What Is Our Fiduciary Responsibility?

?Do you know what it means when someone says they have a fiduciary duty to you?

What Is Our Fiduciary Responsibility?

You hire a public adjuster to speak and act for you with your insurance company. You expect the adjuster to put your needs first. You expect clear facts, honest advice, and strong help. This promise is the core of a fiduciary responsibility. It means the adjuster must act for your benefit and not for their own secret gain.

Why this matters to you

You live in Florida. You own a home. You face damage from a hurricane, a roof leak, water from a broken pipe, or even a kitchen fire. You feel lost when you look at forms, photos, invoices, and insurance rules. You want someone who cares for your claim like you would care for your favorite toy. That is the role of a public adjuster. A good adjuster protects your right to a fair payout. They speak for you. They fight for you.

Who owes this duty?

• Licensed public adjusters in Florida owe this duty to the homeowners who hire them.
• The duty is legal and ethical. The adjuster must follow state rules and the contract with you.

The simple promise: act in your best interest

A fiduciary promise is a promise to put you first. Your adjuster must:

• Be honest with you.
• Tell you everything that matters.
• Keep your secrets safe when needed.
• Avoid deals that hurt you.
• Work hard to get the right payout.

Core duties, explained like a story

You hire an adjuster like you hire a helper for a tough job. Imagine you have a treehouse that falls in a storm. You want someone you can trust to fix it and to talk to the treehouse builder for you. Here are the duties in plain words.

Duty of loyalty

The adjuster must put your interest above any other. The adjuster must not help a company or a person who will take your money. If a choice may help the adjuster but hurt you, the adjuster must choose what helps you.

Example: An adjuster should not work with a contractor who gives the adjuster secret pay. The adjuster must tell you about any business ties that could matter.

Duty of care

Your adjuster must act like a careful helper. The adjuster must check things, count costs, read papers, and write down proof. The adjuster must use skill and good sense. The adjuster should use training and tools to find the right amount of damage and cost.

Example: If a roof leak caused mold, the adjuster must document the leak, the mold, and the step-by-step cost to fix both. The adjuster should hire or suggest a specialist if needed.

Duty of full disclosure

The adjuster must tell you the facts you need. The adjuster must tell you who they are working with. The adjuster must tell you in writing how they will be paid. The adjuster must tell you all offers from the insurance company right away.

Example: If the insurance company makes a low offer, the adjuster must show it to you and explain what it means.

Duty of confidentiality

You may share private facts with your adjuster. The adjuster must not tell those facts to others unless you say it is okay. The adjuster may share facts needed to support your claim, but they should not share anything extra that hurts you.

Duty to account

Your adjuster must keep clear records. The adjuster must track money, bids, receipts, and offers. The adjuster must show you what bills exist and how your claim value was decided.

Duty to avoid conflicts of interest

The adjuster must not take jobs or gifts that make it hard to act for you. If the adjuster might have a conflict, they must tell you. If you say yes, then the adjuster can move forward with care.

Example: If an adjuster gets a secret fee from a contractor, the adjuster must tell you. If they do not tell you, they break the promise.

Florida rules and licensing (simple)

Florida makes rules for public adjusters. The rules say the adjuster must be honest and fair. The adjuster must keep a license. The adjuster must show you a written contract and explain it.

You can check a license with Florida’s insurance office. If the adjuster breaks the rules, you can file a complaint. The state can fine or remove the license.

How a fiduciary duty works step by step in a claim

Below is a clear flow of a typical claim. Each step shows what you should expect from an adjuster who acts as your fiduciary.

Step	What happens	What the adjuster must do for you
1. First call	You call for help.	The adjuster listens and explains the first steps. The adjuster offers a free inspection.
2. Inspection	The adjuster visits your home and looks at damage.	The adjuster takes photos, notes, and measurements. The adjuster tells you what they found.
3. Estimate	The adjuster builds a damage and repair estimate.	The adjuster shows how they got the numbers and which repairs are needed.
4. Paperwork	The adjuster files claim documents and proof of loss.	The adjuster completes forms and checks for accuracy before you sign.
5. Negotiation	The adjuster talks with the insurance company.	The adjuster argues for fair value and shows proof. The adjuster keeps you informed.
6. Settlement	You get an offer or payment.	The adjuster explains the offer, and shows your options. The adjuster helps you decide.
7. Close	Repairs start and the claim ends.	The adjuster reviews final costs and assures you get what you need.

