Public adjusters in Georgia: fees, contracts and deadlines
On this page
You can hire a public adjuster in Georgia, and anyone acting as one must hold a public adjuster license from the Commissioner of Insurance.
A Georgia public adjuster can charge by the hour, a flat rate or a percentage, but the total cannot be more than 33.3% of the insurance settlement and cannot be unreasonable. A percentage fee is not allowed when the insurer pays or commits to pay the policy limit within 72 hours of the loss being reported.
33.3%
most a public adjuster can charge on a standard claim
3 business days
to cancel a public adjuster contract
60 calendar days
for the insurer to accept or deny
Each number is explained, with its source, in the sections below.
Can I hire a public adjuster in Georgia?
You can hire a public adjuster in Georgia, and anyone acting as one must hold a public adjuster license from the Commissioner of Insurance.
Georgia licenses public adjusters under Title 33, Chapter 23 of the state code. Since July 1, 2021 a public adjuster must also use a contract form approved by the Commissioner before working with consumers.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.1(a) (show the source wording)
The source says
“No person may act or hold himself or herself out to be a public adjuster in this state unless such person holds a public adjuster license issued by the Commissioner.”Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened
Georgia OCI, Licensed Adjusters, Public Adjusters, Counselors & Surplus Lines Brokers (show the source wording)
The source says
“Effective July 1, 2021, all Public Adjusters working in Georgia must have their contract pre-approved by the Commissioner prior to working with consumers.”Read it at the source (opens in a new tab)
- Check a licence
- Official licence lookup
- File a complaint
- Consumer complaint form
- Consumer line
- (800) 656-2298
What can a public adjuster charge in Georgia?
A Georgia public adjuster can charge by the hour, a flat rate or a percentage, but the total cannot be more than 33.3% of the insurance settlement and cannot be unreasonable. A percentage fee is not allowed when the insurer pays or commits to pay the policy limit within 72 hours of the loss being reported.
No separate fee cap for catastrophe or emergency claims was found in O.C.G.A. §§ 33-23-43 through 33-23-43.10.
- The total fee cannot be more than 33.3% of the insurance settlement, and it cannot be unreasonable.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.3(a) (show the source wording)
The source says“A public adjuster may not charge the insured an unreasonable fee, and the total commission received shall not exceed 33.3 percent of the amount of the insurance settlement of the claim.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - The fee can be hourly, a flat rate, a percentage of what the insurer pays, or another method.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.3(a) (show the source wording)
The source says“consisting of an hourly fee, a flat rate, a percentage of the total amount paid by an insurer to resolve a claim, or another method of compensation”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - If the insurer pays or commits in writing to pay the policy limit within 72 hours after the loss is reported, the adjuster cannot take a percentage fee.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.3(b) (show the source wording)
The source says“on which the insurer, not later than 72 hours after the date on which the loss is reported to the insurer, either pays or commits in writing to pay to the insured the policy limit of the insurance policy”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - In that policy-limit case the adjuster can only charge reasonable pay based on time spent and expenses.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.3(b) (show the source wording)
The source says“A public adjuster is entitled to reasonable compensation from the insured for services provided by such adjuster on behalf of the insured, based on the time spent on a claim that is subject to this Code section and expenses incurred”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - The contract cannot let the adjuster take the whole fee out of the first insurance check or collect a percentage of money the insurer has not paid yet.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(c)(3) (show the source wording)
The source says“allows a public adjuster to collect the entire fee from the first check issued by an insurance company rather than as a percentage of each check issued by an insurance company”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - Claim payments must name you as a payee and need your signature, apart from the fee you pay the adjuster.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.3(c) (show the source wording)
The source says“Require the written signature and endorsement of the insured on the payment draft or check.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - A public adjuster who accepts an appointment from the insurer on a claim cannot charge you a fee on that claim.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43(c)(5) (show the source wording)
The source says“A licensed public adjuster shall not charge a claimant a fee for adjusting a claim when he or she is appointed by the insurer for that specific claim or purpose and the appointment is accepted by the public adjuster”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened
What must the contract say?
