Work With Trusted & Experienced
Public Adjusters In Del Norte County, CA Who Work For YOU!
100% Contingency Based. We Don't Get Paid Unless YOU Get Paid!
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas.
Get The HIGHEST & Most FAIR Settlement Amount ... That You Are Legally Entitled To ... From Your Insurance Claim!
Get a free on-site inspection & insurance policy evaluation from one of our expert public insurance claims adjusters!
Work with highly trained & vetted Del Norte County public adjusters who are state-licensed, bonded, and trained to handle all residential or commercial insurance claims, big or small!
Public Claims Adjusters Network (PCAN) member public adjusters in Del Norte County,California offer technical and detailed expertise that has satisfied countless homeowners, business owners, condominium associations, property management companies, and HOAs.
Our network members have years of experience dealing with insurance companies. Many of our network’s public adjusters also have previous backgrounds in construction and/or insurance, giving them a significant advantage in quickly securing the highest claim settlement compensation for their clients.
They know what to look for, what repairs actually cost, and what the insurance company’s adjusters tend to ignore (and hope you don’t know about!).
Consultations are always:
- Friendly
- Free
- No-Obligation
- 100% contingency-based In Nearly Every State
… meaning your public adjuster doesn’t get paid, unless you get paid!*
PCAN public adjusters take pride in providing superior customer service, and clear & friendly communication. Please fill out our contact form to schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of our network’s licensed & verified California public adjusters today!
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency Fee Not Permitted By Law In Lousianna. By law, services in Kansas are only available for commercial claims.
Request A Free Consultation!
- Required Fields
*Some Services May Not Be Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted by law in Louisiana. Public Claims Adjusters Network (PCAN) is not a Public Adjusting Agency. PCAN is a private network of stringently vetted, state-licensed, bonded, and PCAN Verified public adjusters with members Nationwide. Your contact request will be matched to one of our verified member public adjusters serving Del Norte County communities, to ensure the highest quality of service & care.
Higher Claim Payouts When Using A Public Adjuster According To Landmark OPPAGA Study!
Contingency Based. We don’t get paid, unless you get paid!
*Not All Services Available In Every Area. Contingency fees not permitted by law in the State of Louisiana.
Why Hire A Public Insurance Adjuster In Del Norte County?
Del Norte County Public Adjusters Help Get You The HIGHEST & Most Fair Settlement Amount (That You Are Legally Entitled To) From Your Homeowners, Roofing, Condo & HOA, & Business Insurance Claims!
Get a Free On-Site Inspection & Insurance Policy Evaluation From One Of Our Expert Del Norte County Public Claims Adjuster Members Today!
- Save You Time & Help Speed Up The Claim Process
- Help Alleviate Stress & Walk You Through The Whole Process
- Negotiate With The Insurance Company & Make Sure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible*
- Prepare & File All The Necessary Documents, And Handle All The Necessary Follow-up's
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas.Â
What Our Network Of Licensed Del Norte County Public Insurance Adjusters Bring To The Table
Del Norte County Insurance Policy Claims Specialists
PCAN member public insurance adjusters have years of experience in claims & reviewing coverages. As such, they understand the numerous types of policies and endorsements you may experience when dealing with your claim in Del Norte County. Their expertise allows them to find & utalize the various coverages your policy may have, and in many cases, inform you of coverage & clauses you may not even know about.
Advocates For Del Norte County Homeonwers Insurance Policy Holders
PCAN member public insurance adjusters advocate for your rights as the policy holder. They ensure that the clients’ rights are being protected throughout the claims process, and make sure you get all the benefits you are entitled to based on your policy. Public adjusters are there with you every step of the way!
Experts In Seen & Unseen Damages
PCAN member public insurance claims adjusters in Del Norte County have years of experience identifying damage, and in most cases, come from professional construction, roofing, and insurance backgrounds. As such, they are able to find & isolate damages that you may not even know to look for, or know would/should be covered by your policy! They also incorporate the latest assessment techniques & technology when conducting their property inspections.
Expert Negotiators
Settlement negotiation is critically important when it comes to the claims process. Public adjusters in Del Norte County know how the insurance companies think, and come to the negotiation table fully prepared to defend & enforce your rights. PCAN member public insurance claims adjusters have the expertise and experience in claims negotiations to ensure that you get what you are actually entitled to under your policy ... not what the insurance company tells you that you are, based on their own interests. When the insurance company plays hardball or puts up a fight, your public adjuster won't be afraid to get in that ring and fight them for what's rightfully yours!
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Del Norte County Public Adjusting
What Are Del Norte County Public Adjusters, & What Do They Do?
