Frequently Asked Questions

A public adjuster is a licensed insurance professional who works exclusively on behalf of policyholders — not insurance companies. When you file a property damage claim, your carrier sends its own adjuster to assess the loss. That adjuster works for the carrier. A public adjuster works for you, ensuring your claim is properly documented, valued, and negotiated to reflect the full extent of your loss under your policy terms.

Your insurance company's adjuster is employed by the carrier. Tristar's adjusters are retained by you and work exclusively in your interest. We conduct our own independent inspection, prepare our own scope of loss, and negotiate with the carrier to ensure your settlement reflects the true cost of restoring your property.

Tristar works on a contingency-only basis. Our fee is 15% of the gross settlement amount. There are no retainers, hourly charges, or upfront costs. If we do not recover a settlement for you, you owe us nothing.

Tristar handles claims of $250,000 and above. Complex commercial and high-value residential losses require dedicated expertise, thorough documentation, and sustained negotiation effort. If your loss is below this threshold, we recommend contacting your state's Department of Commerce & Insurance for adjuster referrals.

The timeline depends on loss complexity, carrier responsiveness, and whether disputes arise. Straightforward claims may resolve in weeks to a few months. Complex commercial losses with coverage issues, engineering assessments, or carrier disputes can take several months or longer.

Tristar handles storm damage, fire and smoke damage, water and flood damage, and structural damage. We represent both commercial and residential property owners and engage engineers, contractors, and forensic accountants as needed for complex claims.

In many cases, yes. If you believe a claim was undervalued or additional damage was discovered after settlement, Tristar can review whether there are grounds to reopen the claim or file a supplemental claim.

Tristar is licensed and operates throughout Tennessee, from Memphis to Knoxville and everywhere in between. We also serve property owners in Kentucky and Mississippi from our Franklin, Tennessee office.

If the loss is substantial, it is often helpful to call as early as possible. Tristar can help you think through documentation, timing, emergency mitigation records, and what to preserve before the carrier inspection. You remain responsible for complying with policy notice requirements.

Yes. Many clients call after the first inspection, after receiving a low estimate, or after a coverage dispute begins. Earlier involvement is easier, but Tristar can still review the file, inspect the property, and determine whether additional documentation or negotiation is warranted.

Yes. Depending on the loss, Tristar may coordinate with qualified contractors, engineers, moisture specialists, restoration experts, inventory professionals, or forensic accountants to support the claim with credible technical evidence.

A policyholder has the right to obtain professional help. Tristar approaches carriers professionally, with organized documentation and clear communication. The goal is not conflict for its own sake; the goal is a properly documented and fairly evaluated claim.

No. Tristar is a public adjusting firm, not a law firm. We help document, present, and negotiate property insurance claims. If legal advice or litigation is needed, we may recommend that you consult qualified counsel.