Licensed Public Adjusters for Homeowners and Property Owners

Claim Defenders is a licensed public adjuster firm serving Florida and Tennessee. We represent homeowners and property owners during the property insurance claim process—documenting damage, valuing losses, and negotiating settlements on behalf of policyholders.

We work exclusively for property owners. We do not represent insurance companies.

Serving Florida and Tennessee | Available 24/7 | Licensed & Insured

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Insurance companies employ adjusters to protect their financial interests. Policyholders have the legal right to hire their own representation.

Claim Defenders act as your professional advocate throughout the claims process.

WHAT IS A PUBLIC ADJUSTER AND WHAT DO THEY DO?

A public adjuster is a licensed insurance professional who represents policyholders—not insurance companies—during property damage claims. Public adjusters are licensed by state insurance departments and are legally authorized to:

● Interpret insurance policy language and coverage terms

● Inspect and document property damage

● Prepare detailed repair and replacement cost estimates

● File claims and required documentation with insurers

● Communicate directly with insurance company adjusters

● Negotiate claim settlements on behalf of property owners

Public adjusters differ from insurance company adjusters (who work for insurers) and independent adjusters (who are hired by insurers on a contract basis). Claim Defenders works solely for property owners.

WHAT WE DO

Claim Defenders’ Public Adjuster Services
Claim Defenders manages the entire insurance claim process from initial inspection through final settlement. Our licensed public adjusters handle:

Policy Analysis

We review your insurance policy to identify applicable coverage, exclusions, and documentation requirements before filing or continuing a claim.

Damage Inspection and Documentation

We inspect and document property damage, gathering photos, reports, and supporting evidence to accurately assess losses and strengthen your insurance claim.

Claim Valuation and Estimation

We prepare comprehensive repair and replacement cost estimates using Xactimate and other industry-standard estimating software accepted by insurance carriers.

Claim Filing and Submission

We compile and submit all required documentation, ensuring claims meet insurer requirements and deadlines.

Adjuster Communication

We handle all communication with insurance company adjusters, responding to requests and attending inspections on your behalf.

Settlement Negotiation

We negotiate directly with your insurance company using documented evidence and policy language to pursue the full settlement amount supported by your coverage.

Antoine Bryan

Claim Defenders were my saviors! Had a ceiling cave in from a leak and I had no idea what to do. They were able to come and guide me through the process to make sure not only we received enough funds for the repairs but also made sure me and family were walked through process with ease and the best part, stress free! Make sure you call them if you ever run into an issue to make sure you get the service and repairs you deserve!

JAM

Prompt replies and amazing service. Highly recommend!

Molina & Son Brick Pavers, Inc.

We had a great experience working with Claim Defenders and the owner, Jesie Nelson. Jesie was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process. He took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure the claim was handled properly from start to finish. His attention to detail and dedication really made a difference. I highly recommend Claim Defenders to anyone looking for honest, reliable help with their claim.

Patrick Couchman

A neighbor gave me Jesse's number. I forget if I called him or texted him first but whatever it was, we set up an appointment and he came out to our house and met with my wife and I. He explained what he thought they could do and long story short, we definitely feel he exceeded our expectations. He's very professional and responsive. We'll be recommending him and his company, Claim Defenders, if we know of anyone else looking for a public adjuster.

Jordan Fertel

Jesse and his team ant The Claim Defenders are diligent and knowledgeable. When fighting against an insurance company, please use these professionals!

Justin Birkenholz

I had a roof leak in multiple areas of my house and the insurance carrier tried to low ball me. I hired the Claim Defenders. They came in, took over and got me an exceptional settlement. We received a full roof replacement! Thank you guys for everything!

Justin Lequerique

I was given Jess’s number from a friend! We had a serious water leak from a bursted water line and it flooded the entire kitchen and living room! All the wood floors popped, the base of the kitchen cabinets were soaked! Jesse came in and was very professional from the start! He handled my claim and helped me from start to finish! I felt like he made the impossible, possible! I would highly, highly recommend Jesse and his company! He did a phenomenal job!

Elio Solari

Thank you so much Claim Defenders for officially an extremely successful claim process. Great service, Jesse is involved in the process from start to finish and really makes it feel as a family member is helping you out. Would highly reccomend to anyone that needs to deal with an insurance claim. Doing it yourself is counter productive! Have the claim defenders make you some good money! Highly recommend.