The contract must be in writing on a form approved by the Commissioner, titled "Public Adjuster Contract", and state the fee and the adjuster's license number. The law gives you three business days to cancel, whether or not the contract says so.
Your right to cancel: 3 business days. You must cancel in writing, mailed or delivered to the adjuster at the address in the contract within three business days. Email or fax to the address or number named in the contract counts. The adjuster then has 15 business days to return anything of value you gave.
- The adjuster must use a written contract form that the Commissioner has approved.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(a) (show the source wording)
The source says“A public adjuster shall not use any form of contract that is not approved by the Commissioner.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - Every contract is treated as giving you the right to cancel within three business days after it was signed.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(d)(1) (show the source wording)
The source says“A provision granting the insured a right to rescind the contract within three business days after the date the contract was signed”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - If you cancel, the adjuster must return anything of value you gave within 15 business days of getting your notice.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(d)(2) (show the source wording)
The source says“anything of value given by the insured under the contract shall be returned to the insured within 15 business days following the receipt by the public adjuster of the rescission notice”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - The contract must state the fee and list the typical costs and expenses the adjuster will ask you to pay back.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(b)(9) (show the source wording)
The source says“A statement of the fee, compensation, or other considerations that the public adjuster is to receive for services, including a listing of typical costs and expenses for which the public adjuster is to be reimbursed”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - The contract must show the adjuster's license number and say the license is valid on the signing date.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(b)(3) (show the source wording)
The source says“The public adjuster’s department license number and a statement that the license is valid and in full force and effect as of the date the contract is signed”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - The contract must carry a bold notice that the adjuster represents only the policyholder.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(b)(11) (show the source wording)
The source says“A prominently displayed notice in 12-point boldface type that states “WE REPRESENT THE INSURED ONLY.””
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - The contract cannot limit your right to talk directly with your insurer, its adjuster, or your own attorney about the claim.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(c)(1) (show the source wording)
The source says“Restricts an insured’s right to initiate and maintain direct communications with his or her attorney, the insurer, the insurer’s adjuster, the insurer’s attorney, or any other person regarding settlement of the insured’s claim”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - The contract cannot make you authorize the insurer to issue a check only in the adjuster's name.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(c)(4) (show the source wording)
The source says“Requires the insured to authorize an insurance company to issue a check only in the name of the public adjuster”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - The contract cannot describe the adjuster as also being a contractor, appraiser or other role.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(c)(7) (show the source wording)
The source says“Identifies the public adjuster as also being a contractor, appraiser, or other position.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - Before contacting your insurer, the adjuster must give the insurer a letter you signed that authorizes the adjuster to speak for you.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(d)(3) (show the source wording)
The source says“a public adjuster must provide the insurer a notification letter signed by the insured confirming that the insured has authorized the public adjuster to communicate directly with the insurer”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - You get your own signed original of the contract.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(e) (show the source wording)
The source says“All public adjuster contracts shall be executed in duplicate to provide an original contract to the public adjuster and an original contract to the insured.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened
How can a public adjuster approach me?
