In the wake of severe weather, homeowners across East Tennessee are often left staring at damaged roofs and wondering who to call first—the insurance company, a contractor, or someone else entirely. One name that often surfaces in these chaotic moments is the public adjuster, but most homeowners don’t know exactly when or why they should call one.
As Knoxville’s roofing storm damage experts, Litespeed Construction has helped hundreds of homeowners navigate insurance claims and roof replacements. In this guide, we’ll explain when to call a public adjuster, why it matters, and how roofing contractors like us can work alongside adjusters to make sure you get the maximum benefit from your insurance claim.
Key Takeaways
💡Call a public adjuster if your roof damage claim is denied or underpaid.
💡Get a roofing inspection first.
💡You only have a limited time to appeal or file a supplemental claim.
💡Public adjusters increase payouts.
Why Storm Damage is a Major Risk in Knoxville, TN
Tennessee experiences an average of 20 to 30 tornadoes annually (source: NOAA), and East Tennessee—including Knoxville—is prone to damaging wind gusts, hailstorms, and torrential rains. Roofing systems are often the first line of defense, making them highly vulnerable to:
- Shingle displacement
- Leaks and water intrusion
- Wind uplift
- Structural compromise
FEMA data shows that roofing claims represent over 40% of all residential storm damage insurance claims.
When to Call a Public Adjuster for Roofing Storm Damage
The phrase “when to call a public adjuster” should be top of mind when:
1. Your Claim Has Been Denied or Undervalued
Insurance companies are profit-driven. According to a Consumer Federation of America report, many homeowners are routinely underpaid by thousands of dollars—especially for roof damage. If your insurer says your damage is “cosmetic” or denies your claim altogether, it’s time to call a public adjuster.
2. The Damage Is Extensive and Costly
If your repair or replacement exceeds $10,000, you’re dealing with a major loss. Public adjusters understand building codes, depreciation rules, and can document your damages more thoroughly.
3. You Feel Intimidated or Unsure About Your Claim
Insurance policies are complex. Public adjusters interpret the legal jargon and manage all communications with your insurer, taking pressure off your shoulders.
4. Supplementing a Low Payout
Even if you’ve received a check, you may be eligible for more. Public adjusters can file supplemental claims if your initial payout doesn’t cover actual damages.
✔️ Pro Tip from Litespeed Construction: Never accept a lowball offer without a second opinion from a public adjuster and a reputable roofing contractor in Knoxville, TN.
Roofing Inspections: The First Step Before Calling a Public Adjuster
Before you even consider whether or not to call a public adjuster, have your roof professionally inspected.
At Litespeed Construction, we offer:
- Free post-storm inspections
- Drone footage and photographs
- Detailed written reports
- Moisture detection and decking evaluation
These materials are critical if you decide to work with a public adjuster, giving them the ammunition they need to negotiate a better settlement.
How Public Adjusters Increase Insurance Payouts
| Claim Type | Avg. Payout Without Adjuster | Avg. Payout With Public Adjuster | Increase (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Claims | $2,029 | $17,187 | +747% |
| Damage Claims (Non-Hurricane) | $1,391 | $6,232 | +348% |
This data clearly illustrates that knowing when to call a public adjuster can dramatically affect your financial outcome.
Local Laws and Deadlines You Should Know (Knoxville, TN)
In Tennessee, policyholders typically have 12 months from the date of loss to file a claim or dispute a decision. However, this can vary by policy. Homeowners must also adhere to Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance regulations when filing storm-related damage claims.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Public Adjuster
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Expert negotiation on your behalf | ❌ Charges a fee (typically 10%-20%) |
| ✅ Higher claim settlements | ❌ May delay payout slightly |
| ✅ Reduces stress and admin burden | ❌ Not always needed for small claims |
| ✅ Knowledge of local codes & insurance law | ❌ Some states have unlicensed adjusters – check credentials |
Why Homeowners Trust Litespeed Construction
As Knoxville’s storm damage experts, Litespeed Construction offers more than just repairs—we offer guidance. Our team works alongside public adjusters, ensures compliance with city codes, and documents damage with insurance-grade reporting.
We’re local, experienced, and we understand how storm damage claims really work in East Tennessee.
FAQs about When to Call a Public Adjuster
A licensed insurance claims expert who works on behalf of policyholders to negotiate better settlements.
Yes. Litespeed Construction regularly partners with licensed adjusters to help homeowners maximize their roof repair claims.
If your damage is significant, the insurer denies your claim, or you feel the settlement is too low—reach out right away.
Typically 10% to 20% of your final settlement. They usually work on a contingency basis—if you don’t get paid, they don’t either.
Yes, but it’s ideal to get a roof inspection first from a trusted contractor like Litespeed Construction.
Sometimes, but the increased payout usually outweighs the delay.
Litespeed’s team uses photographic evidence, wind maps, and historical weather data to confirm storm correlation.
Yes, but always verify their license via the Tennessee Department of Commerce.
Yes, public adjusters can help you file a supplemental claim if the initial payout was insufficient.
You do—from the settlement amount. Their fees are deducted after you receive funds.