Christopher Kuleci

I have been stressed out working with my insurance company over hurricane losses that were identified after our initial inspection and payout. The Claim Defenders were able to lift that burden off my shoulders and deliver an insurance payout roughly two weeks after we started working together. I only wish I had contacted them earlier. Can't recommend them enough.

WHO WE HELP

Who Hires a Public Adjuster?

Claim Defenders represents:

Homeowners with residential property damage claims, including single-family homes, condominiums, and townhouses.

Landlords and Property Investors managing claims for rental properties, multi-family buildings, and investment real estate.

Business Owners with commercial property damage affecting retail spaces, offices, warehouses, and other commercial structures.
Property Managers handling claims on behalf of property owners or homeowner associations.

Policyholders with Complex Claims involving multiple damage types, disputed coverage, or high-value losses.

Policyholders with Denied, Delayed, or Underpaid Claims who believe their insurance company’s initial response does not reflect the actual damage or policy coverage.

If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies, we provide free initial consultations to assess your claim.

TYPES OF CLAIMS

Types of Property Insurance Claims We Handle
Claim Defenders assists with residential and commercial property insurance claims including:

Storm and Hurricane Damage
Wind damage, roof damage, siding damage, broken windows, fallen trees, and structural damage from tropical storms, hurricanes, and severe weather events.

Water Damage
Burst pipes, plumbing failures, appliance leaks, roof leaks, flooding, and water intrusion damage to structures and contents.

Fire and Smoke Damage
Structural fire damage, smoke damage, soot contamination, and secondary water damage from firefighting efforts.

Hail Damage
Roof damage, siding damage, window damage, gutter damage, and other exterior damage from hailstorms.

Roof Damage
Storm damage, wind-lifted shingles, missing tiles, leaks, and structural roof failures covered under property insurance policies.

Mold Damage
Mold growth resulting from covered water damage events, including remediation and repair costs where policy coverage applies.

Theft and Vandalism
Property damage and losses resulting from break-ins, theft, and intentional property damage.

Each claim is evaluated based on your specific policy language, coverage limits, and documented damage.

OUR PROCESS

How Claim Defenders’ Public Adjuster Process Works

1: Free Claim Consultation

Contact us to discuss your situation. We review the basic facts of your claim at no cost to determine if professional representation would benefit you.

2: Policy Review

We obtain and analyze your insurance policy to understand coverage terms, exclusions, limits, and claim requirements specific to your situation.

3: Property Inspection

Our licensed adjusters conduct a comprehensive inspection of your property, documenting all damage with photographs, measurements, and detailed notes.

4: Claim Valuation

We prepare a complete scope of loss and repair estimate using industry-standard software and current material and labor pricing.

5: Claim Submission

We compile all documentation and submit your claim (or supplemental claim) to your insurance company with supporting evidence.

6: Insurance Company Communication

We serve as your point of contact with the insurance company, responding to adjuster inquiries, attending re-inspections, and addressing coverage questions.

7: Settlement Negotiation

We review the insurance company’s response and negotiate on your behalf, presenting documented evidence to support the full value of your claim.

8: Claim Resolution

Once settlement is reached, we review final documentation to confirm the agreed amount before you accept payment.

WHAT WE ARE AND AREN'T

Claim Defenders: Clear Service Boundaries

Claim Defenders is:

A licensed public adjuster firm representing policyholders
Authorized to negotiate insurance claims on your behalf
Focused on documentation, valuation, and claim negotiation
Paid only when your claim settles (contingency basis)

Claim Defenders is not:

An insurance company or insurance agency
A law firm or provider of legal advice
A roofing contractor or repair company
A restoration or remediation company

We coordinate with contractors and restoration companies but do not perform repair work ourselves. If your claim requires legal action beyond our scope, we explain your options and can refer you to qualified insurance claim attorneys.

WHY HIRE A PUBLIC ADJUSTER

Why Homeowners and Property Owners Hire Public Adjusters

Insurance Claims Are Complex

Policy language, coverage interpretations, and documentation requirements create obstacles for policyholders unfamiliar with the claims process.

