy we choose to get you the best settlement.

We recommend waiting until your claim is fully resolved before starting major repairs. Small repairs with your initial payment are usually fine. However, if you replace a full roof or remodel before settlement, our original estimate becomes invalid and you’ll have to prove costs with receipts.

A release is a legal document you sign when you and the insurance company reach a final settlement. By signing, you agree not to ask for more money later, even if new damages are discovered. Once signed, the insurance company’s obligations for that claim are complete, and any extra costs fall on you.

Payments Questions

I just received a check from my insurance company. What do I do?

It’s common for insurance companies to send checks directly to you. Please notify our office right away so we can guide you on the next steps. 

No. We only charge a fee on payments issued after the contract is signed.

I don’t want to accept a check because the payment is low.

Don’t worry, accepting a check doesn’t mean you agree with the amount. Insurance companies send undisputed payments because you are entitled to that money.

  • We process the payment.

  • At the same time, we notify the insurance company that there’s still a dispute.

Only when you sign a release the claim become final.

Our fee is due each time you receive a check. This can be handled through iink Payments (digital option) or by mailing us a physical check for our fee.

Some insurance carriers send checks directly to you; others send them to us. Having checks sent to our office actually speeds things up. We can endorse them and move the process forward quickly.

If you’re not using iink Payments, it’s our policy to collect our fee before mailing your endorsed insurance check back to you. This ensures compliance and keeps the process running smoothly.

Not necessarily. As long as this check was not tied to an appraisal or release, we will continue to negotiate with your insurance company for additional payments until your damages are properly covered.

By law, your mortgage company must be included. Insurance companies cannot issue the check without them, and your bank won’t let you deposit it without their endorsement.

It depends on the specifics of your claim, but we follow up weekly with your insurance company to make sure your claim doesn’t sit untouched. Our goal is to keep things moving and reduce delays.

The process varies by mortgage company. Here’s what to do:

  1. Contact your mortgage company as soon as you receive the check.

  2. Provide them with the adjuster’s worksheet (we can help you with this).

  3. Follow their instructions for endorsement and release.

We’ll assist you through this process to make it as smooth as possible.

Iink Pay Questions

What is iink Payments?

iink Payments is a third-party service that helps process and distribute insurance checks. They handle endorsements for all parties listed on the check, including mortgage companies, so the funds can be disbursed efficiently.

  • If your insurance check lists a mortgage, there is a 1% fee up to $150.

     

  • Example of fee breakdown for a $15,000 total check split among three parties:

     

    • SRQ  $3,000 → $30 fee

       

    • Roofer $5,000 → $50 fee

       

    • You $7,000 → $70 fee

       

  • If there is no mortgage listed, using iink is free.

Your banking information allows iink to deposit your portion of the insurance check directly into your account.

Yes. iink Payments is FDIC insured, which means your money is protected while it’s being processed. This ensures your funds are safe and secure throughout the insurance check disbursement process.

Yes. If you prefer not to use iink:

  1. Mail us a check for our fee based on the contract and invoice.

  2. Mail your insurance check to us for endorsement.

  3. We will return the endorsed insurance check to you.

  4. If a mortgage is listed, you must coordinate with your mortgage company for their endorsement.

Processing can take a few steps:

  1. iink collects endorsements from all parties listed on the check.

  2. Once endorsements are received, they generate a FedEx label to mail the check to the mortgage company.

  3. The mortgage company may request additional info or endorse and mail the check back.

  4. A photo of the back of the endorsed check must be uploaded to iink.

After this, funds are typically disbursed within a week.

No. The mortgage endorsement must be uploaded to iink Payments for final processing. You can send a clear photo of the endorsed check to us for upload.

No. Once you begin using iink Payments, you must complete the process. Cancelling will result in responsibility for the full fee owed, up to $150.

iink Payments allows all parties to receive their portion of the insurance check via direct deposit, eliminating the need to mail physical checks back and forth for endorsements. It streamlines the process and reduces effort on your part.

  • You must enter your direct deposit information.

  • If a mortgage is listed, the 1% fee applies, max $150.

  • Once the check is sent to your mortgage, the timeline is out of our control.

  • After mortgage endorsement, funds are typically disbursed within a week.

  • No cancellations are allowed once the process begins.

For checks $40,000 or more, we recommend mailing us our fee and the insurance check. We will endorse it and return it to you for processing with your mortgage company. Large checks can take longer through iink Payments.

It may not necessarily be faster, but it reduces your effort. Your main tasks are digitally endorsing the check and possibly sending a photo of the mortgage-endorsed check.

Certified Public Adjusters in Florida

As public adjusters, we aid in explaining insurance policies, endorsement analysis, and the limits for costs of repair and replacement. Our state-licensed public adjusters work hard to give our clients the best possible customer service while keeping them updated on the status of their insurance claims. We can also assist you in negotiating the largest payment possible with your insurance provider. Contact us now to learn more about our public adjusting services.