Hayman says you should consider hiring a public adjuster if your property sustains a loss that appears to be valued at more than $10,000.

If the claim amount is close to your deductible, you probably shouldn’t use a public adjuster, Hayman says. In that situation, “it might be best not to even place a claim to prevent your rates from increasing,” he says.

McManigal says any claim that has two or more elements (like floor and drywall damage) is well-suited for a public adjuster.

“If a claim is only for the roof, a homeowner can usually negotiate that claim,” he says.

The best time to bring in a public adjuster is before you call your home insurance company, McManigal says.