The essential role of a public insurance adjuster
When a major loss occurs—a fire, explosion, structural collapse or natural disaster—life can change in an instant. Tasks pile up, decisions need to be made, and policyholders often find themselves trying to navigate a complex and demanding insurance claims process on their own.
This is where a public insurance adjuster, also known as a policyholder’s adjuster, comes in. This independent professional works exclusively on behalf of the policyholder: reviewing coverage, assessing losses, negotiating and representing your interests when dealing with your insurance company.
At Expertises LMS, our role is to provide independent, thorough representation and work toward a fair settlement that reflects each client’s covered losses. We assist people affected by major losses throughout Quebec, drawing on more than 65 years of experience in major loss claims adjustment.
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What is a public insurance adjuster?
A public insurance adjuster is a trained professional who represents the policyholder rather than the insurance company following a loss. For information about this role in Quebec, see the Chambre de l’assurance de dommages resource on adjusters hired by policyholders (in French).
Their role is to assess the extent of the damage, calculate losses and represent the client’s interests throughout the claims process. The distinction matters:
- The insurer’s claims adjuster works on behalf of your insurance company.
- The public insurance adjuster works independently on behalf of the policyholder.
At Expertises LMS, this distinction guides everything we do. Our mission is to represent the public, protect policyholders’ interests and pursue compensation that reflects the losses covered by their policies. We approach every file with technical care and an understanding of the people affected.
When should you hire a public insurance adjuster?
Getting advice from a public insurance adjuster early after a major loss can be valuable. Decisions made at the beginning can influence how the claim develops. Seeking that advice should not delay notifying your insurer or taking urgent steps to protect people and property.
Consider contacting a public insurance adjuster:
- As soon as possible after a major loss, for guidance during the initial stages of the claim;
- When there is significant structural damage or a total loss;
- When the loss affects a residential, commercial, industrial or institutional property;
- If you want help avoiding mistakes or incomplete assessments;
- When damaged property has a high value and every detail matters.
At Expertises LMS, we work promptly to document the scene, preserve evidence and establish a clear approach to the claim. Early involvement helps us document losses and support your interests from the start.
The benefits of hiring a public insurance adjuster
Independent, comprehensive expertise
A public insurance adjuster represents the policyholder independently of the insurer. The objective is to pursue the fairest possible settlement based on facts, evidence and a thorough understanding of insurance policies and property values.
At Expertises LMS, each file is examined in depth, including the building structure, contents, material values, reconstruction costs, indirect losses and logistical impacts.
Representation exclusively for policyholders
Unlike the insurer’s adjuster, we do not work for the insurer. Our mandate is clear: represent your interests at every stage. You have an independent representative by your side, working toward fair compensation for covered losses.
A fair, well-documented claim
Our team’s claims adjusters understand damage assessment and settlement procedures:
- We compare the value of the losses with the coverage provided by the policy.
- We document damage in detailed reports with supporting cost estimates.
- We negotiate directly with insurers to address potential undervaluation.
Consistent, personal support
Experiencing a major property loss is distressing. That is why Expertises LMS takes an empathetic, personal approach. We explain each stage, answer your questions and remain available from the opening of the file to its completion.
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The stages of comprehensive claims support
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Communication with the insurance company
Discussions, supporting explanations and presentation of the complete claim file.
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Insurance policy review
Review of coverage, exclusions and specific conditions.
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Comprehensive loss assessment
Detailed calculation of the value of damaged belongings, materials and structures.
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Site inspection
Careful on-site examination and documentation of the damage.
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Preparation of the assessment report
A detailed report that supports the claim and settlement negotiations.
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Settlement negotiation
Supporting the amounts claimed and working toward a fair agreement.
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Follow-up and file closure
Review of the final payment and continued support through completion of the claim.
The types of major losses we handle
Has your property been damaged by fire? Learn about our public insurance adjuster services for fire claims in Quebec.
Expertises LMS specializes in major losses, including:
- Fires affecting residential, commercial, industrial or institutional properties;
- Accidental explosions;
- Structural collapses.
These events require technical understanding and extensive field experience. Our public insurance adjusters have the training to assess major losses and manage complex files. We do not handle water damage claims.
Why choose Expertises LMS?
- More than 65 years of experience in major loss claims adjustment;
- Service throughout Quebec;
- A free consultation to discuss your situation and insurance policy;
- A team of independent public insurance adjusters working exclusively for policyholders;
- A personal, transparent and thorough approach;
- A reputation built on representing policyholders’ interests and pursuing fair settlements.
At Expertises LMS, we believe that everyone affected by a major loss deserves representation from an independent, knowledgeable professional with integrity.
Why representation by a public insurance adjuster matters
After a major loss, you do not have to navigate the claims process alone. A public insurance adjuster can be your ally, representative and advocate.
By choosing Expertises LMS, you gain an independent, experienced team dedicated to supporting policyholders throughout Quebec. Our commitment is to help you regain a sense of control, clarify the steps ahead and work toward a fair settlement under your policy.
After a major loss, you deserve support from a public insurance adjuster who works for policyholders.
Covered losses and LMS fees
We work to document and pursue all losses covered by your insurance policy. Compensation depends on the coverage, terms and limits that apply to your claim.
The initial consultation is free. If you retain us, LMS’s fees are deducted from the insurance settlement paid at the end of the settlement process, as set out in the written engagement agreement. You are responsible for these fees. Take time to understand the services included and the payment terms before signing.
In past claims handled by LMS, additional settlement amounts obtained have offset our fees. Results vary from case to case; this outcome is not a guarantee for your claim.
Find information for your type of loss
The information to document varies with the building, affected property and interrupted activity. Explore our pages on explosion claims, structural collapse claims and major business property losses.
What should I prepare to explain my situation?
Share the date of the loss, property type, steps already taken and available documents. A clear summary helps establish the current state of the claim before reviewing the details.