Which of the following best describes the conflict of interest for a public adjuster?

A public adjuster represents the interests of the policyholder, not the insurance company. The role of a public adjuster is to help the insured navigate the claims process and advocate for fair compensation based on the terms of the insurance policy. Given this, the concept of conflict of interest is inherently tied to the responsibility of the public adjuster to act solely in the best interests of the insured.

Choosing one side, in this case, refers to the public adjuster's obligation to represent the insured exclusively. This eliminates any potential for divided loyalties, where the adjuster might feel pressured to advocate for the insurance company, leading to a conflict of interest. Therefore, the answer highlights the ethical framework guiding public adjusters: they must prioritize the interests of the insured to avoid any conflicts. This establishes clarity in their role and ensures that the policyholder receives the representation and support needed during the claims process.