- Adjusters can only solicit business between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and between noon and 10 p.m. on Sunday. You can still call or visit them at other times.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.8(b) (show the source wording)
The source says“except between the hours of 8:00 A. M. and 10:00 P. M. on a weekday or a Saturday and between noon and 10:00 P. M. on a Sunday”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - An adjuster cannot solicit clients while a natural disaster with a Governor-declared state of emergency is still in progress.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.8(a) (show the source wording)
The source says“An adjuster shall not solicit or attempt to solicit a client for employment during the progress of a loss-producing natural disaster occurrence.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - Every adjuster advertisement must show the adjuster's name and license number.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.7(a) (show the source wording)
The source says“Each advertisement by an adjuster soliciting or advertising business shall display the adjuster’s name and license number as they appear in the records of the Commissioner.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - Adjuster advertisements and solicitations must be approved by the Commissioner before use.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.7(b) (show the source wording)
The source says“No advertisement soliciting or advertising business may be used by an adjuster unless such solicitation or advertisement has been approved by the Commissioner.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - An ad cannot tell you there is "no risk" in filing a claim or offer money or gifts to get you to file one.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.7(c)(3) (show the source wording)
The source says“A statement or representation that invites an insured to submit a claim by stating that there is “no risk” to the insured by submitting such claim”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - A public adjuster cannot advertise or promise to pay or rebate your deductible.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43(c)(4) (show the source wording)
The source says“Advertise or promise to pay or rebate all or any portion of any insurance deductible as an inducement to the sale of goods or services.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - A public adjuster cannot tell you that you are required to hire an adjuster.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43(c)(1) (show the source wording)
The source says“Misrepresent to an insured that he or she is required to hire an independent or public adjuster to help the insured meet his or her obligations under his or her policy”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - An adjuster cannot advance money to a client or a potential client.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.8(i)(1) (show the source wording)
The source says“Advance money to any potential client or insured”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened
How long does my insurer have in Georgia?
Rule 120-2-52-.03(3) names fire or extended coverage type policies, but Rule 120-2-52-.02 says the regulation is for claims under personal private passenger motor vehicle policies.
- To accept or deny. Georgia's claims rule gives an insurer 60 days after it receives your completed proof of loss to accept or deny a claim under a fire or extended coverage policy. The same rule states that its purpose is auto claims, so how firmly it applies to home claims is not settled by the text.
Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 120-2-52-.03(3) (show the source wording)
The source says“sixty (60) days of receiving the completed proof of loss from the insured for losses arising from fire or extended coverage type policies”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab)
The same rule says an insurer must acknowledge a claim within fifteen (15) days and tender payment within ten (10) days after coverage is confirmed and the amount is not in dispute. Those two periods are left null here because the rule's purpose clause limits it to auto claims. A new law, O.C.G.A. § 33-3-28.1 (HB 1344), takes effect January 1, 2027 and lets the Commissioner order 15, 60 and 10 calendar-day deadlines for property claims after a declared catastrophic event.
What can I do if I disagree with the insurer?
- OCI consumer complaint. The Consumer Services Department of the Commissioner's office takes complaints about how a claim is being handled and may be able to help resolve the issue.
Georgia OCI, Report Complaints & Fraud (show the source wording)
The source says“If you have a complaint about your insurance provider or agent, or how a claim is being handled, we may be able to help you resolve the issue.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab)
Also worth knowing
- A public adjuster cannot take part in repairing or rebuilding property on a claim they adjust.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.8(g)(1) (show the source wording)
The source says“Participate directly or indirectly in the reconstruction, repair, or restoration of damaged property that is the subject of a claim adjusted by such adjuster”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - A contractor cannot act as a public adjuster on property the contractor is repairing or may repair, even with a license or a power of attorney.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.8(k) (show the source wording)
The source says“A contractor shall not act as a public adjuster or advertise to adjust claims for any property for which the contractor is providing or may provide contracting services”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - A public adjuster cannot take a fee for referring you to an attorney, appraiser, umpire, contractor or salvage company.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.8(l) (show the source wording)
The source says“in exchange for the referral by such adjuster of an insured to any third-party individual or firm, including an attorney, appraiser, umpire, construction company, contractor, or salvage company”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - A resident public adjuster must post a $5,000 bond.
Georgia OCI, Licensed Adjusters, Public Adjusters, Counselors & Surplus Lines Brokers (bond amounts under Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 120-2-3-.18) (show the source wording)
- Claim money a public adjuster receives is held in trust for you and cannot be diverted.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.6(a) (show the source wording)
The source says“All funds received as claim proceeds by an adjuster acting as a public adjuster are received and held by such adjuster in a fiduciary capacity.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - Breaking the public adjuster conduct rules in § 33-23-43(c) is a misdemeanor and grounds to suspend or revoke the license.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43(e) (show the source wording)
The source says“Any person who violates any provision of subsection (c) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and such violation shall be grounds for suspension or revocation of licenses under this chapter.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - An insurer that refuses in bad faith to pay a covered loss within 60 days after your demand can owe an added penalty of up to 50% of the loss or $5,000, whichever is greater, plus attorney's fees.