Del Norte County Public adjusters are licensed insurance professionals who independently defend policy holders in the insurance claims process. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) the professionals serve as advocates for property owners to ensure that their interests are protected in working with insurance companies.
The function of public adjusters has become more important in recent times, particularly as insurance claims grow more complicated. A landmark study conducted by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) found that policyholders who used public adjusters received settlements up to 800% more than those who handled claims on their own.
Public adjusters provide comprehensive services throughout the claim process. They conduct detailed damage assessments, and prepare and file necessary documentation, and handle all communications with insurance companies. This type of support from licensed professionals, significantly reduces the stress and time involved with filing claims which allows policyholders to concentrate on rehabilitating.
Working primarily on a basis of contingency fees that typically range from 10% to 20 percent of the final settlement, public adjusters are rewarded for securing the most amount of compensation for their clients. The fee structure varies based on claim complexity state regulations, as well as required resources.
They have vast expertise of insurance policies, building codes, as well as construction costs. They apply this knowledge to:
- Expedite the claims process
- Document and assess damages thoroughly
- Navigate complex policies
- Negotiate directly with insurance companies
- Make sure you are in compliance with deadlines for filing and additional policy requirements
Research has clearly shown that professional representation during the process of settling claims usually results in more comprehensive settlements as well as quicker claim resolution times. Public adjusters’ understanding of insurance regulations and industry practices can prevent common pitfalls that could otherwise hinder or delay settlements.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not accepted in Louisiana.
Will My Settlement Be Larger If I Hire A Del Norte County Public Adjusting Company?
Industry research and industry analysis has shown the hiring of a public insurance adjuster can significantly increase policyholder claim settlements. According to a landmark study conducted by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA), policyholders who used public adjusters received settlements up to 800% higher than those who dealt with claims on their own.
Public adjusters in Del Norte County serve as licensed professionals who exclusively represent policyholders throughout the claim process. The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) states that these state-licensed professionals offer detailed claim management services, which include detailed property damage documentation, policy interpretation, and settlement discussions with insurance companies.
The value of professional representation is particularly evident in final settlement figures, as professionally managed claims typically yield more comprehensive damage assessment and more accurate estimates of losses.
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by:
- Handling all correspondence and documentation with insurance companies
- Conducting detailed property damage assessments
- Preparing comprehensive claim submissions
- Directly negotiating with insurance companies
- Speeding up the settlement timeline
- Ensures compliance with policy specifications and deadlines
Most public adjusters operate on the contingency fee basis, typically ranging between 10 and 20% of the final settlement amount. The fee structure is aligned with the adjuster’s interests with the policyholder’s, as their compensation depends on securing a favorable settlement outcome.
The expertise of a Public Adjuster often is invaluable in complicated claims situations, where the knowledge of building codes, construction costs, and insurance policy provisions can have a major impact on settlement outcomes.
Their expertise and oversight ensure no damaged claims are overlooked and that claims are properly assessed according to current market conditions.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
How Much Do Del Norte County Public Adjusters Charge?
Public adjusters typically operate on a contingency fee basis, charging between 10% to 20% of the final insurance claim settlement. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA), these fees vary based on claim complexity, state regulations, and required resources. The contingency fee structure ensures that public adjusters’ interests align directly with those of their clients, as their compensation depends on securing favorable settlements.
Before engagement, policyholders should carefully review fee arrangements and contract terms, ensuring clear understanding of the service agreement. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), public adjusters must maintain state licenses and adhere to strict professional standards, providing an additional layer of consumer protection. Their role becomes particularly valuable in complex claims where specialized knowledge can significantly impact settlement outcomes.
A landmark study by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) demonstrated that policyholders who engaged public adjusters received settlements up to 800% higher than those who handled claims independently. This significant difference underscores the value these professionals bring to the claims process.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
When Should You Hire A Public Claims Adjuster In Del Norte County?
Complex insurance claims often require experienced professionals to effectively navigate. Public insurance adjusters, state-licensed professionals who only work for policyholders, can have a significant impact on claim outcomes as well as settlement amount.
There are a variety of scenarios that warrant hiring a public adjuster:
- Property damage that is extensive
- Claims that involve multiple types of coverage
- Disputed claims or partial claim denials
- Complex documentation requirements
- Time-sensitive situations requiring immediate attention
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by:
- Conducting extensive damage assessments
- Preparing and filing the necessary documentation
- Communication with insurance companies
- Negotiating settlements on behalf of policyholders
- Ensuring compliance with the policy conditions and deadlines
Public adjusters particularly benefit policyholders by:
- Stress reduction through professional claim management
- Speeding up the settlement process
- Giving independent damage assessment
- Ensuring comprehensive documentation
- Leveraging industry expertise for fair settlements
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
When Is It Too Late To Hire A Del Norte County Public Adjuster?
