FAQ — Hail to the Queen Adjustments LLC

Question 1

What is a public adjuster?

Accepted Answer

A public adjuster is a licensed insurance professional who represents policyholders — not insurance companies — in the claims process. We assess your damage, prepare your claim, and negotiate directly with your insurer to ensure you receive the full settlement your policy entitles you to.

Question 2

What's the difference between a public adjuster and the insurance company's adjuster?

Accepted Answer

The insurance company's adjuster works for the insurance company. Their job is to settle your claim as quickly and cheaply as possible. A public adjuster works exclusively for you. We have no incentive to minimize your claim — in fact, the opposite is true.

Question 3

Do I need a public adjuster?

Accepted Answer

You're not required to hire one, but studies consistently show that policyholders who use public adjusters receive significantly higher settlements than those who don't. If your damage is substantial, your claim was denied, or you feel your settlement offer is too low, a public adjuster can make a major difference.

Question 4

How are you paid?

Accepted Answer

We work on a contingency basis — our fee is a percentage of your final settlement amount. If your claim is approved, you are responsible for paying your deductible. If your claim is not approved, you are responsible for any mitigation costs that were incurred. We will always obtain your full written authorization before performing any inspection or work.

Question 5

Is the free inspection really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our initial property inspection is free. We will walk you through exactly what we find and what your options are. We will obtain your full written authorization before performing any work or proceeding with your claim.

Question 6

How long does the claims process take?

Accepted Answer

Every claim is different. Straightforward claims with clear documentation can be resolved in a few weeks. More complex claims may take several months. We keep you informed at every step.

Question 7

What if my claim was already denied?

Accepted Answer

A denial is not the final word. Many denied claims can be successfully reopened, appealed, or re-negotiated with proper documentation and professional representation. Contact us — we'll review your denial at no charge.

Question 8

Can I still hire you if I already filed my claim?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. You can hire a public adjuster at any stage of the claims process — whether you've just filed, received a low offer, or had your claim denied.

Question 9

Will hiring a public adjuster cause problems with my insurance company?

Accepted Answer

No. You have a legal right to representation in the claims process. Insurance companies are accustomed to working with public adjusters.

Question 10

What types of damage do you handle?

Accepted Answer

We specialize in storm damage claims including hail damage, wind damage, fire and smoke damage, and water damage. We handle both residential and commercial property claims throughout the Chicagoland area.

Question 11

Do you work with all insurance companies?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with every insurance company operating in Illinois — from major national carriers like State Farm, Allstate, and Farmers to regional and specialty insurers. We also work with or without insurance.

Question 12

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We are based in Chicago at 4538 S McDowell, Chicago IL 60609, and serve the greater Chicagoland area and surrounding communities throughout Illinois.

Question 13

Do you offer emergency services?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer 24/7 emergency board-up, tarping, and mitigation services to protect your property from further damage after a storm or disaster. Call us immediately at 833-227-8336 if you need emergency assistance.

Question 14

What is ACV (Actual Cash Value)?

Accepted Answer

Actual Cash Value (ACV) is the value of your damaged property at the time of the loss, after accounting for depreciation. ACV settlements are typically lower than replacement cost settlements because depreciation is subtracted. Many policies start with an ACV payment and release the withheld depreciation once repairs are completed.

Question 15

What is RCV (Replacement Cost Value)?

Accepted Answer

Replacement Cost Value (RCV) is the amount it costs to repair or replace your damaged property with new materials of like kind and quality — without any deduction for depreciation. If you have an RCV policy, you typically receive an initial ACV payment, then the withheld depreciation is released once the work is completed and documented.

Question 16

What is recoverable depreciation?

Accepted Answer

Recoverable depreciation is the difference between the ACV payment and the full RCV amount that your insurance company withholds until repairs are completed. Once you finish the repairs and submit proof, your insurer releases this additional amount.

Question 17

What is a deductible?

Accepted Answer

A deductible is the amount you are responsible for paying out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Some policies have a separate, higher deductible specifically for wind and hail damage — often calculated as a percentage of your home's insured value. Always know your deductible before filing a claim.

Question 18

What is a proof of loss?

Accepted Answer

A proof of loss is a formal, sworn statement you submit to your insurance company documenting the details of your claim. Many policies require a proof of loss within a specific timeframe. We prepare and submit this document on your behalf.

Question 19

What does 'like kind and quality' mean?

Accepted Answer

'Like kind and quality' (LKQ) is the standard insurance companies use when determining what materials should be used to repair or replace damaged property. We advocate for materials that truly match what you had — including premium brands like IKO shingles and Royal siding.

Question 20

What is mitigation?

Accepted Answer

Mitigation refers to the steps taken immediately after a loss to prevent further damage — such as emergency board-up, roof tarping, water extraction, or drying. If your claim is approved, mitigation costs are typically covered. If your claim is not approved, you are responsible for those costs. We will always obtain your full written authorization before any mitigation work begins.

Question 21

What is subrogation?

Accepted Answer

Subrogation is the process by which your insurance company, after paying your claim, pursues the party responsible for the damage to recover what they paid. As a policyholder, you generally must cooperate with your insurer's subrogation efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Public Adjusters

Fees & Payment

The Claims Process

Services & Coverage

Insurance Terms Explained

Still Have Questions?