O.C.G.A. § 33-4-6(a) (show the source wording)
The source says“not more than 50 percent of the liability of the insurer for the loss or $5,000.00, whichever is greater, and all reasonable attorney’s fees for the prosecution of the action against the insurer”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - It is an unfair claims practice for an insurer not to send claim forms within 15 calendar days of a request.
O.C.G.A. § 33-6-34(11) (show the source wording)
The source says“Failing to provide forms necessary to file claims within 15 calendar days of a request with reasonable explanations regarding their use”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - The statute itself sets no day count for accepting or denying a claim. It requires a decision within a reasonable time, and only when the policyholder asks in writing.
O.C.G.A. § 33-6-34(7) (show the source wording)
The source says“When requested by the insured in writing, failing to affirm or deny coverage of claims within a reasonable time after having completed its investigation related to such claim or claims”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened - Georgia's claims rule says its purpose is auto claims, even though one paragraph also sets a 60-day period for fire policies.
Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 120-2-52-.02 (show the source wording)
The source says“first party property damage claims arising under personal private passenger motor vehicle policies (hereinafter referred to as "claims")”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) - The same claims rule requires acknowledgment of a claim within 15 days. Read with the purpose clause, this may reach only auto claims.
Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 120-2-52-.03(1) (show the source wording)
The source says“Every insurer, upon receiving notification of a claim shall, within fifteen (15) days, acknowledge the receipt of such notice by the insured, unless payment is made within that time period.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) - The same claims rule requires payment within 10 days once coverage is confirmed and the amount is not in dispute. Read with the purpose clause, this may reach only auto claims.
Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 120-2-52-.03(4) (show the source wording)
The source says“Payment shall be tendered within ten (10) days after coverage is confirmed and the full amount of the claim is determined and not in dispute.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) - Starting January 1, 2027, after a declared catastrophic event the Commissioner can order insurers to acknowledge property claims within 15 calendar days.
Ga. HB 1344 (2026), § 4-1, adding O.C.G.A. § 33-3-28.1(c)(1) (show the source wording)
The source says“Within 15 calendar days of receiving notification of a claim, the insurer shall acknowledge the claim and provide necessary claims forms and reasonable instructions to the insured.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) - Under the same 2027 law, a catastrophe directive can require payment within ten calendar days after coverage is accepted and the amount is not in dispute.
Ga. HB 1344 (2026), § 4-1, adding O.C.G.A. § 33-3-28.1(c)(3) (show the source wording)
The source says“Payment shall be tendered to the insured within ten calendar days after coverage is accepted and the full amount of the claim is determined”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) - HB 1344 also bars property policies from setting a deadline to sue that is shorter than two years from the date of loss. The bill text ties this to policies after July 1, 2027.
Ga. HB 1344 (2026), § 8-2, adding O.C.G.A. § 33-24-59.37(a) (show the source wording)
The source says“contractual limitation requiring commencement of any suit or action within a specified period of time of less than two years from the date of loss”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) - HB 1344 is on the Governor's 2026 signed legislation list and takes effect January 1, 2027.
Ga. HB 1344 (2026), § 16-1(a) (show the source wording)
The source says“This Act shall become effective on January 1, 2027, and shall apply to all applicable policies, contracts, and certificates executed, delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed in this state on or after such date.”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) - A Georgia attorney acting for a policyholder on a loss does not need a public adjuster license.
