Public Adjusters in New Mexico

A public adjuster is a licensed insurance professional who represents the policyholder in preparing, presenting, and negotiating property insurance claims. They help you interpret your policy, document damage, prepare estimates, and communicate with your insurer to pursue a fair settlement. Public adjusters do not work for insurance companies — they work for you.

Yes. New Mexico law requires anyone acting as a public adjuster to hold a valid adjuster license issued by the New Mexico Office of Superintendent of Insurance (OSI). Adjusters cannot legally represent insureds or negotiate on their behalf without a license.

• Be at least 18 years old and of good reputation.
• Submit a completed application to the New Mexico Office of Superintendent of Insurance.
• Successfully pass the New Mexico adjuster exam (unless exempt).
• Submit fingerprints and background check results.
• File a $10,000 surety bond with the OSI.

• Interpret your insurance policy (coverage, limits, exclusions).
• Document and estimate property damage (including structural and contents).
• Prepare and submit detailed claim documentation to your insurer.
• Negotiate settlements to help ensure you receive fair compensation.

• They work for you, not the insurance company.
• You are not required to hire a public adjuster.
• The adjuster’s compensation is often a percentage of the claim settlement (unless otherwise agreed).
• You may contact your insurer, your attorney, or other representatives regarding your claim.
• You have the right to rescind the contract within three business days after signing.

New Mexico does not have a statewide fixed fee cap for public adjuster compensation for most claims. However, during a catastrophic disaster, the law may lower the allowable fee cap to 10% of the claim settlement to protect consumers in large-scale events.

• A public adjuster advocates for you, the policyholder.
• An insurance company adjuster evaluates your claim on behalf of the insurer.

• You’ve suffered significant or complex property damage.
• The insurer’s initial settlement offer seems too low.
• You want professional help documenting losses and negotiating your claim.

Yes. New Mexico offers non-resident adjuster licenses under reciprocity if your home state has similar licensing requirements. You typically just need to submit the application and meet bond/qualification requirements.