Carbon Advisors
Policyholder Representation
California Licensed and Operated
Residential, Commercial & Estate Claims
No Recovery, No Fee
Carbon delivers expert claims management and unwavering advocacy—maximizing outcomes for homeowners, business owners, and property stakeholders when it matters most.
Managing Director
at Carbon
KC Cullum
Managing Director
at Carbon
KC Cullum
Policyholder Representation
California Licensed and Operated
Residential, Commercial & Estate Claims
No Recovery, No Fee
Carbon delivers expert claims management and unwavering advocacy—maximizing outcomes for homeowners, business owners, and property stakeholders when it matters most.
Managing Director
at Carbon
KC Cullum
Why choose us
Why choose us
Why choose us
Proven results for every client, fighting for the outcome you deserve.
Proven results for every client, fighting for the outcome you deserve.
When the unexpected happens, we’re here to help you move forward. Start the conversation.
When the unexpected happens, we’re here to help you move forward. Start the conversation.
When the unexpected happens, we’re here to help you move forward. Start the conversation.
When loss occurs, navigating your insurance claim shouldn’t be an uphill battle. At Carbon, we advocate for property owners across California—residential, commercial, and everything in between—bringing clarity to the process and fighting for the outcome you deserve.
As part of the Thoughtful family of companies, our approach is grounded in service, strategy, and results. Whether your claim involves structural damage, business interruption, or major repairs, our team delivers expert guidance and tireless representation.
When loss occurs, navigating your insurance claim shouldn’t be an uphill battle. At Carbon, we advocate for property owners across California—residential, commercial, and everything in between—bringing clarity to the process and fighting for the outcome you deserve.
As part of the Thoughtful family of companies, our approach is grounded in service, strategy, and results. Whether your claim involves structural damage, business interruption, or major repairs, our team delivers expert guidance with a proven track record.
01
Claims successfully resolved
From wildfires to water damage, we’ve helped countless families and property owners recover faster and more fully.
01
Claims successfully resolved
From wildfires to water damage, we’ve helped countless families and property owners recover faster and more fully.
01
Claims successfully resolved
From wildfires to water damage, we’ve helped countless families and property owners recover faster and more fully.
02
Client satisfaction rate
Our clients trust us to lead with expertise, advocate with integrity, and deliver real results when it matters most.
02
Client satisfaction rate
Our clients trust us to lead with expertise, advocate with integrity, and deliver real results when it matters most.
02
Client satisfaction rate
Our clients trust us to lead with expertise, advocate with integrity, and deliver real results when it matters most.
What we do
What we do
What we do
Our Process.
Our Process.
[1]
Site Inspection & Damage Assessment
We begin every engagement with a comprehensive, boots-on-the-ground inspection of the affected property. Our team carefully evaluates all visible and potential hidden damage—structural, mechanical, interior, and exterior—documenting every detail through high-resolution photos, videos, and field notes. We work with engineers and specialty consultants when necessary to ensure no aspect of your loss goes unnoticed. The goal: a complete and defensible record of the damage from day one.
Site Inspection & Damage Assessment
[2]
Policy Review & Strategy Development
Your insurance policy is a contract filled with conditions, exclusions, and entitlements that vary widely between carriers and property types. We decode the fine print—analyzing your coverage, endorsements, deductibles, and timelines—to determine the full scope of what you’re entitled to. Then, we design a clear, customized strategy that positions your claim for success from both a legal and tactical standpoint.
Policy Review & Strategy Development
[3]
Documentation & Valuation
This is where most claims fall short—but where Carbon excels. We develop a thorough inventory of all damage, supported by itemized cost estimates, market-based pricing, and industry-standard tools like Xactimate®. Our valuation process reflects real-world construction costs in your area, including materials, labor, code upgrades, and specialty work. We build a claim file that’s detailed, data-driven, and designed to withstand insurer scrutiny.
Documentation & Valuation
[4]
Negotation & Advocacy
We take over all direct communication with your insurance company, their adjusters, and any third-party consultants. Our team brings deep experience negotiating complex, high-value claims—and we’re not afraid to push back. Every conversation, submission, and revision is documented and strategic. You won’t be left in the dark or overwhelmed by jargon—we handle it all, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Negotation & Advocacy
[5]
Resolution & Rebuild Support
Even after a settlement is reached, we stay involved to ensure funds are released in a timely manner and applied appropriately. Need help sourcing contractors or understanding your rebuild options? We offer guidance there, too. Our job isn’t done until you’ve recovered what you’re owed—and are on solid ground to move forward.