O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.1(b)(1) (show the source wording)
The source says“An attorney licensed to practice law in this state while acting for an insured concerning a loss under a policy”
Read it at the source (opens in a new tab) · statute mirror; the official site could not be opened
Recent federal disaster declarations in Georgia
- Hurricane Isaias · Emergency declared October 9, 2026 · 76 areas: Baker, Banks, Barrow, Bartow, Calhoun, Carroll, Catoosa, Chattahoochee and more
- Severe Winter Storm · Emergency declared January 24, 2026 · 112 areas: Baldwin, Banks, Barrow, Bartow, Bibb, Bleckley, Bulloch, Burke and more
Federal declarations from FEMA as of November 12, 2026. A state fee limit or deadline may depend on a state declaration instead; check the cited rule. All recent declarations.
Georgia by the numbers
From 2016 to 2025 the National Weather Service logged 15,321 storm event reports in Georgia, with property damage estimates totalling $3.8 billion, the 9th highest of the 50 states and D.C. Hurricane and tropical storm accounted for the most reported damage.
$3.8B
reported storm damage, 2016 to 2025
25
major disaster declarations since 2000
$384M
home damage verified by FEMA since 2002
Common questions about Georgia
Can I hire a public adjuster in Georgia?
You can hire a public adjuster in Georgia, and anyone acting as one must hold a public adjuster license from the Commissioner of Insurance. Georgia licenses public adjusters under Title 33, Chapter 23 of the state code. Since July 1, 2021 a public adjuster must also use a contract form approved by the Commissioner before working with consumers.
How much can a public adjuster charge in Georgia?
A Georgia public adjuster can charge by the hour, a flat rate or a percentage, but the total cannot be more than 33.3% of the insurance settlement and cannot be unreasonable. A percentage fee is not allowed when the insurer pays or commits to pay the policy limit within 72 hours of the loss being reported.
Can I cancel a public adjuster contract in Georgia?
Yes. Georgia law gives 3 business days to cancel. You must cancel in writing, mailed or delivered to the adjuster at the address in the contract within three business days. Email or fax to the address or number named in the contract counts. The adjuster then has 15 business days to return anything of value you gave.
How long does an insurance company have to handle a claim in Georgia?
Georgia's claims rule gives an insurer 60 days after it receives your completed proof of loss to accept or deny a claim under a fire or extended coverage policy. The same rule states that its purpose is auto claims, so how firmly it applies to home claims is not settled by the text.
Where do I complain about an insurer or a public adjuster in Georgia?
Complaints go to the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire. Consumer line: (800) 656-2298.
Sources
Every rule above was matched to the exact words below on November 10, 2026.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.1(a) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
No person may act or hold himself or herself out to be a public adjuster in this state unless such person holds a public adjuster license issued by the Commissioner.
- Georgia OCI, Licensed Adjusters, Public Adjusters, Counselors & Surplus Lines Brokers
Effective July 1, 2021, all Public Adjusters working in Georgia must have their contract pre-approved by the Commissioner prior to working with consumers.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.3(a) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
A public adjuster may not charge the insured an unreasonable fee, and the total commission received shall not exceed 33.3 percent of the amount of the insurance settlement of the claim.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.3(b) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
on which the insurer, not later than 72 hours after the date on which the loss is reported to the insurer, either pays or commits in writing to pay to the insured the policy limit of the insurance policy
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(c)(3) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
allows a public adjuster to collect the entire fee from the first check issued by an insurance company rather than as a percentage of each check issued by an insurance company
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.3(c) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
Require the written signature and endorsement of the insured on the payment draft or check.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43(c)(5) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
A licensed public adjuster shall not charge a claimant a fee for adjusting a claim when he or she is appointed by the insurer for that specific claim or purpose and the appointment is accepted by the public adjuster
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(a) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
A public adjuster shall not use any form of contract that is not approved by the Commissioner.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(d)(1) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
A provision granting the insured a right to rescind the contract within three business days after the date the contract was signed
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(d)(2) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
anything of value given by the insured under the contract shall be returned to the insured within 15 business days following the receipt by the public adjuster of the rescission notice
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(b)(9) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
A statement of the fee, compensation, or other considerations that the public adjuster is to receive for services, including a listing of typical costs and expenses for which the public adjuster is to be reimbursed
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(b)(3) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
The public adjuster’s department license number and a statement that the license is valid and in full force and effect as of the date the contract is signed
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(b)(11) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
A prominently displayed notice in 12-point boldface type that states “WE REPRESENT THE INSURED ONLY.”
