Independent field insurance adjuster

Insurance companies and larger adjusting firms that send overflow files to independent contractors.

A fee per file or per day, often set by the insurer's fee schedule, plus mileage or expenses on some contracts. More files in busy periods means more income.

• Attention to detail
• Basic building or vehicle damage knowledge
• Clear report writing
• Calm, fair dealing with upset people

• Provincial adjuster licensing, which varies, and Quebec has its own rules and French-language requirements
• Errors and omissions insurance and commercial general liability coverage, which some firms require
• Income can swing sharply with weather events and file volume, so plan cash flow
• Working on roofs or damaged buildings carries safety risks, so check what training and equipment you need
• Contracts may pay late or set tight turnaround times, so read the terms carefully

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on your equipment, training and insurance. Check what training and equipment you need, especially for working on roofs or damaged buildings.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on file volume. Income can swing sharply with weather events, so plan your cash flow. The estimate assumes at least about 20 hours a week.

Check provincial adjuster licensing, which varies; Quebec has its own rules and French-language requirements. Also check whether errors and omissions and commercial general liability insurance are needed, as some firms require them.