What is a catastrophe (CAT) adjuster?

CAT adjusters specialize in disaster response. When events like Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Sandy, the Tubbs Fire, or major tornadoes hit, insurers face thousands of claims in a concentrated area; existing staff is overwhelmed; CAT adjusters are mobilized to handle the surge. Characteristics: (1) Travel to affected areas — often staying in hotels or RV for weeks; (2) Work long hours in difficult conditions — damaged areas, no power, limited resources; (3) Handle 5-15 claims per day (much higher than normal adjusters); (4) Specialized procedures — streamlined inspection, drone photography, accelerated settlements; (5) Often work as independent adjusters contracted through CAT firms; (6) Daily pay or per-claim pay rather than salary; (7) Significant travel and per-diem; (8) Seasonal — hurricane season, fire season concentrate work in certain months. CAT licensing: many states have special emergency adjuster licenses or expedited reciprocity for CAT response. The work pays well but is grueling; adjusters work through nights and weekends; emotional toll is significant (interviewing people who lost everything). After major events: insurers face regulatory scrutiny and complaints; CAT adjusters' work quality affects the insurer's reputation; documentation is essential.