Public Adjusters in Maryland

Yes. In Maryland, a “public adjuster” must be licensed by the Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA) under Insurance Code Title 10, Subtitle 4.

• Reviewing your insurance policy and identifying coverages and exclusions.
• Inspecting, documenting, and estimating damage (residential or commercial).
• Preparing and submitting the claim to your insurer.
• Negotiating settlement terms with the insurer.

• Be in writing and clearly titled “Public Adjuster Contract”.
• Contain the adjuster’s name, business address, license number, description of services, fee/compensation details, and a signature from both parties.
• Include that the insured has a three-business-day right of cancellation after signing

• The fee is negotiable between you and the adjuster.
• The contract must clearly state the fee amount or percentage.
• If the insurer pays the policy limit within 72 hours of loss notification, the adjuster may not receive a commission based on a percentage—only “reasonable compensation” based on work performed.

• You’ve sustained substantial or complex damage (large fire, major storm, water intrusion, commercial loss).
• You suspect your insurer’s initial offer is too low or the claim process is overwhelming.
• You’d prefer an advocate to handle the detailed documentation and negotiations on your behalf.

You can verify a public adjuster’s license through the Maryland Insurance Administration’s license lookup portal, check their license number, status (active/inactive), and any disciplinary actions.