Frequently Asked Questions
About Public Adjusters in Austin & San Antonio, TX
Understanding Public Adjusters
What is a public insurance adjuster in Texas?
A public insurance adjuster in Texas is a licensed professional who works directly for YOU, not the insurance company. We serve as your advocate throughout the entire claims process to protect your best interests.
Any professional sent by an insurance company may have a conscious or subconscious bias toward helping the insurer, whether they admit it or not. Michael was an independent insurance adjuster for over four years and can tell you firsthand that they don’t bite the hand that feeds them. You paid your premium as an investment, and Mike will help you get the maximum return you deserve.
Will my insurance company drop me if I hire a public adjuster?
Insurance companies in Texas are not allowed to drop you for filing a claim related to a catastrophic event or natural disaster. Rates can increase for various reasons, and your insurance agent is typically the best resource for rate information.
Don’t be someone who receives an increased rate despite not filing a legitimate claim for covered damage. It would also be unfortunate to sell your property and pay retail pricing for repairs that should have been covered by your insurance policy.
What happens if you can’t get my claim approved?
There is no fee for no recovery. If Michael is unable to deliver the results you deserve, he will happily refer you to several qualified insurance attorneys who can take your case to the next level.
How does the public adjuster process work?
The process varies depending on your situation. Key factors include whether your claim is brand new with a pending insurance company inspection or if it has already been inspected and resulted in underpayment or denial.
Contact our office at (210) 487-8802 to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your specific circumstances and explain exactly how we can help.
Why do insurance companies deny or underpay claims?
Insurance companies are in business to earn profits. They make billions of dollars annually by denying or underpaying legitimate insurance claims. Whenever a claim is filed, they owe you money. They have everything to gain by paying you nothing or as little as possible.
Think about it: Are you allowed to pay whatever you think is fair when your premiums are due? Or do they set the price and expect you to pay it; otherwise, they won’t bind your coverage?
The internal guidelines and procedures followed by insurance adjusters have nothing to do with the agent who sold you your policy. Many wonderful agents get frustrated when the companies they represent don’t treat their customers fairly, putting them in difficult situations if those customers choose to take their business elsewhere.
How much does a public adjuster cost?
Michael works on a contingency basis, charging 10% of the final Replacement Cost Value (RCV) awarded by your insurance company. You pay nothing up front, and if we don’t increase your settlement, you owe nothing.
This is significantly less than litigation attorneys, who typically charge 30-40% of the final settlement and often take much longer to resolve claims. High attorney fees can sometimes leave insufficient funds for proper repairs, making attorneys best used as a last resort. A public adjuster is a solid investment, especially on disputed amounts of $30,000 and below.
Working with Michael Acerra
Where does your public adjuster serve?
Michael Acerra serves property owners throughout Central Texas, including San Antonio, Austin, New Braunfels, San Marcos, and surrounding communities. We have two convenient office locations in North San Antonio and Austin, making it easy to serve customers across the region.
Is it worth hiring a public adjuster?
The more damage your property receives, the more you should consider hiring a public adjuster. During high-stress situations, it’s easy to either go it alone or contact the first adjuster you find. However, trying to negotiate claims while managing family, work, and recovery can result in important details slipping through the cracks.
Choosing an experienced public adjuster in San Antonio or Austin can save you thousands of dollars. We strongly advise doing your research and selecting someone with proven expertise and a track record of results.
Why choose Michael Acerra?
Michael has a unique background that sets him apart:
- 5+ years in insurance and storm restoration
- Worked as insurance company adjuster—knows their tactics
- Licensed as both public adjuster and contractor
- MBA from Our Lady of the Lake University
- Settled thousands of claims across multiple states
- Level 2 certified in Xactimate software
This combination of insider knowledge, technical expertise, and negotiation skills consistently delivers maximum settlements for clients.
How long does the process take?
Most insurance claims are resolved within 3-9 months when working with a public adjuster, depending on claim complexity, damage extent, and insurance company cooperation.
We work diligently to expedite your claim while ensuring thorough evaluation, documentation, and negotiation to maximize your compensation.
Storm Damage & Emergency Claims
Have you been impacted by recent storms?
To everyone recently affected by severe weather in Austin, San Antonio, and surrounding areas, you have our deepest sympathies. Michael and our Central Texas team are here to assist you and provide the help you deserve.
Storm damage claims require immediate action. Contact us right away at (210) 487-8802 or schedule your free consultation online.
Why is timing critical?
Evidence can deteriorate quickly. The sooner you involve a public adjuster:
- Document damage before it worsens
- Meet all policy deadlines
- Prevent insurance company delays
- Maximize your final settlement
Don’t wait. Contact us immediately after property damage.