April 14, 2025

It’s amazing to me how often policyholders—especially those with significant investments—are treated more like adversaries than customers. I’m currently assisting a commercial property owner who holds multiple policies with the same insurer. You’d expect that kind of loyalty to be met with professionalism, responsiveness, and a genuine effort to resolve the claim fairly.

Unfortunately, that’s not what happened.

The insurance company turned the claim over to a large third-party administrator, who assigned an independent adjuster that clearly lacked even the most basic customer service skills. Instead of cooperation, the adjuster brought condescension, poor communication, and a complete disregard for the client’s concerns.

Now the policyholder is prepared to go to war. And while I’m always ready to advocate for my clients, this is a situation that never needed to reach this point. If the insurer had simply chosen an IA firm that knew how to treat people—with professionalism and respect—my involvement, and the potential for litigation if I can’t bring both sides together, could have been avoided.

Insurance companies like to talk about cutting costs and streamlining processes. Here’s an idea: start by investing in people who know how to deal with customers. It’s not only the right thing to do—it’s smart business.

Need Help with a Property Claim? If you feel like your insurance company isn’t treating you fairly, I’m here to help. Contact me at christopher.friedley@clfpa.com or call (888) 572-5372 for a consultation.

About the author 

Christopher L. Friedley

When Hurricane Katrina landed in Mississippi in 2005, my world changed forever. At the time, I didn’t even know what a public adjuster was—I only knew that the system felt unfair, and policyholders like my in-laws were left to fight an uphill battle. I became an insurance adjuster that year, working claims for insurance companies for the next 19 years. I thought I was doing the right thing yet over time, I saw too many policyholders facing the same frustrating battles, often unaware of their rights or how to fight back and claim a fairer settlement to restore their home after damage.

I knew I could make a bigger impact by advocating for the individuals, families, and business owners in my community—not for the insurers. In August 2024, I left my role at a global claims adjusting firm and launched my own public adjusting firm. Now, I use my insider knowledge to help homeowners and business owners navigate their claims, fight for what they’re owed, and regain control over their recovery.

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