Remote Adjusting: Is It the Future of Property Claims?
There was a time when being a property claims adjuster meant boots on the ground, tape measure in hand, and a hard hat in the trunk. But over the last few years, something has shifted. Technology has entered the chat—and it’s changing everything.
Remote adjusting, once a niche option, is becoming a major player in the property claims world. The question is: Is it the future? And more importantly, what does that mean for adjusters?
Let’s take a closer look.
What Is Remote Adjusting, Exactly?
Remote adjusting allows adjusters to handle property claims without physically visiting the loss site. Instead of walking through a fire-damaged home or wind-blown roof, you rely on photos, videos, drone footage, virtual inspections, and digital documentation provided by the policyholder or field reps.
You review the evidence, communicate with the insured, write the estimate, and finalize the claim—all from your laptop. Coffee shop, home office, beach in Costa Rica? If you’ve got Wi-Fi, you’re in business.
Why Is Remote Adjusting Gaining Traction?
A few big reasons:
✅ Efficiency: Remote adjusters can handle more claims in less time. No travel means more desk time, faster resolutions, and reduced costs for carriers.
✅ Technology: With better inspection tools (hello, drones and Matterport scans), you can get highly detailed views of the loss without ever stepping foot on site.
✅ COVID-19’s Influence: The pandemic forced the industry to adopt remote tools out of necessity—and many discovered it worked even better than expected.
✅ Policyholder Preference: Some homeowners prefer a virtual experience. It’s faster, less invasive, and fits modern expectations for digital convenience.
Pros and Cons for Adjusters
Remote adjusting isn’t for everyone.
Pros:
Work from anywhere (goodbye, commuting in storms).
More flexible schedules.
Higher claim volume = potential for more income.
Less physical strain than field work.
Cons:
Less variety—some miss being on-site and interacting in person.
More screen time, less movement.
Requires excellent communication and tech skills.
Complex losses may still require in-person assessment.
So… Is It the Future?
Remote adjusting isn’t going to replace field adjusting—it’s going to coexist with it.
Some losses will always need boots on the ground: total losses, large commercial properties, or complex claims with multiple stakeholders. But for standard residential losses or weather claims? Remote adjusting is already proving faster, cheaper, and just as accurate—when done right.
Think of it this way: it’s not about choosing either remote or in-person. It’s about building a hybrid model that offers the best of both.
How to Thrive as a Remote Adjuster
If you want to stay ahead, start building your remote skillset:
Learn how to use claims platforms and virtual inspection tools.
Sharpen your communication and documentation skills.
Invest in a solid work-from-home setup—good lighting, reliable internet, dual monitors, and noise-canceling headphones.
The Bottom Line?
Remote adjusting is no longer a backup plan—it’s a real, growing part of the adjusting world. For property adjusters willing to adapt, it opens the door to flexibility, opportunity, and a career that moves as fast as the tech behind it.
And that’s something worth adjusting to.