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(c)(1) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
Restricts an insured’s right to initiate and maintain direct communications with his or her attorney, the insurer, the insurer’s adjuster, the insurer’s attorney, or any other person regarding settlement of the insured’s claim
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(c)(4) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
Requires the insured to authorize an insurance company to issue a check only in the name of the public adjuster
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(c)(7) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
Identifies the public adjuster as also being a contractor, appraiser, or other position.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(d)(3) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
a public adjuster must provide the insurer a notification letter signed by the insured confirming that the insured has authorized the public adjuster to communicate directly with the insurer
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.2(e) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
All public adjuster contracts shall be executed in duplicate to provide an original contract to the public adjuster and an original contract to the insured.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.8(b) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
except between the hours of 8:00 A. M. and 10:00 P. M. on a weekday or a Saturday and between noon and 10:00 P. M. on a Sunday
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.8(a) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
An adjuster shall not solicit or attempt to solicit a client for employment during the progress of a loss-producing natural disaster occurrence.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.7(a) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
Each advertisement by an adjuster soliciting or advertising business shall display the adjuster’s name and license number as they appear in the records of the Commissioner.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.7(b) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
No advertisement soliciting or advertising business may be used by an adjuster unless such solicitation or advertisement has been approved by the Commissioner.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.7(c)(3) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
A statement or representation that invites an insured to submit a claim by stating that there is “no risk” to the insured by submitting such claim
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43(c)(4) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
Advertise or promise to pay or rebate all or any portion of any insurance deductible as an inducement to the sale of goods or services.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43(c)(1) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
Misrepresent to an insured that he or she is required to hire an independent or public adjuster to help the insured meet his or her obligations under his or her policy
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.8(i)(1) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
Advance money to any potential client or insured
- Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 120-2-52-.03(3)
sixty (60) days of receiving the completed proof of loss from the insured for losses arising from fire or extended coverage type policies
- Georgia OCI, Report Complaints & Fraud
If you have a complaint about your insurance provider or agent, or how a claim is being handled, we may be able to help you resolve the issue.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.8(g)(1) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
Participate directly or indirectly in the reconstruction, repair, or restoration of damaged property that is the subject of a claim adjusted by such adjuster
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.8(k) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
A contractor shall not act as a public adjuster or advertise to adjust claims for any property for which the contractor is providing or may provide contracting services
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.8(l) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
in exchange for the referral by such adjuster of an insured to any third-party individual or firm, including an attorney, appraiser, umpire, construction company, contractor, or salvage company
- Georgia OCI, Licensed Adjusters, Public Adjusters, Counselors & Surplus Lines Brokers (bond amounts under Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 120-2-3-.18)
Public Adjuster - $5,000
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.6(a) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
All funds received as claim proceeds by an adjuster acting as a public adjuster are received and held by such adjuster in a fiduciary capacity.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43(e) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
Any person who violates any provision of subsection (c) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and such violation shall be grounds for suspension or revocation of licenses under this chapter.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-4-6(a) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
not more than 50 percent of the liability of the insurer for the loss or $5,000.00, whichever is greater, and all reasonable attorney’s fees for the prosecution of the action against the insurer
- O.C.G.A. § 33-6-34(11) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
Failing to provide forms necessary to file claims within 15 calendar days of a request with reasonable explanations regarding their use
- O.C.G.A. § 33-6-34(7) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
When requested by the insured in writing, failing to affirm or deny coverage of claims within a reasonable time after having completed its investigation related to such claim or claims
- Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 120-2-52-.02
first party property damage claims arising under personal private passenger motor vehicle policies (hereinafter referred to as "claims")
- Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 120-2-52-.03(1)
Every insurer, upon receiving notification of a claim shall, within fifteen (15) days, acknowledge the receipt of such notice by the insured, unless payment is made within that time period.
- Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 120-2-52-.03(4)
Payment shall be tendered within ten (10) days after coverage is confirmed and the full amount of the claim is determined and not in dispute.
- Ga. HB 1344 (2026), § 4-1, adding O.C.G.A. § 33-3-28.1(c)(1)
Within 15 calendar days of receiving notification of a claim, the insurer shall acknowledge the claim and provide necessary claims forms and reasonable instructions to the insured.
- Ga. HB 1344 (2026), § 4-1, adding O.C.G.A. § 33-3-28.1(c)(3)
Payment shall be tendered to the insured within ten calendar days after coverage is accepted and the full amount of the claim is determined
- Ga. HB 1344 (2026), § 8-2, adding O.C.G.A. § 33-24-59.37(a)
contractual limitation requiring commencement of any suit or action within a specified period of time of less than two years from the date of loss
- Ga. HB 1344 (2026), § 16-1(a)
This Act shall become effective on January 1, 2027, and shall apply to all applicable policies, contracts, and certificates executed, delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed in this state on or after such date.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.1(b)(1) (statute mirror; the official site could not be opened)
An attorney licensed to practice law in this state while acting for an insured concerning a loss under a policy
What we looked for and could not confirm
We leave a rule off the page when we cannot match it to a primary source. These are still open:
- Georgia's official code is hosted by LexisNexis and was not opened. All O.C.G.A. quotes come from the Justia mirror of the 2025 Code of Georgia, so official is false on those sources.
- The Justia quotes were copied from pages opened on 2026-11-10. A second automated pass to re-check them was stopped by a bot check on Justia, so they were compared by eye against the first fetch. Quotes from rules.sos.ga.gov, oci.georgia.gov and the HB 1344 PDF were re-checked by script.
- Whether the 15-day acknowledgment and 10-day payment periods in Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 120-2-52-.03 apply to homeowners claims is not clear from the rule. Rule 120-2-52-.02 limits the regulation to personal auto policies while paragraph .03(3) names fire or extended coverage policies. Acknowledge and pay are null for that reason. This was not confirmed with OCI.
- Rule 120-2-52-.03 says days without saying calendar or business for the 15, 60 and 10 day periods. It says business days only for the five-day extension notice. The 60-day period is recorded as calendar days.
- No statute setting a time limit to sue on a property policy was verified for the period before HB 1344 applies. The standard fire policy form under Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 120-2-19-.01 was opened but the policy text is not shown on the rules page.
- HB 1344 text was read from the signed PDF on the Governor's site with a text extractor that dropped some words. In new § 33-24-59.37(a) the applicability sentence read as policies issued ... after July 1, 2027, with words missing in the middle. Read the PDF by eye before publishing that date.
- HB 1344 does not amend O.C.G.A. §§ 33-23-43 through 33-23-43.10 (a search of the signed text found no public adjuster changes). Two web searches found no other 2025-2026 act amending those sections, but the full list of 2026 acts was not reviewed. HB 405 (2025), requiring adjusters to hold contractor licenses, appeared in results as not advancing past second reading and was not checked further.
- No state-run mediation program for property claims was found on the OCI pages opened. Rule 120-2-52-.03(6) describes an arbitration panel the Commissioner may set up, but it refers to the motor vehicle policy and was not treated as a homeowner option.
- Appraisal rules for Georgia property policies were not found in a statute and are not included.
- O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43(c)(8) uses three business days for the policy-limit fee rule while § 33-23-43.3(b) uses 72 hours. Both are current text on the 2025 Justia mirror.
- The bond amount is quoted from the OCI licensing page. Rule 120-2-3-.18 on rules.sos.ga.gov also lists Public adjuster, $5,000 but the page breaks the text across lines, so the rule was not used for the quote. O.C.G.A. § 33-23-43.4 separately lets the Commissioner require further proof of financial responsibility.
- The license lookup URL is the Sircon page linked from the LICENSE LOOKUP button on oci.georgia.gov. It was not opened to confirm that public adjusters are searchable there.