General Property Adjusting
What does a Pilot catastrophe property adjuster do?
Our adjusters respond quickly to events, usually arriving within 48 hours. They work with policyholders to assess their losses and pay for covered losses in the proper amount. This involves initial contact with the policyholders and setting up appointments, assessing the damage, writing an estimate, documenting all activities associated with a claim, and providing excellent customer service through the entire claims process. Some of our adjusters provide technical support and supervision in the field. Upon occasion, our adjusters work non-catastrophe claims and may also staff an office on a temporary basis.
What are the qualifications for becoming a Pilot property adjuster?
Experienced adjusters are preferred. However, a background in construction, home inspection, or restoration can provide an excellent foundation. Computer proficiency is a must, and interpersonal skills are highly desirable. For those without an appropriate background, we look for a good attitude and willingness and ability to learn. Pilot can direct those people to training venues.
You must be able to provide your own transportation and equipment. Adjusters are responsible for their living expenses while deployed.
Does Pilot provide any training for new adjusters?
Yes, on a limited basis. We conduct an annual technical training program for auto adjusters and Xactimate classes. Most of our current training is for the more experienced adjusters.
What is it like "in the field"?
As the word "catastrophe" implies, working conditions are rarely optimum. Major events like hurricanes can cause damage ranging from substantial to devastating. Being deployed to such an event is a seven-day-a-week job until all the claims are closed. We are there to help people get back on their feet, so time becomes critical. In some instances, our adjusters have had to stay more than an hour away from their working area because housing was unavailable. Communication systems are often damaged or destroyed, creating additional difficulties. Affected areas are usually covered in debris, which makes navigating a problem. Because of all these circumstances, Pilot adjusters need to be resourceful, reliable, and organized.
How long can I expect to be deployed to an event?
Duration of deployment varies depending on time of year, location of storm and type of event (hail, flood, hurricane, etc.) Depending on the size and severity of the storm, 2-3 weeks or longer. In some instances, Pilot adjusters will be onsite for months. Our adjusters must be prepared to work long hours with no time off for the duration of their deployment.
Can I stay busy all year long working property claims?
Pilot is committed to providing our adjusters opportunities to succeed in this industry. We must caution our new adjusters, though, that a number of factors that affect deployment and income vary from year to year. There is no "average year." Many of these same factors will also affect how quickly a new adjuster gets deployed.
What estimating software program does a property adjuster have to know?
Some of our clients require Xactimate; others require Integriclaim. Adjusters must use the estimating software required by the client to whose event he or she has been deployed.
Are there certifications that I must pass before I can be deployed by Pilot as a property adjuster?
Most of our clients require either a certification or a rating in order to be deployed to their events. Pilot either sponsors the certification or provides assistance in helping our adjusters meet the necessary requirements.
Do I need an adjuster’s license to work as a property adjuster?
Yes. For most deployments, you need to be licensed in your resident state first (if a license is available). There are other states that will increase your deployment opportunities if you hold those states' licenses.