Lodging

As an independent insurance adjuster you will be responsible for finding a place to stay while working on a storm site.  Because independent adjusters pay for all expenses out of pocket, it is beneficial for the adjuster to find an economically desirable location.  For this reason, some independent adjusters will purchase a camping trailer to help cut back on expenses.  In the long run, purchasing a camper can save an adjuster a great deal of money (hotel fees can cost $1,300.00 a month or greater).  Used, older model campers have been listed on camping websites for as low as $5,000.00.  If you are willing to purchase a camper, it could pay for itself within a few months of work.  If you are the type of person who likes to search for good deals, there are many used camper trailers that have been listed online.  You can save yourself even more money if you don’t mind a fixer upper project.

Most independent adjusters and staff adjusters stay in hotels during their catastrophe work.  Staff adjusters enjoy the luxury of having their employer pay for their lodging expenses; and even your meals!  Finding the right hotel room can be a tedious task when first arriving on a storm site.  Storm sites are often flooded with utility workers, first responders and other insurance adjusters.  Due to power outages, storm damages and living situations many homeowners will also occupy most of the vacant hotel rooms.  If you are searching for hotel rooms through search engines you may find that there are no remaining rooms available.  Websites like Expedia, Priceline and Hotels.com will reserve rooms for their customers exclusively (regardless if the hotel is listed online as full).  So by searching for a hotel room through these vendors you may be able to find a room in the hotel you are trying to get into. 

Because you will be staying for an extended period of time, it may also benefit you to ask about weekly or monthly rates.  Many hotel vendors will offer discounted prices to those who stay long term.  In most areas you can even get a retro-active tax reduction after staying at the same hotel for 30 or more consecutive days (without checking out).

Also consult with your independent adjusting firm.  Some firm’s receive company discounts at specific hotels.