Claims Adjuster
Definition. A Claims Adjuster is the insurance professional who investigates a claim, evaluates the damages or loss, applies policy terms, and negotiates the settlement on behalf of the insurer (or the policyholder, depending on the type of adjuster).
Also known as: Claims Adjuster, Insurance Adjuster
Three types of adjusters:
- Staff Adjuster — employed directly by the insurance carrier.
- Independent Adjuster — contracted by the carrier for surge capacity (catastrophes, large losses).
- Public Adjuster — hired by the policyholder, paid a percentage of the recovery, advocates for the insured rather than the carrier.
Most states require adjusters to hold a state-issued license; requirements vary substantially by state.
Example
After a kitchen fire, a Staff Adjuster from the carrier inspects the property, photographs damage, gets contractor repair estimates, and applies the Commercial Property policy terms to calculate the settlement.
Sources cited
- Adjuster —
Need claims adjuster coverage?
Compare quotes from 10+ commercial insurance carriers in 5 minutes. Free, no contact info required.
Get My Quotes →Disclosures
📘 Educational content only.
Reviewed by California-licensed Property & Casualty insurance agent
Jason Wootton (CA License #0I94454). Not insurance advice, an individual recommendation, or a solicitation in any state. Insurance regulations vary by state. For specific coverage decisions, consult a licensed insurance agent in your state.
Advertiser disclosure.
Get Business Coverage is a licensed insurance referral service. We may receive
compensation when you click links to carrier partners or complete a quote. This
compensation may impact how and where products appear on this page, but it does
not influence our editorial content or research methodology.