Navigating the insurance claims process requires careful timing and professional expertise. Understanding when to engage a Del Norte County public adjuster can significantly impact claim outcomes and settlement amounts. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA), policyholders can benefit from hiring a public adjuster at any point during an active claim, though earlier engagement typically yields better results.
Key timing considerations include:
Statute of Limitations:
- Each state maintains different deadlines for filing insurance claims
- Claims must be initiated within these legal timeframes
- Public adjusters can assist with existing claims, even if initially filed independently
Documentation Requirements:
- Public adjusters help organize and prepare comprehensive claim documentation
- They can recover or reconstruct missing documentation
- Professional documentation improves claim validity and settlement potential
Claim Status:
- Active claims benefit from professional representation
- Denied claims may be reopened with proper documentation
- Disputed settlements can be renegotiated
Public adjusters provide valuable services throughout the claims process Including:
- Expedited claim processing through professional management
- Expert negotiation with insurance carriers
- Complete documentation preparation and submission
- Regular communication with insurance companies
- Stress reduction through professional claim handling
- Maximum settlement potential through experienced representation
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Why hire a Public Insurance Claims Adjuster In Del Norte County if the insurance company already sent an adjuster?
The decision to hire a state-licensed public claims adjuster, even if an insurance company has appointed its own adjuster, could dramatically affect the outcome of an insurance claim.
Although insurance company adjusters work for their employer’s interests … public adjusters serve as dedicated advocates for policyholders. The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) highlights that these state-licensed & regulated professionals work independently to ensure fair settlements of claims and complete coverage interpretation.
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by coordinating documentation and conducting thorough damage assessments, and handling all communication with insurance companies. This type of professional intervention usually speeds up the resolution of claims and eases homeowners burdens on administrative tasks.
The benefit of public adjusters also goes beyond financial benefits. They provide expert guidance during the claim process, guiding clients through the complexities of policy and ensuring that all damage is properly documented and valued.
They prepare precise damage estimates, gather the necessary evidence, and negotiate directly with insurance carriers to maximize settlement outcomes.
Insurance claims are complicated and time-consuming which makes professional representation crucial during large losses. Public adjusters’ expertise in policy interpretation and negotiation often results in more extensive settlements that cover both obvious and hidden damages.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not accepted in Louisiana.
Can I File My Insurance Claim Myself In Del Norte County?
While policyholders are entitled to file insurance claims on their own, research from experts in the industry suggest this approach may not yield the best results.
The most significant challenges of self-filing include:
- ​​​​Complex documentation requirements and policy interpretation
- Time-intensive communication with insurance representatives
- Risk of overlooking covered damages or benefits
- Potential undervaluation of claims by insurance companies
- Limited-to-zero negotiation experience with insurers
​​​​Licensed public adjusters offer substantial advantages during the claim process:
-
- Professional Documentation and Assessment – Public adjusters thoroughly document damages, and prepare complete claims files, and manage all necessary paperwork, making sure nothing is overlooked.
- Time and Stress Management – These professionals handle all communications with insurance companies so that homeowners can focus on recovery while speeding the process of submitting claims.
- Expert Negotiation – With a vast understanding of the insurance policies and rules, public adjusters engage directly with insurance companies to negotiate fair settlements.
- Cost-Effective Service – Public adjusters typically work on a contingency fee basis, typically ranging between 10-20 percent of the settlement amount, which ensures that the interests of the policyholder are protected.
The National Association of State Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) recognizes public adjusters as licensed professionals who represent the interests of policyholders throughout the claims process. Their expertise can be particularly valuable in complicated claims or when significant damages are involved.
Statistics from the industry consistently demonstrate that professional representation by state-licensed public insurance adjusters leads to better outcomes for policyholders, with quicker processing, and more comprehensive settlement packages.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not accepted in Louisiana.
In Del Norte County, Can My Contractor Represent Me Against My Insurance Company?
While many contractors offer the opportunity to negotiate with insurers, this approach can present some significant risks and limitations. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), contractors are not legally authorized and lack know-how to act as official representatives in insurance claim negotiations.
This restriction could dramatically affect the outcome of a lawsuit and could limit any rights granted to the policyholder.