Resolution & Rebuild Support
[1]
Site Inspection & Damage Assessment
We begin every engagement with a comprehensive, boots-on-the-ground inspection of the affected property. Our team carefully evaluates all visible and potential hidden damage—structural, mechanical, interior, and exterior—documenting every detail through high-resolution photos, videos, and field notes. We work with engineers and specialty consultants when necessary to ensure no aspect of your loss goes unnoticed. The goal: a complete and defensible record of the damage from day one.
Site Inspection & Damage Assessment
[2]
Policy Review & Strategy Development
Your insurance policy is a contract filled with conditions, exclusions, and entitlements that vary widely between carriers and property types. We decode the fine print—analyzing your coverage, endorsements, deductibles, and timelines—to determine the full scope of what you’re entitled to. Then, we design a clear, customized strategy that positions your claim for success from both a legal and tactical standpoint.
Policy Review & Strategy Development
[3]
Documentation & Valuation
This is where most claims fall short—but where Carbon excels. We develop a thorough inventory of all damage, supported by itemized cost estimates, market-based pricing, and industry-standard tools like Xactimate®. Our valuation process reflects real-world construction costs in your area, including materials, labor, code upgrades, and specialty work. We build a claim file that’s detailed, data-driven, and designed to withstand insurer scrutiny.
Documentation & Valuation
[4]
Negotation & Advocacy
We take over all direct communication with your insurance company, their adjusters, and any third-party consultants. Our team brings deep experience negotiating complex, high-value claims—and we’re not afraid to push back. Every conversation, submission, and revision is documented and strategic. You won’t be left in the dark or overwhelmed by jargon—we handle it all, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Negotation & Advocacy
[5]
Resolution & Rebuild Support
Even after a settlement is reached, we stay involved to ensure funds are released in a timely manner and applied appropriately. Need help sourcing contractors or understanding your rebuild options? We offer guidance there, too. Our job isn’t done until you’ve recovered what you’re owed—and are on solid ground to move forward.
Resolution & Rebuild Support
[1]
Site Inspection & Damage Assessment
We begin every engagement with a comprehensive, boots-on-the-ground inspection of the affected property. Our team carefully evaluates all visible and potential hidden damage—structural, mechanical, interior, and exterior—documenting every detail through high-resolution photos, videos, and field notes. We work with engineers and specialty consultants when necessary to ensure no aspect of your loss goes unnoticed. The goal: a complete and defensible record of the damage from day one.
Site Inspection & Damage Assessment
[2]
Policy Review & Strategy Development
Your insurance policy is a contract filled with conditions, exclusions, and entitlements that vary widely between carriers and property types. We decode the fine print—analyzing your coverage, endorsements, deductibles, and timelines—to determine the full scope of what you’re entitled to. Then, we design a clear, customized strategy that positions your claim for success from both a legal and tactical standpoint.
Policy Review & Strategy Development
[3]
Documentation & Valuation
This is where most claims fall short—but where Carbon excels. We develop a thorough inventory of all damage, supported by itemized cost estimates, market-based pricing, and industry-standard tools like Xactimate®. Our valuation process reflects real-world construction costs in your area, including materials, labor, code upgrades, and specialty work. We build a claim file that’s detailed, data-driven, and designed to withstand insurer scrutiny.
Documentation & Valuation
[4]
Negotation & Advocacy
We take over all direct communication with your insurance company, their adjusters, and any third-party consultants. Our team brings deep experience negotiating complex, high-value claims—and we’re not afraid to push back. Every conversation, submission, and revision is documented and strategic. You won’t be left in the dark or overwhelmed by jargon—we handle it all, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Negotation & Advocacy
[5]
Resolution & Rebuild Support
Even after a settlement is reached, we stay involved to ensure funds are released in a timely manner and applied appropriately. Need help sourcing contractors or understanding your rebuild options? We offer guidance there, too. Our job isn’t done until you’ve recovered what you’re owed—and are on solid ground to move forward.
Resolution & Rebuild Support
About us
About us
About us
Carbon™
Carbon™
Carbon™
Decades of experience.
Built on trust.
Decades of experience.
Built on trust.
