Before you sign
Built from what policyholders actually complain about to regulators and the BBB. Every item is a question you can ask before a contract exists.
- Has your insurer made an initial offer yet?
Regulators warn that signing before the carrier's first settlement can mean paying a percentage on money you were getting anyway. In most states you keep the right to dispute an offer for a long time after it arrives. Get the first number, then decide. Run the timing check →
- What is the cancellation window, in writing?
Most states give you 3–5 business days; some extend it after declared disasters. After it closes, getting out is the single most common complaint we see. Know the date before you sign.
- Who does the insurer pay — you, or the adjuster's escrow?
"They're holding my check" is a recurring complaint. Ask whether settlement funds are paid to you directly, and if not, the exact disbursement timeline in the contract.
- What's the fee, and what's it applied to?
Percentage of the total, or of the new money above the carrier's offer? On prior payments? Some states forbid fees on money already paid. Check your state's cap →
- Did they contact you, or did you contact them?
Showing up at the scene, calling within 48 hours of a storm, or off-hours solicitation is illegal in several states. It's also the profile of the adjusters regulators discipline most. Report a solicitation →
- Check the license — from the regulator, not the business card.
State insurance departments say exactly this. Every state's lookup is here →
- Who picks the contractor?
Adjusters are barred in most states from taking anything from the contractors who repair your property. Ask directly whether they have any financial relationship with the firms they'll recommend.
- What's the communication commitment?
"Won't return calls" is the #1 complaint category. Ask how often you'll get an update and who your contact is if the adjuster is in the field. Get it in the contract if you can.
State rules we've verified
Informational only. Not legal or insurance advice.