Why Are The Insurance Companies Trying To Lowball Me?

Are you getting a small check from your insurer and wondering why it feels so unfair?

Why Are The Insurance Companies Trying To Lowball Me?

You feel confused. You feel angry. You filed a claim and you expect a fair payment. The insurer sends an offer that seems too small. You wonder why they do that. This article explains the common reasons. It shows what you can do next in Florida. It tells you how a public adjuster can help.

What does “lowball” mean?

Lowball means the insurer gives you less money than you need to fix your home. The offer may not cover repairs. The offer may not include code upgrades. The offer may not pay for living costs while your home is fixed. Lowball is a tactic. It can slow your recovery.

Who makes the lowball decision?

An insurance company makes the offer. An in-house adjuster or a desk adjuster often creates the first number. The company uses software and rules to set the payment. The company may look at photos, short reports, or contractor estimates. The company may not visit your home in detail. The company may make a quick choice to protect its profit.

Why would an insurer try to lowball you?

Insurers aim to keep their profits. They pay claims from their money. They also set aside money for future losses. If they pay less now, their reported profit looks better. They face pressure from shareholders and managers. Low offers are one way to reduce payouts. Here are simple reasons they lowball:

• They want to save money.
• They use standard price lists that underpay local costs.
• They rely on limited inspections.
• They count on policyholders to accept quick offers.
• They hope you will not hire a public adjuster.

Common lowball tactics

Insurers use many tactics to lower payouts. You should know them. Here is a table that shows common tactics, what they look like, and what you can do.

Tactic	What it looks like	What you can do
Low initial offer	You get a small check fast.	Do not sign a full release. Ask for a breakdown. Get your own estimate.
Depreciation	They pay less for old items.	Show purchase receipts or replacement cost coverage. Ask for repair, not replace, if you prefer.
Underestimating repairs	They list fewer damaged items.	Take photos. Get contractor reports. Use a public adjuster.
Using cheap codes	They use low labor or material rates.	Provide local contractor prices and code upgrade costs.
Denying coverage for some damage	They claim damage came from wear and tear.	Gather proof of sudden damage. Get a professional opinion.
Partial payments	They pay part and then stall.	Request full explanation in writing. Hire a public adjuster.
Pressuring you to settle	They call to close the claim quickly.	Ask for written offer and closing terms. Do not sign under pressure.

How the claim process usually works in Florida

You need a clear picture of the steps. Florida rules may differ from other states. Here are the common steps in Florida:

1. You report loss to your insurer.
2. The insurer opens a claim number.
3. An adjuster contacts you or visits your property.
4. The adjuster inspects and documents damage.
5. The insurer prepares an estimate and an offer.
6. You accept, negotiate, or reject the offer.
7. If you reject, you can hire a public adjuster or start appraisal or litigation.

This process looks simple on paper. It often slows down. It often leads to disagreement on the value.

Timeline of a typical storm claim

You can use this simple timeline to track events. It helps you stay organized.

Step	Typical timing	Your action
Report claim	Day 0	Call insurer and write down time and name.
Initial inspection	Days 1-7	Take photos. Keep receipts for temporary repairs.
Adjuster estimate	Days 7-30	Ask for the estimate in writing. Get your own estimate.
First payment	Days 7-45	Do not sign final release for all repairs.
Negotiation	Days 30-90+	Push for full scope if underpaid. Hire public adjuster if stuck.

Signs the insurer is lowballing you

You can look for simple signs. If you see any, act quickly.

• The offer is much lower than contractor bids.
• The insurer refuses to pay code upgrades.
• The insurer excludes line items without clear reason.
• The insurer uses vague language in the offer.
• The insurer asks you to sign a full release for a small check.
• The insurer delays action after initial payment.

What are your rights in Florida?

You have rights. Florida law protects policyholders. You can hold the insurer to the policy terms. You can hire a public adjuster to represent you. You can file a complaint with the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation. You can use appraisal or file suit if needed. You must act within claim deadlines in your policy. You must also document time and damages.

What is a public adjuster?

A public adjuster represents you, the policyholder. The public adjuster reviews your policy and your claim. The public adjuster documents damage. The public adjuster writes a detailed estimate. The public adjuster negotiates with the insurer for more money. The public adjuster works for you, not for the insurance company. The public adjuster in Florida must hold a license.

What does a public adjuster do for you?

A public adjuster does many tasks that the insurer will not do for you.

• The adjuster inspects your home in detail.
• The adjuster records damage with photos and notes.
• The adjuster prepares a full loss estimate.
• The adjuster finds hidden damage that insurers miss.
• The adjuster explains policy coverages in plain words.
• The adjuster negotiates a fair settlement.
• The adjuster can help with documents for building permits and code upgrades.

