When a storm, fire, or frozen pipe damages your home or business, your first instinct is to call your insurance company. You expect help, answers, and a quick resolution. But too often, what follows is stress, confusion, and frustration. Many Michigan homeowners and business owners don’t realize they have the option to have someone on their side during the claims process. A public adjuster is the only adjuster who works exclusively for you, not the insurance company. Having an expert on your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your claim. Unfortunately, most people don’t learn they have the option to hire a public adjuster until it is too late.
The Insurance Company’s Adjuster Isn’t Yours
Insurance companies send their own adjusters to inspect property damage and to write estimates for the repair costs. These professionals might seem helpful, but their responsibility and loyalty are to the company that pays their salary. Their goal is to settle your claim in the most cost effective way and to minimize their company’s financial exposure.
That doesn’t mean they are always out to shortchange you, but it does mean they are not focused on maximizing your claim. A public adjuster, like the team at Up Front Settlements, will always make you their number one responsibility. We represent you, the policyholder. We carefully read your policy, document the damage in detail, and negotiate directly with the insurance company to make sure you receive what you are entitled to.
Why Waiting Can Hurt Your Claim
By the time many people call us, they have already filed their claim and received a disappointing settlement offer. Some have started repairs before the damage was fully documented, or they have accepted an initial offer without realizing it was not enough to fully repair their property and return it to pre-loss condition. The further you move forward without the assistance of the public adjuster, the harder it becomes to negotiate a full and just settlement that maximizes the payout.
Calling a public adjuster early helps you avoid costly mistakes. We know what evidence to gather, which policy details matter, and how to communicate effectively with the insurer. Early involvement often leads to faster settlements and fewer disputes. It can also mean thousands more in compensation that you would otherwise leave on the table.
Common Mistakes Homeowners and Business Owners Make
It’s easy to make innocent mistakes during the claims process, especially when you’re under stress. Some people clean up before taking photos or throw out damaged items needed as key evidence to fully document your claim. Others assume the insurance company will automatically include all coverages in their estimate.
We’ve seen Michigan homeowners lose out on temporary housing benefits, and the potential for “cash outs” on their personal property. We’ve also seen business owners miss business interruption coverage because they didn’t know it was available under their policy. These are the moments when having a public adjuster on your side can completely change the financial outcome of your claim.
How a Public Adjuster Works for You
At Up Front Settlements, our job is to make sure you don’t have to face your insurance company alone. We review your policy line by line, inspect the property with precision, and prepare the documentation your insurance company expects to see. We handle the back-and-forth communication and keep you updated every step of the way.
Our team focuses on finding every possible source of compensation within your policy. We take the time to explain what’s happening, so you understand your options and feel confident about every decision.
Experience You Can Trust
Our founder, Ed Benavides, spent more than 20 years working for some of the top insurance companies, before starting Up Front Settlements. In 2014, when a tornado destroyed his own home, he learned firsthand how difficult and emotional the claims process can be. That experience and his knowledge of the claims process fuel his passion for helping others get the fair treatment they deserve.
When you work with our team, you’re not just hiring a professional; you’re gaining an advocate who knows exactly how the system works and how to use that knowledge to your benefit.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
The best time to call a public adjuster is right after the loss occurs. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, water damage, fire, or another disaster, having professional representation from the start can make all the difference.
If your home or business has been damaged, don’t try to handle the insurance company alone. Contact Up Front Settlements today at 248-841-5674 to talk with a Michigan public adjuster who will protect your interests and help you secure the settlement you deserve.