Industry Leaders Launched Public Adjusting Conduct Code
New professional standards aim to improve consumer protections and service quality for policyholders filing insurance claims.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Insurance
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A coalition of professionals has introduced the Public Adjusting Code of Professional Conduct to address concerns regarding the qualifications and practices of those handling insurance claims. The initiative seeks to standardize service delivery for households across the United States.
Why it matters
Rising demand for public adjusters following natural catastrophes has brought practitioners with varying levels of experience into the market, increasing the need for clearer oversight. This code aims to protect policyholders by establishing firm expectations for competence and ethical conduct.
The new coalition includes at least 16 public adjusters, attorneys, and professionals. Their collective work establishes a baseline for service quality that was previously left to disparate state regulations.
The players
Public Adjuster Code of Conduct Board
An oversight body being established by the coalition to develop investigation procedures and establish consequences for code violations.
The details
The code incorporates provisions from the NAIC Public Adjuster Licensing Model Act and American Bar Association rules to regulate areas such as solicitation, evidence handling, and conflicts of interest. It is designed to function alongside existing state-specific laws to ensure adjusters remain accountable. A newly forming board will oversee the implementation and investigate future allegations of professional misconduct.
Timeline
September 23, 2026: The Public Adjusting Code of Professional Conduct was announced.
Money Landscape
This initiative represents a self-regulatory push to bridge gaps in consumer protection standards that vary widely by state jurisdiction. It follows a period of heightened market activity driven by the recovery efforts following recent natural catastrophes.
Policyholders should review if their state or chosen public adjuster formally adopts this new code when seeking claims assistance. Verifying a professional’s adherence to these standards may help ensure higher accountability during your insurance settlement process.
The takeaway
The new code provides a benchmark for evaluating the professionalism of adjusters who manage your insurance claims. Households should consult with a qualified financial or tax professional when reviewing the credentials of an adjuster before signing a service agreement.
Further reading
For more on managing your claims process, see Insurance.
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Should insurance regulators adopt a uniform code of conduct for public adjusters nationwide?
