Is RV insurance required in Georgia?

Yes for motorized RVs in Georgia (liability matches state auto minimums). Travel trailers borrow from the towing vehicle. Specialty RV coverage strongly recommended for physical damage and personal effects.

Why does my policy have more than one deductible?

A policy commonly carries a flat deductible for most claims and a separate percentage-based wind and hail deductible in storm-exposed states like Georgia.

How do I cancel my insurance policy?

Cancellation is a written request to the carrier with a specific date, usually 14 days notice. Most carriers refund unused premium pro rata. Never cancel before the new policy is in force.

What commercial coverage do Georgia businesses need beyond a business package policy and general liability?

Beyond a business package policy and general liability, the most common Georgia specialty commercial needs are commercial umbrella, inland marine, cyber, and management liability.

Do I have to use the carrier's preferred contractor?

Usually no. Most policies let you choose any licensed contractor, though preferred shops have their own benefits.

General FAQs

What is the difference between a public adjuster and an attorney?

All FAQs

Quick answer: Public adjusters negotiate property claim values for a percentage. Attorneys handle coverage disputes and litigation.

A public adjuster and an attorney both help with an insurance claim, but they do different jobs. A public adjuster is a licensed claims professional you hire to document, value, and negotiate your property claim with the carrier. An attorney handles legal disputes, such as when a carrier wrongfully denies a claim or you need to file a lawsuit. The simplest way to draw the line: a public adjuster works the numbers, while an attorney works the law.

What does a public adjuster do on a property claim?

A public adjuster represents you, not the insurance company. They inspect the damage, prepare a detailed estimate, and push for a higher settlement than the carrier's own adjuster first offered. They typically charge a percentage of the claim payout, often 10 to 20 percent in Georgia. They are most useful on large, complex property claims, like major fire or storm damage, where the dollars are significant and the estimate is contested.

When does a property claim need an attorney instead of a public adjuster?

An attorney becomes the right call when there is a legal fight rather than just a dollar dispute. Examples include a denied claim you believe should be covered, a carrier acting in bad faith, or a coverage question that turns on how the policy language is interpreted. Attorneys can file suit and represent you in court. Public adjusters cannot.

Can you use both a public adjuster and an attorney on the same claim?

Yes, and sometimes a claim starts with a public adjuster and escalates to an attorney if the carrier refuses to move after negotiation. Each professional carries a separate fee, so the combined cost eats into the net recovery. For example, a homeowner in Columbus has a kitchen fire, and the carrier offers $35,000. A public adjuster re-estimates the smoke and structural damage at $58,000 and negotiates the carrier up to $52,000. The adjuster's fee at 15 percent is about $7,800, leaving the homeowner well ahead of the original offer. If instead the carrier had denied the fire claim outright as excluded, the homeowner would more likely need an attorney to challenge that legal decision.

How much does hiring a public adjuster or attorney cost in Georgia?

Public adjusters in Georgia typically charge 10 to 20 percent of the final claim settlement. Attorneys handling insurance disputes often work on contingency, meaning they take a percentage of the recovery rather than an upfront fee. For example, an attorney taking 33 percent of a $90,000 additional recovery earns $29,700, which still leaves the policyholder far ahead of what the carrier originally offered. Both arrangements mean you pay only when the professional delivers additional recovery, though the exact structure varies by case.

Is there a way to handle a disputed claim without hiring outside help?

Sometimes, because a strong independent agent can advocate during the claim and resolve the issue without extra fees. Before hiring anyone, a conversation about your specific situation often clarifies which professional fits. A free coverage review confirms whether your coverage is solid before a loss occurs, and a licensed advisor can help if a claim stalls or the carrier's estimate seems low.