Finding a licensed public adjuster takes more than a quick Google search. Homeowners in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania should check their state’s official insurance regulator before trusting any adjuster with their claim. Each state runs its own license lookup tool, and these tools are the fastest way to confirm someone is real and allowed to work.
At a glance:
- New York homeowners can use the Department of Financial Services’ “Who We Supervise” tool to confirm a license
- New Jersey and Pennsylvania both run searchable license databases that show status, type, and license number
- Unlicensed people, including some contractors and roofers, sometimes offer to negotiate claims without proper credentials
Why state license lookup tools matter
Each state has its own rules. In New York, public adjusters must hold a license from the Department of Financial Services before doing any work. In New Jersey, the Department of Banking and Insurance Licensee Search lets you type in a name and see if the license type says “Public Adjuster” and if the status is active. Pennsylvania’s Insurance Department offers a “Find Insurance Professional” search where you can look up a name, license number, or location. These tools exist so homeowners do not have to guess.
Questions to ask before you sign anything
Once you confirm someone holds a valid license, ask more questions. Get their full legal name, business name, state license number, and years of experience. Ask for references from past clients. Request the fee structure in writ