Your own loss adjuster is the same as a counter-expert.

Note: this page explains a Dutch synonym. In English we typically speak of a 'counter-expert' or 'independent loss adjuster'.

The short answer

You may engage your own loss adjuster for every claim. The Consumentenbond puts it as follows: “If you disagree with a settlement, you may engage a counter-expert. The insurer pays the costs of assessing the damage. That is laid down in law.”

That 'laid down in law' is article 7:959(1) of the Dutch Civil Code. For consumers this is mandatory law: an insurer cannot contract it away through policy conditions. Or as Kifid states: “The insurer must reimburse the reasonable costs incurred by an insured for a counter-expertise.”

Which term should I use?

• Eigen schade-expert — the Dutch consumer-friendly term — what most policyholders search for.
• Contra-expert — the legal term used by Kifid, the Dutch Association of Insurers and the courts.
• Tegenexpertise — rarely used; older term, not recommended.
• Second opinion — broader term, especially used for investigation reports.

It makes no difference to your rights which term you use. We answer calls about 'an own loss adjuster' and about 'counter-expertise' alike — it is the same work.

What does your own loss adjuster do for me?

1. On-site damage assessment: our expert visits and systematically records the damage — building, contents, inventory, business assets.
2. Policy review: we read your policy conditions critically and check whether the exclusions invoked by the insurer hold up legally.
3. Negotiation: we hold the discussion with your insurer's loss adjuster — as an equally qualified expert.
4. Guidance until payment: objecting to unreasonable deductions, monitoring the payout, and if necessary follow-up proceedings before Kifid or the courts.

According to the Consumentenbond you may still engage your own loss adjuster afterwards — up to 3 years after the claim has been settled. Earlier is always better, but it is never too late.