Public Adjusters in Virginia

A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents the policyholder’s interests in preparing, presenting, and negotiating first-party property insurance claims. Unlike an insurance company’s own adjuster, a public adjuster works exclusively for you.

Yes. Under Virginia law, a person must obtain a public adjuster license from the Virginia State Corporation Commission before engaging in the business of public adjusting. Engaging in public adjusting without a license is prohibited.

• Be at least 18 years old and of good reputation.
• Pass the Virginia public adjuster exam within 183 days prior to application.
• Apply to the Virginia State Corporation Commission in the prescribed form.
• Submit required documentation verifying honesty, character, and successful completion of other statutory requirements.

• Review and interpret your insurance policy.
• Inspect and document property damage thoroughly.
• Prepare and submit your insurance claim with all required documentation.
• Negotiate with the insurer to help secure a fair settlement.

Virginia does not impose a statewide fee cap on public adjusters outside of certain catastrophic disaster contexts. However, any fee arrangement should be reasonable and disclosed in writing in the contract.

• Adjuster’s full legal name and license number
• Business address and contact info
• Policyholder’s name and loss details
• Description of services and compensation terms
• Signatures of the adjuster and insured
• Right to rescind the contract within a certain period
• Required disclosures about representation and compensation

Yes. Non-resident adjusters can seek a Virginia public adjuster license, provided they meet Virginia’s requirements and comply with application rules set by the State Corporation Commission. Residency outside Virginia does not prevent licensure as long as statutory criteria are satisfied.

• License status
• Expiration
• Compliance and disciplinary history

• Public Adjuster: Works exclusively for you as the policyholder to maximize your settlement.
• Insurance Company Adjuster: Works for the insurance company’s interests and assesses the claim from the company’s perspective.