What you should ask at the first meeting

You should ask clear questions. Your adjuster must answer in plain words. Here are good questions to ask.

• Are you licensed in Florida?
• How do you get paid?
• Do you work on contingency fees or other fees?
• Will I get a written contract?
• What will you do for me first?
• How long will the claim take?
• Do you have references from Florida homeowners?
• Do you have any ties to contractors or other companies?
• Who will handle my claim day to day?

You should get short, honest answers. If answers sound messy or like magic, you should be careful.

How fees usually work

Many public adjusters work on a contingency basis. That means the adjuster gets paid only if you get money from the claim. The fee is a percent of your payout. The percent must be in your written contract.

You should expect these facts:

• The adjuster must tell you the fee in writing.
• The adjuster must show how they take the fee from the payment.
• The adjuster must not charge secret or extra fees without your written okay.
• The adjuster can charge different percent rates, but they must be fair and clear.

Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals works on a contingency basis and only gets paid when you do. They offer a free initial inspection with no hidden fees.

Contact Otero:
Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals
3105 W Michigan Ave, Pensacola, FL 32526
(850) 285-0405
https://oteroadjusting.com/

How the adjuster proves damage and value

Your adjuster must show proof. Proof can be photos, invoices, contractor bids, and expert reports. The adjuster should use tools such as moisture meters, drone photos for roofs, and construction estimates. The adjuster should explain each proof item.

• Photos show the damage.
• Receipts and invoices show what it costs.
• Specialist reports show why you need a repair.
• A good estimate shows labor, materials, and time.

Your adjuster should give you a copy of all proof. You should keep copies too.

Examples of duty in real situations

These short stories show how duty looks in action.

Hurricane damage

You call after a storm. Your adjuster comes quickly. The adjuster takes roof photos from a drone. The adjuster lists missing shingles and broken gutters. The adjuster writes a clear estimate to fix the roof and water damage inside. You get a fair offer after the adjuster talks with the insurance company. You sign and get money to fix your house.

Water leak and mold

You find a broken pipe. The water soaked the floor and the wall. The adjuster checks for mold and takes samples. The adjuster hires or suggests a mold expert. The adjuster shows the insurance company the test results. The insurance company pays to dry, clean, and fix the wall.

Small kitchen fire

A small fire left soot in your kitchen. The adjuster documents smoke damage and appliance damage. The adjuster works with a contractor to estimate cleaning and replacement. The adjuster defends the claim and gets a fair settlement.

In each case, the adjuster must act for your interest, show proof, and keep you informed.

Red flags to watch for

You should watch for wrong signs. A public adjuster who breaks duty often shows clear red flags.

• The adjuster asks for secret deals with contractors.
• The adjuster asks for large upfront fees without reason.
• The adjuster promises impossible results.
• The adjuster will not give a written contract.
• The adjuster does not show proof for a claim.
• The adjuster delays telling you about offers.
• The adjuster pressures you to sign fast.

If you see these signs, stop. Ask for time. Call the state insurance office. Talk to another adjuster.

How you can protect yourself

You can protect your home and your money. Follow these steps.

1. Check the adjuster’s license with Florida.
2. Get the contract in writing. Read it slowly. Ask if you do not understand.
3. Ask for referrals from Florida homeowners. Call the names they give.
4. Keep your own photos and receipts. Take photos now and after damage.
5. Ask for a clear plan and timeline. Ask for updates in writing.
6. Keep copies of all forms and emails. Save every check and invoice.
7. Ask how the adjuster will use any contractors or vendors. Get everything in writing.

A good adjuster will help you with these steps. Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals will inspect your house for free and explain all steps in plain language.

What happens if an adjuster breaks the duty?

If an adjuster breaks the promise to act for you, there are steps you can take.

• You can stop the contract. Many contracts let you cancel in writing. Read the contract for details.
• You can file a complaint with the Florida insurance office.
• You can hire another adjuster to finish the job.
• You can talk to a lawyer about civil claims if you lost money.
• You can ask the state to check the adjuster’s license.