Why hire a public adjuster in Florida?

A public adjuster helps you get the money you deserve. You get an advocate who knows Florida rules and local costs. The adjuster can push back on low offers. The adjuster can save you time and stress. The adjuster often recovers more than their fee. This increase in payment can cover repair costs and code upgrades.

When should you hire a public adjuster?

You should consider a public adjuster when:

• The damage is large or complex.
• The insurer offers a small amount.
• You see missing items in the adjuster report.
• You feel overwhelmed by paperwork.
• You need help with building code or permit costs.
• You need living expense help and the insurer denies it.

If you are unsure, call a public adjuster for a free inspection. Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals offers free initial inspections. They can tell you if a public adjuster can help.

How to document damage the right way

You must build clear proof. The proof helps you fight a low offer.

• Take photos of every damaged area.
• Shoot video that shows damage and sound.
• Save receipts for hotel, food, and repairs.
• Keep a list of damaged items with age and price.
• Keep all communication from the insurer.
• Get contractor estimates that show labor, materials, and permit costs.
• Keep a repair timeline with dates and names.

Here is a simple table of evidence and why it matters.

Evidence	Why it matters
Photos and video	Show extent of damage.
Receipts	Prove replacement costs and temporary repairs.
Contractor estimates	Show real local cost to repair.
Permits and code notes	Show extra costs required by law.
Communication records	Show insurer promises or denials.

How to talk to the adjuster

You must keep talk simple and clear. You should be polite. You must be firm. You should state facts and show evidence.

• Tell the adjuster when damage occurred.
• Show your photos and receipts.
• Ask for a written itemized estimate.
• Ask how the insurer calculated the offer.
• Do not sign a final release for all repairs until you get full payment.
• Ask for time to get your own estimate.

What to do if the initial offer is too low

You must act clearly and quickly.

1. Request a written breakdown of the offer.
2. Compare the offer to your contractor estimates.
3. Send the insurer photos and proof of costs.
4. Ask for reconsideration in writing.
5. Hire a public adjuster if the insurer refuses to increase pay.
6. File a complaint with Florida regulators if the insurer acts unfairly.

Do not sign a closing document that prevents you from seeking more money later.

Common insurer excuses and simple answers

Insurers use many excuses to justify low offers. You can respond in simple ways.

• Excuse: “This is wear and tear.”
  Your response: “This damage came from this storm on this date. I have photos from right after the storm.”

• Excuse: “We do not cover code upgrades.”
  Your response: “My local code requires this work. My contractor shows the permit and code cost.”

• Excuse: “We paid fair depreciation.”
  Your response: “I have receipts and replacement cost coverage. Please show math on depreciation.”

• Excuse: “We did a full estimate.”
  Your response: “Please provide the itemized estimate and the software rates you used.”

How to get a fair estimate

You must get estimates from local contractors. You should get more than one estimate. You should show local parts and labor prices. You should include permit costs. You should show code upgrades and matching materials. You must present these items to the insurer.

How appraisal works

If you and the insurer disagree, appraisal may resolve value disputes. Each party picks an appraiser. The appraisers pick an umpire. They review damage and estimates. Their decision can be binding if the policy allows it. Appraisal handles value, not coverage. You must still follow policy terms.

How long will a claim take in Florida?

Claims can vary by size and season. After a big hurricane, many claims create delays. Small claims may resolve in weeks. Large claims may take months. You must document everything and follow up often. A public adjuster will keep pressure on the insurer and speed the process.

How much does a public adjuster cost?

Public adjusters in Florida often work on contingency. They take a percentage of the recovered amount. The percentage varies by claim size and loss. The adjuster fee is often a fraction of the extra money they recover. You should ask for a written agreement that shows the fee structure. Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals only gets paid when you do. They provide a free initial inspection with no obligation.

Why hiring a public adjuster often increases your recovery

You get more money because a public adjuster:

• Finds hidden damage that insurers miss.
• Adds code upgrades and permit costs.
• Uses room-by-room, line-by-line estimates.
• Pushes back on undervalued line items.
• Negotiates with the insurer using experience and data.

Studies and industry reports show that public adjusters often recover much more than their cost. The extra money covers repairs and living costs. The public adjuster can also reduce your personal stress.

Why you should not sign a full release too early

A full release ends the claim. It may give you less than needed. You may find more damage after repairs start. You may need code upgrades that you did not know about. Do not sign a release until you have final funds for full repairs. If the insurer asks for early release, pause and get advice.

Examples of extra items insurers often miss

Insurers often miss items that add cost. You should check for these items in any offer.