The state insurance departments oversee licensed public adjusters, who go through extremely specialized training, must pass Federal background checks, and require special licensing from the state to operate. They also are legally authorized to act on behalf of the policyholder to safeguard and enforce their rights … legal authority that contractors do not have … which makes them the legal alternative to the representation of contractors.
Public Adjusters specialize in the interpretation of insurance policies, assessing and documenting damage, and working with insurance companies in order to secure fair and equitable settlements.
Public adjusters provide several distinct advantages, which include:
- Professional claim documents and filing
- Professional negotiation with insurance carriers
- Comprehensive damage assessment
- Accelerated claim processing
- Stress reduction through total claim management
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) emphasizes the fact that public claims adjusters must maintain professional licenses and adhere to strict ethical standards, providing an additional layer of consumer protection not available with the representation of contractors.
For more complex claims for complex claims, public adjusters’ expertise in interpreting policies, document requirements, and negotiation strategies often is invaluable, and can help avoid costly mistakes and claims denials that might occur with negotiation led by contractors.
Disclaimer: Certain Services are not available in all Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted in Louisiana.
I Already Settled My Claim, But It Wasn’t Enough Money To Cover The Damages. Is It Too Late To Get More?
When insurance settlements prove insufficient to pay for property damage, policyholders have a range of legal options to pursue additional compensation, even after the initial settlement of their claim.
According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), NAIC recommends that policyholders be sure to carefully review the terms of their settlement and related documentation before accepting the final settlement payment.
The timing and the circumstances for the pursuit of additional compensation are important elements, as the majority of insurance policies have specific timeframes for claim disputes or appeals, generally between one and two years following the settlement date.
Licensed public claims adjusters are essential in re-evaluating settled claims and in identifying previously missed damages. Public adjusters carry out thorough property assessments, as well as document any additional damages, and negotiate with insurance carriers on behalf of policyholders.
Key steps for pursuing additional compensation include:
- Document newly discovered damages
- Review the policy terms and settlement agreements
- Gather additional evidence and estimations
- Retain professional representation from a state-licensed public insurance adjusters
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) emphasizes that public adjusters are often able to spot overlooked damages and policy provisions which allow for additional compensation. Their expertise in policy interpretation and the valuation of claims proves particularly valuable in defending claims that have already been settled.
Policyholders should take action immediately upon discovering insufficient settlement amounts, since delay may hinder their ability to recover additional compensation. When utilizing a public adjuster’s services, the claim review and negotiation process typically progresses more efficiently than policyholder-directed efforts.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Can My Insurance Company Cancel My Contract If I Use a Public Adjuster In Del Norte County?
No. Insurance companies cannot legally cancel policies solely because policyholders hire public adjusters to represent their interests during the claims process, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). Policy cancellations are strictly governed by contractual terms and state regulations, typically limited to specific circumstances such as non-payment of premiums or material misrepresentation.
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) emphasizes that hiring a licensed public adjusters is a protected right of policyholders. These professionals serve as advocates during insurance claims, handling documentation, negotiations, and communications with insurance carriers to expedite settlements.
The Insurance Information Institute (III) confirms that policyholders maintain the right to professional representation during claims processes, and insurers must honor this right while adhering to fair claims handling practices.
Disclaimer: Some Services Not Available In All Areas.
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
The Homeowners Insurance Claims Recovery Process In Del Norte County, California
Del Norte County state-licensed public insurance claims adjusters are fluent in “Insurance Policy Jargon”, and will guide you through the entire property insurance claims process, while they fight to make sure you get the highest & most fair compensation possible for your claim!