Keep records. The more proof you have, the stronger your case will be.

How Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals helps in Florida

Otero works across Florida. They act as public adjusters for homeowners. They explain state rules in plain words. They write clear estimates and file strong claims. They help you deal with insurance companies so you get fair pay for damage.

Why choose Otero?

• They offer a free initial inspection with no hidden fees.
• They act only for you and claim only to get you paid.
• They know Florida weather damage and common insurance issues.
• They will show you proof and explain each step.

You can call Otero at (850) 285-0405 or visit their site at https://oteroadjusting.com/. Their office is at 3105 W Michigan Ave, Pensacola, FL 32526.

How the contract should look

A clear contract protects you. The contract should be short and easy to read. It should say:

• The fee rate and how it will be paid.
• Who will sign documents or speak with the insurance company.
• What services the adjuster will provide.
• How long the contract lasts.
• How you can end the agreement.
• Any relationships with contractors or vendors.
• The ability to see all documents and proof.

Do not sign a blank contract. Do not sign a contract with confusing words. If you are unsure, ask for time and a simple explanation.

A simple checklist to hire a public adjuster

• License check: Are they licensed in Florida?
• Fee check: Is the fee written and clear?
• Contract check: Do you get a written contract?
• Proof check: Will they give copies of photos and reports?
• Communication check: Will you get updates in writing?
• Reference check: Did other Florida homeowners speak well of them?
• Inspection check: Will they inspect your home for free?

Otero gives you answers for all these checks and a free inspection to start.

Short FAQ in plain words

Q: Can a public adjuster help me in Florida after a hurricane?
A: Yes. The adjuster can inspect, document, and negotiate for you.

Q: Will I have to pay the adjuster if I do not get money?
A: Many adjusters do not get paid if you do not get money. Otero uses this approach. They only get paid when you do.

Q: Can an adjuster promise a certain payout?
A: No. The adjuster cannot promise exact numbers. The adjuster can show strong reasons and evidence to win more money for you.

Q: Can an adjuster work with a contractor I do not like?
A: The adjuster can suggest contractors. The adjuster must tell you about any ties. You can choose the contractor.

Q: How long will a claim take?
A: It depends on the damage, paperwork, and the insurance company. A good adjuster gives a plan and updates.

Little tips to make your claim stronger

• Take many photos of the damage from different angles.
• Save repair receipts and invoices.
• Keep track of temporary repairs and costs.
• Do not throw away damaged items until you talk to your adjuster.
• Make notes of who you spoke to and when. Note the name, time, and what they said.
• Ask your adjuster to explain every item in the estimate.

Simple words for complex ideas

You may hear big words like “liability,” “depreciation,” or “actual cash value.” Ask your adjuster to use simple words. A good adjuster will tell you what each word means and how it matters to your payout.

Example:

• Depreciation means less money for older items.
• Replacement cost means money to buy new parts or items.
• Actual cash value means old value after wear and tear.

Your adjuster should explain which one your policy uses and why.

How to work well with your adjuster

You should be part of the team. You bring facts about your home. The adjuster brings skill and paper work. Work as partners.

• Answer calls and emails in a timely way.
• Share photos and documents.
• Ask for clear steps and timelines.
• Keep copies of what the adjuster sends you.

Your team work will make claims faster and better.

Final thoughts and how to get started

You want someone who keeps their promise to you. You want honesty, clear facts, and strong help. A public adjuster who follows fiduciary duty will help you get the money you deserve. They will stand with you when insurance companies push back.

If you live in Florida and need help with storm damage, water damage, mold, roof leaks, or a small fire, consider Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals. They will inspect your home for free and explain the process in clear words. They only get paid when you do.

You can call Otero at (850) 285-0405 or visit https://oteroadjusting.com/. Their address is 3105 W Michigan Ave, Pensacola, FL 32526.

You do not have to face the claim alone. You can ask questions. You can ask for proof. You can ask for a written plan. You can ask for a free inspection. A good adjuster will help you feel safe and clear about the next steps.

If you want, make a list now of the questions you would ask. Keep it simple. Bring the list to your first meeting. That list will help you find an adjuster who truly acts in your best interest.