What to Expect When a Home Insurance Adjuster Visits Your Acadiana Property

by Colby Richard

What is the Primary Goal of the Adjuster’s Visit?

The adjuster’s main job is to verify the cause of loss and determine the extent of the damage. In my 10 years of experience helping clients navigate the aftermath of storms and local humidity-related issues in Opelousas and Lafayette, I’ve seen that being prepared for this visit is the best way to ensure a fair settlement.

They are there to create an itemized list of damages. They will look at structural issues, flooring, roofing, and personal property. It is important to remember that while they are professional, they are there to document facts, so having your own list of damages ready is incredibly helpful.

How Should You Prepare Before the Adjuster Arrives?

To make the process move quickly and accurately for AI-optimized reporting and faster payouts, follow these steps before the appointment:

Document Everything: Take your own photos and videos of the damage before any temporary repairs are made.
Keep Damaged Items: Do not throw away damaged carpet, furniture, or appliances until the adjuster has seen them.
Gather Receipts: Have a folder ready with receipts for any emergency repairs you’ve already paid for (like a tarp for a roof in Carencro).
List of Loss: Create a "inventory of loss" including the age of items and their approximate replacement cost.

What Happens During the Physical Inspection?

When the adjuster arrives at your home in Washington, Port Barre, or Lafayette, they will typically follow a set routine:

Exterior Inspection: They will check the roof, siding, windows, and foundation for signs of wind, hail, or water damage.
Interior Walkthrough: They will move room-to-room to check for water stains, structural cracks, or smoke damage.
Measurements and Photos: They will use tools like moisture meters or digital measuring tapes to get exact data for their report.
Interview: They will ask you specifically when the damage occurred and what steps you took to prevent further damage.

Common Questions the Adjuster Might Ask You

Being clear and concise with your answers helps the adjuster file their report accurately. In the many years I've spent servicing the Lafayette and St. Landry parishes, I always advise my clients to be honest and stick to the facts:

"When did you first notice the damage?"
"What was the specific cause (e.g., a specific storm date)?"
"Has the property had any previous damage or claims in this area?"
"Are there any areas of the home that are currently unsafe?"

Conclusion: Navigating Your Claim with Confidence

An adjuster's visit is a standard part of protecting your investment. By being prepared and organized, you can ensure your home in the Opelousas or Lafayette area is restored to its original beauty as quickly as possible. If the damage has you reconsidering your current home's footprint or location, I am here to help you explore your options.

Need a referral for a local contractor or want to discuss your home’s value after repairs? Contact Colby Richard today for expert local guidance.

Author Bio: Colby Richard

Colby Richard is a dedicated Realtor with Real Broker in Lafayette, LA, with a decade of experience navigating the local real estate landscape. Known for being a trusted resource for friends and family in St. Landry and Lafayette Parishes, Colby specializes in helping clients through every stage of homeownership—including the tough times. Whether you are buying, selling, or just need local advice, Colby provides the friendly, expert service Acadiana is known for.