View 7-Step Claims Recovery Process Map
(Click To Expand Infographic)
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Discover How California Public Claims Adjusters Serving Del Norte County Can Get You More From These Types Of Homeowners Insurance Claims
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
- All
- Adjusting
- Basement
- Black Mold
- Business Interruption
- CA
- Ceiling Damage
- Commercial Property Damage
- Condo Association
- Contractors
- Denied Insurance Claims
- Earthquake Damage
- Fire Damage
- Flood Damage
- Foundation Damage
- Hail
- Hail Damage
- Homeowners Association
- Homeowners Insurance
- Hurricane
- Hurricane Damage
- Inspections
- Installation
- Insurance
- Insurance FAQ
- Lightning
- Mitigation
- Mold Damage
- New Claims
- Property Damage
- Public Adjusting Guides
- Remediation
- Repairs
- Replacement
- Roof Damage
- Roof Leaks
- Sewer Lines
- Sinkhole Damage
- Slab Leak
- Solar Panels
- Storm Damage
- Storms
- Structural Damage
- terms
- Theft
- Tordano Damage
- Tornado
- TX
- Underpaid Insurance Claims
- Vandalism
- Water Damage
- Water Lines And Pipes
- Wildfire Damage
- Wind
- Wind
- All
- Adjusting
- Basement
- Black Mold
- Business Interruption
- CA
- Ceiling Damage
- Commercial Property Damage
- Condo Association
- Contractors
- Denied Insurance Claims
- Earthquake Damage
- Fire Damage
- Flood Damage
- Foundation Damage
- Hail
- Hail Damage
- Homeowners Association
- Homeowners Insurance
- Hurricane
- Hurricane Damage
- Inspections
- Installation
- Insurance
- Insurance FAQ
- Lightning
- Mitigation
- Mold Damage
- New Claims
- Property Damage
- Public Adjusting Guides
- Remediation
- Repairs
- Replacement
- Roof Damage
- Roof Leaks
- Sewer Lines
- Sinkhole Damage
- Slab Leak
- Solar Panels
- Storm Damage
- Storms
- Structural Damage
- terms
- Theft
- Tordano Damage
- Tornado
- TX
- Underpaid Insurance Claims
- Vandalism
- Water Damage
- Water Lines And Pipes
- Wildfire Damage
- Wind
- Wind
Commercial Property Damage 
Tordano Damage 
Mold Damage A homeowners insurance glossary of terms provides insight to policyholders of critical terms and definitions commonly used to clarify various aspects of coverage and claims.
Key concepts include such terms as Actual Cash Value (ACV) Vs. Replacement Value, a method for determining compensation based on replacement costs minus recoverable depreciation, and ALE Insurance Coverage, which cover necessary living costs when a home is uninhabitable.
For example, understanding your home insurance policy declaration page, common home insurance claim deductibles for various types of home damage, the general policy exclusions standard in many home insurance policies, can bring much-needed awareness & clarity to policyholders of potential homeowners insurance terminology that may affect their claim outcomes. For example, knowing which key documents (such as photographs and receipts) are essential for substantiating claims.
Related Articles:
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Find A Del Norte County Public Adjuster Near You In One Of These Cities That We Service:
View Service Areas In Del Norte County
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Learn More About Beautiful Del Norte County
Del Norte County | |
|---|---|
| County of Del Norte | |
    Images, from top down, left to right: Crescent City Harbor, Redwood National Park, Castle Rock, the mouth of the Smith River | |
 Seal | |
 Interactive map of Del Norte County | |
 Location in the state of California | |
| Country | United States |
| State | California
|
| Region | North Coast |
| Incorporated | March 2, 1857 |
| Named for | Its location, “Of the North” (Spanish: Del norte), in California |
| County seat | Crescent City |
| Largest city | Crescent City |
| Government | |
|  • Type | Council–CAO |
|  • Chair | Joey Borges |
|  • Vice Chair | Darrin Short |
|  • Board of Supervisors | Supervisors
|
|  • County Administrative Officer | Neal Lopez |
| Area | |
 • Total | 1,230 sq mi (3,200 km) |
|  • Land | 1,006 sq mi (2,610 km) |
|  • Water | 223 sq mi (580 km) |
| Highest elevation | 6,415 ft (1,955 m) |
| Population  (April 1, 2020) | |
 • Total | 27,743 |
 • Estimate (2023) | 26,589  |
|  • Density | 23/sq mi (8.7/km) |
| GDP | |
|  • Total | $0.947 billion (2022) |
| Time zone | UTC−8 (Pacific Time Zone) |
|  • Summer (DST) | UTC−7 (Pacific Daylight Time) |
| Area codes | 707 |
| FIPS code | 06-015 |
| GNIS feature ID | 1682074 |
| Congressional district | 2nd |
| Website | www |
Del Norte County (Spanish for “Of The North”) is a county located at the far northwest corner of the U.S. state of California, along the Pacific Ocean adjacent to the Oregon border. Its population was 27,743 as of the 2020 census, down from 28,610 from the 2010 census. The county seat and only incorporated city is Crescent City. Del Norte was pioneered and populated by Azorean Portuguese settlers and dairy farmers, which may account for the local pronunciation of the county name. Locals pronounce the county name as Del Nort, not Del Nor-teh as would be expected in Spanish. Del Norte County comprises the Crescent City, CA Micropolitan Statistical Area. The rural county is notable for forests containing giant Coast Redwoods, with some attaining heights over 350 feet (110Â m). This northernmost county on the California coast also has scores of unique plants and flowers, dozens of species of coastal birds and fish, rocky primitive beaches and sea stacks, pristine rivers and historic lighthouses.
SourceOur Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.