Best-Kept Secret in Homeowners Insurance Claims: The Power of a Public Adjuster

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a natural disaster or significant property damage, the insurance claim process can be overwhelming. And if your insurer isn’t giving you the payout you need to cover repairs, you may feel stuck. But there’s an expert advocate who can help: a public adjuster, and in Georgia, Tim Varga of Catastrophic Consulting, Inc. (CatCon) is a name you’ll want to know.

Public adjusters, like Tim, are licensed professionals who specialize in guiding homeowners through the claims process, pushing insurance companies to deliver fair settlements. Many homeowners aren’t even aware that public adjusters exist. But once they meet someone like Tim, they often wonder how they ever managed without him. TrustDALE has seen firsthand how his work has changed the outcome for countless homeowners dealing with complex insurance issues.

Take, for instance, a couple named Earl and Patricia, who came to TrustDALE after their insurer refused to cover a roof replacement following a severe storm. Instead of paying for a new roof, the insurer offered $500 to “harvest” shingles from other parts of their roof to repair the damage. After hiring Tim at CatCon, they received a $13,000 settlement to cover a complete roof replacement.

Why Aren't Public Adjusters Better Known?

Tim explains, “Most people take the insurance company’s initial assessment as the final word. They don’t realize there’s often room to advocate for a better outcome, and a public adjuster knows the ins and outs of policy language that can increase settlement amounts.” A surprising number of homeowners rely on their contractor to negotiate with insurance companies, which often leaves them under-compensated. Contractors, while skilled at building, may not fully understand policy provisions that public adjusters, like those at CatCon, specialize in.

What a Public Adjuster Can Do For You

So how does a public adjuster make such a difference? According to Tim, it’s all about knowing the fine print. Insurance companies may operate under “best practices” or internal policies that favor minimal payouts. A public adjuster, however, knows how to interpret the actual terms of the policy and secure settlements that truly “indemnify” homeowners—meaning they return the home to its original condition.

One of the most impressive cases involved Dale Cardwell’s own home after a tornado struck his property. During repairs, the roofer discovered the decking (the plywood under the shingles) wasn’t properly installed. Dale’s insurance company wanted to classify it as “wear and tear,” refusing to cover the $11,000 cost. Tim and his team at CatCon proved that the decking had been improperly installed since the original construction, invoking a policy provision called “ordinance or law” that requires the insurer to meet current building codes. This adjustment saved Dale $11,000 and highlighted just how valuable public adjusters can be.

Who Pays for the Public Adjuster?

While there’s no law requiring insurance companies to pay for a public adjuster, most companies won’t cover the fee. Instead, the cost usually falls on the homeowner. However, the savings and increased settlement amounts often far exceed the cost of hiring a public adjuster. In Dale’s case, the fee was just a fraction of the amount Tim saved him.

How to Find a Public Adjuster in Georgia

If you’re navigating an insurance claim, hiring a public adjuster can make a significant difference. For trusted, licensed professionals, visit TrustDALE.com or check out the Georgia Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (GAPIA.org) to find qualified public adjusters. You can also contact Tim Varga directly through TrustDALE to learn more about your options.

The insurance policy is a contract between you and your insurer—having a public adjuster who knows policy language as well as the insurers can help you get the settlement you deserve. Don't settle for less. Connect with a public adjuster today and take control of your homeowners' insurance claim.

Tim Varga is a licensed Public Adjuster with the state of Georgia. License number is 577181. www.catconinc.com 678-602-3612

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