Insurance Companies Protect Their Interests

Insurance company adjusters work for the insurer, not the policyholder. Their job is to evaluate claims on behalf of the company paying them.

Damage Is Often Undervalued

Initial insurance company estimates frequently miss secondary damage, undervalue repair costs, or apply depreciation that reduces payouts below actual repair costs.

Time and Documentation Requirements Are Demanding

Proper claim documentation requires inspections, photography, written scopes, cost estimates, and ongoing communication that many property owners cannot manage while dealing with property damage

Professional Representation Levels the Process

Public adjusters understand policy language, documentation standards, and negotiation processes. Having professional representation helps ensure claims are presented completely and accurately.

FEES AND PAYMENT

How Public Adjuster Fees Work

What this means:

● No upfront costs or retainer fees

● No payment if your claim does not result in a settlement

● Our compensation is directly tied to your claim outcome

● Fee percentage is disclosed in writing before any work begins

Standard Fee Structure: Industry-standard public adjuster fees typically range from 10% to 20% of the settlement amount, depending on claim complexity and timing. Fees for supplemental claims on previously settled losses may differ from fees for new claims.

We provide a written agreement explaining all fees before you commit to representation.

Where Claim Defenders Operates

Claim Defenders is licensed to represent property owners in:

Florida

Statewide coverage including Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Hillsborough, Orange, Duval, and all other Florida counties. Florida License #W579025 (Alexander McEuen).

Tennessee

Coverage throughout Tennessee. License details available upon request.

Service availability for specific claim types may vary. Contact us to confirm coverage for your location and claim type.

Frequently Asked Questions About Public Adjusters and Insurance Claims

Can I hire a public adjuster for my insurance claim?

Yes. Policyholders have the legal right to hire a licensed public adjuster to represent them during the insurance claim process. This right exists in all U.S. states, though licensing requirements vary by state.

What is the difference between a public adjuster and an insurance company adjuster?

An insurance company adjuster (also called a staff adjuster) works for your insurance company and evaluates claims on their behalf. A public adjuster works exclusively for policyholders and advocates for your interests, not the insurer’s.

How much does a public adjuster cost?

Public adjusters typically work on contingency, meaning they receive a percentage of your claim settlement (usually 10–20%) rather than charging upfront fees. You pay nothing if your claim does not settle.

Will my insurance company work with a public adjuster?

Yes. Insurance companies are legally required to communicate with authorised representatives. Once you hire a public adjuster and provide authorisation, the insurance company must direct claim communications through your representative.

When should I hire a public adjuster?

You can hire a public adjuster at any stage: before filing a claim, during an active claim, or after receiving a settlement offer you believe is inadequate. Earlier involvement often allows for more thorough documentation, but public adjusters regularly help with underpaid or denied claims.

Will filing a claim raise my insurance rates?

Insurance premiums are calculated using multiple factors including regional claim frequency, property characteristics, and overall market conditions. Filing a legitimate claim does not automatically increase your premium, and your policy entitles you to coverage for covered losses.

Will my insurance company drop me if I file a claim?

Insurance companies can non-renew policies for various reasons, but filing a single legitimate claim rarely results in policy cancellation. Companies are more likely to review accounts with multiple claims in short periods.

How long does the public adjuster process take?

Timeline varies by claim complexity and insurance company responsiveness. Most claims see initial insurance company action within 30–90 days. Complex claims or disputes may take longer. If litigation becomes necessary, legal timelines apply.

Do I still need a public adjuster if I already filed my claim?

Yes. Public adjusters frequently assist with claims that have already been filed, including claims that have been underpaid, denied, or delayed. We can file supplemental claims or reopen negotiations on existing claims.

What if my claim is denied?

A claim denial is not necessarily final. Public adjusters can review denials, identify grounds for appeal, and submit additional documentation to support reconsideration. If the denial stands, we explain options including appraisal and legal referral.

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Request a Free Insurance Claim Review

If you have property damage and want to understand your options, contact Claim Defenders for a no-obligation consultation. We will review your situation, explain whether professional representation would benefit your claim, and answer your questions about the process.

There is no cost for initial consultations. There is no obligation to hire us.

Request a Free Claim Review

Claim Defenders is:

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.