noun
adjuster
In plain English
The person assigned by the insurance carrier to investigate, value, and settle a claim.
Three flavors: staff adjuster (carrier employee), independent adjuster (contractor — common in catastrophes), and public adjuster (works for you, not the carrier). The first two adjust against you; the third adjusts for you.
What it covers
Investigates the loss, determines coverage, scopes damage, sets reserves, and negotiates settlement on the carrier's behalf. Has authority to authorize payment up to a limit.
What it does not cover
Adjusters do NOT represent you. Their fiduciary duty is to the carrier. Friendly demeanor isn't the same as advocacy.
Where it trips people up
Public adjusters take a percentage (often 10-20%) of the settlement. They make sense on six-figure losses where the time investment justifies the fee — not on small claims.
The technical version
A licensed insurance professional responsible for investigating claims, determining coverage, evaluating damages, and negotiating settlement on behalf of an insurer (staff or independent) or the insured (public adjuster).