Public Adjusters in Ohio

A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents you (the policyholder) in preparing, presenting, and negotiating insurance claims. Their goal is to maximize your settlement and help you navigate the often complex insurance claims process.

Yes. In Ohio, any individual or business acting as a public insurance adjuster must hold an Ohio Certificate of Authority issued by the Ohio Department of Insurance. It’s unlawful to adjust or receive compensation for adjusting claims without this certificate.

• Be at least 18 years old and of good reputation.
• Pass the Ohio public insurance adjuster exam (Exam Series 11-38).
• Purchase a $1,000 surety bond payable to the State of Ohio.
• Apply for your Certificate of Authority with the Ohio Department of Insurance (paper or online via NIPR).

Yes. Non-resident applicants can apply for an Ohio public adjuster license but must have an active public adjuster license in their home state and provide the required $1,000 bond and supplemental form.

• Reviewing and interpreting your insurance policy.
• Assessing and documenting property damage.
• Preparing estimates and submitting claim documentation.
• Negotiating with your insurer to pursue the best settlement.

• You’ve suffered significant or complex property damage.
• Your insurer’s initial settlement seems too low.
• You want expert assistance with claims documentation and negotiation.

Ohio law doesn’t set a statewide public fee cap for public adjusters. Fees are negotiated and must be agreed upon in writing before work begins. Public adjusters typically work on a contingency basis — meaning they get paid a percentage of the settlement after you receive it.

• The services the adjuster will provide.
• The fee or compensation arrangement.
• How and when the adjuster will be paid.
• The adjuster’s Ohio Certificate of Authority information.