• Roof decking or roof replacement underlayment.
• Code-required roof tear-off or secondary water barrier.
• Drywall behind baseboards or inside walls.
• Structural connections and framing repairs.
• Matching materials for siding, tile, or cabinets.
• Permits and local code upgrades.
• Mold testing and remediation after water leaks.
• Temporary housing and loss of use costs while you rebuild.

How Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals helps you in Florida

You can contact Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals if you need help. Otero serves homeowners across Florida. You get a licensed public adjuster who knows Florida rules. Otero performs a free initial inspection with no obligation. Otero documents all damage, creates a full estimate, and negotiates with the insurer. Otero only gets paid when you do. Otero works on claims of all sizes, including hurricane damage, water damage, mold, roof leaks, and kitchen fires.

Contact information:

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

How to choose a public adjuster

You must pick a qualified adjuster. Check these items:

• They must hold a Florida license.
• They must provide a written contract.
• They must explain fees and services clearly.
• They must offer references or past results.
• They should offer a free initial inspection.

Otero meets these points. You can call them for a free inspection. They will explain fees and steps in plain words.

What to expect when you hire Otero

Otero inspects your property. Otero documents every damaged area. Otero creates a detailed, room-by-room estimate. Otero submits a demand to the insurer. Otero negotiates for more funds. Otero coordinates with contractors when needed. Otero keeps you informed at each step.

How to prepare for the adjuster visit

You should prepare simple things before the adjuster arrives.

• Make a list of damaged items.
• Gather receipts and photos.
• Keep a list of temporary repairs and costs.
• Show the adjuster any contractor notes.
• Ask the adjuster to explain the next steps.

If you hire Otero, they will do this for you and help gather missing items.

What if the insurer still refuses to pay fairly?

You have options. You can file a complaint with the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation. You can demand appraisal if your policy allows it. You can hire a public adjuster to push your case. You can consult a lawyer who handles insurance claims. You must keep proof and follow deadlines.

Simple negotiation tips you can use

You can do some simple negotiation steps yourself.

• Ask for the insurer’s itemized estimate in writing.
• Show a clear contractor estimate side-by-side with their numbers.
• Point out specific missing items with photos and receipts.
• Request a reinspection if needed.
• Ask for a supervisor if you do not get answers.

If the insurer still resists, ask a public adjuster to take over.

How to spot shady practices

Some practices are unfair and may break rules. You should watch for:

• Pressure to sign a general release for a small check.
• Offers that drop sharply with no explanation.
• Changing adjusters without reason.
• Requests for hidden fees or payments to expedite claims.
• Insurer asking you to accept a non-itemized lump sum without breakdown.

If you see these signs, document them and contact a public adjuster or Florida regulators.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: Can the insurer change the offer after I accept payment?
A: If you sign a full release, you usually give up further rights. Do not sign until you have full funds to fix your home.

Q: Can a public adjuster increase my payout?
A: Yes. A public adjuster often finds items and costs the insurer missed. The adjuster negotiates for a higher settlement.

Q: Does hiring a public adjuster slow the claim?
A: A good adjuster often speeds the claim by pushing and organizing the case. They keep pressure on the insurer.

Q: Will the insurer retaliate if I hire a public adjuster?
A: The insurer may resist, but they must follow policy rules. A public adjuster helps enforce your rights.

Q: How soon should I call a public adjuster?
A: Call early if damage is large or if you see a low offer. Early involvement helps document hidden damage.

A simple plan you can follow if you think you were lowballed

1. Do not sign a final release.
2. Save all photos, receipts, and messages from the insurer.
3. Get at least one contractor estimate.
4. Request the insurer’s itemized estimate and depreciation math.
5. Hire a public adjuster, such as Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals, for a free inspection.
6. Let the adjuster negotiate and push the insurer for full payment.
7. If needed, move to appraisal or file a complaint with Florida regulators.

A short story about a client in Florida

You may like a small example. A family in Pensacola had roof and water damage after a storm. The insurer gave a quick small check that covered only part of the roof. The family felt the check was too small. The family called a public adjuster. The adjuster found water damage behind ceilings and code-related roof tear-off costs. The adjuster negotiated a larger settlement. The family used the money to fix the home. The adjuster fee was a small part of the extra funds the family recovered.

What you gain by calling Otero now

You gain a professional who knows Florida and local costs. Otero gives a free inspection. Otero shows you what the insurer may have missed. Otero can help you decide if you should hire a contractor or move to appraisal. Otero only gets paid when you do. You risk little and you stand to gain much.

Contact:

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

Final advice

You deserve a fair payment to fix your home. Insurers sometimes offer low numbers to protect profit. You can act. You can document damage and ask for clear math. You can get local contractor estimates. You can hire a licensed public adjuster. You can call Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals for a free inspection in Florida. Do not sign away your rights for a small check. Stand up for your home and your family. Your claim matters. Your home matters.