Property claims glossary
What does a claims adjuster do?
An adjuster is the professional who investigates a claim, establishes the facts, applies the policy and recommends or makes the payment decision. On a property claim the adjuster carries both the technical work of coverage and the human work of guiding a family through one of the hardest weeks of their year.
Worked example · fictitious claim
An adjuster inspects a $32,000 kitchen fire loss, confirms a covered peril and a $1,000 deductible, and applies $5,000 of depreciation. The first payment is $32,000 − $5,000 − $1,000 = $26,000. The adjuster explains in writing that the $5,000 can be recovered once repairs are complete.
How it affects a settlement
The adjuster's findings and decision set both the amount and the timing of payment. A clear, well-documented decision shortens cycle time and lowers the chance of a dispute.
In practice
The professional who investigates a claim, establishes the facts, applies the policy, and recommends or makes the payment decision. Staff adjusters are employed by the carrier; the role carries both the technical work of coverage and the human work of guiding a policyholder through the worst week of their year.
Related
Independent adjuster (IA) · Public adjuster · AI property claims review · property claims glossary