What is Independent Adjuster?
A claims adjuster who is not employed by any single insurance company but is hired on a contract basis to investigate and evaluate claims.
Understanding Independent Adjuster
Insurance companies often hire independent adjusters when they have a high volume of claims, such as after a natural disaster, or when they need an adjuster in a geographic area where they lack staff. While independent adjusters are supposed to be objective, they are still paid by the insurance company and their findings may reflect the insurer's interests.
Examples
- 1Insurer hiring independent adjuster after a hurricane to process claims
- 2Independent adjuster investigating a complex commercial liability claim
- 3Contractor adjuster assigned to evaluate property damage after a flood
Related Terms
Claims Adjuster
An insurance company employee or contractor who investigates claims, determines coverage, and evaluates damages to recommend settlement amounts.
Insurance Bad Faith
An insurance company's unreasonable denial, delay, or underpayment of a legitimate insurance claim in violation of its duty of good faith and fair dealing.
First-Party Claim
An insurance claim filed by a policyholder against their own insurance company for losses covered under their policy.
Reservation of Rights
A formal notice from an insurance company informing the policyholder that while they will investigate or defend a claim, they reserve the right to deny coverage or limit their obligations later.
Third-Party Claim
An insurance claim filed against another person's or entity's insurance policy seeking compensation for damages they caused.
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