Carbon is led by KC Cullum, Managing Director, who brings over 20 years of adjusting, construction, and client advocacy experience. Based in Encinitas and operating statewide, KC is known for his detailed claims work, clear communication, and results-first approach—treating every claim like it’s personal.
Carbon is led by KC Cullum, Managing Director, who brings over 20 years of adjusting, construction, and client advocacy experience. Based in Encinitas, CA and operating statewide, KC is known for his detailed claims work, clear communication, and results-first approach—treating every claim like it’s personal.
Watch the Interview
KC Cullum, Managing Director
Watch the Interview
KC Cullum, Managing Director
Watch the Interview
KC Cullum, Managing Director
Testimonials
Testimonials
Testimonials
Hear it from them.
4.9
4.9
/5
We’ve successfully guided over 50 clients through complex claims with clarity, care, and results.
Carbon™
Carbon™
Carbon™
56+
Trusted by
property owners across California
56+
Trusted by
clients statewide
56+
Trusted by
property owners across California
Janelle Yang
Incredible support from start to finish. Carbon handled everything—kept us informed, fought for a fair settlement, and got it done faster than expected.
Janelle Yang
Incredible support from start to finish. Carbon handled everything—kept us informed, fought for a fair settlement, and got it done faster than expected.
Janelle Yang
Incredible support from start to finish. Carbon handled everything—kept us informed, fought for a fair settlement, and got it done faster than expected.
Emily Davis
StartUp Hub
A smooth process with real results. We were overwhelmed, but the Carbon team brought calm, confidence, and clarity. Highly professional.
Emily Davis
StartUp Hub
A smooth process with real results. We were overwhelmed, but the Carbon team brought calm, confidence, and clarity. Highly professional.
Emily Davis
StartUp Hub
A smooth process with real results. We were overwhelmed, but the Carbon team brought calm, confidence, and clarity. Highly professional.
Anna Martinez
Marketing Director
Above and beyond. They helped us recover far more than the insurance company initially offered. Worth every penny.
Anna Martinez
Marketing Director
Above and beyond. They helped us recover far more than the insurance company initially offered. Worth every penny.
Anna Martinez
Marketing Director
Above and beyond. They helped us recover far more than the insurance company initially offered. Worth every penny.
Years experience in claims and advocacy
Years experience in claims and advocacy
Years experience in claims and advocacy
Focused on property owners—not insurers
Focused on property owners—not insurers
Focused on property owners—not insurers
Total settlement value recovered to date
Total settlement value recovered to date
Total settlement value recovered to date
Average increase over initial insurance offers
Average increase over initial insurance offers
Average increase over initial insurance offers
Carbon™
Carbon™
Carbon™
Not all adjusters are created equal.
Carbon isn't a volume-driven firm: we’re a service-first partner. We limit caseloads so every client gets the attention, depth, and strategy they deserve. As a California-focused firm, we bring unmatched insight into regional policies, building codes, and claim practices. We're not here to process—we’re here to advocate.
Carbon isn't a volume-driven firm: we’re a service-first partner. We limit caseloads so every client gets the attention, depth, and strategy they deserve. As a California-focused firm, we bring unmatched insight into regional policies, building codes, and claim practices. We're not here to process—we’re here to advocate.
Trusted by property owners who expect more. We bring clarity, strategy, and unwavering advocacy to every claim—because getting what you’re owed shouldn’t be a fight.
Trusted by property owners who expect more. We handle the details, guide the process, and work to make sure your claim is fair and accurate—start to finish.
Trusted by property owners who expect more. We bring clarity, strategy, and unwavering advocacy to every claim—because getting what you’re owed shouldn’t be a fight.
Carbon™
Carbon™
Carbon™
The humans behind your peace of mind.
The humans behind your peace of mind.
Join our mission
Become a Carbon Advisor
If you're passionate about helping others through critical moments, we’d love to connect.
At Carbon, we lead with empathy and expertise. Our team works side by side—property experts, adjusters, strategists—to ensure every client feels informed, protected, and supported from day one.
Managing Director
at Carbon
KC Cullum
Known for his strategic mindset and calm under pressure, KC leads with integrity and a relentless focus on doing what’s right for property owners.
Managing Director
at Carbon
KC Cullum
Known for his strategic mindset and calm under pressure, KC leads with integrity and a relentless focus on doing what’s right for property owners.
Managing Director
at Carbon
KC Cullum
Known for his strategic mindset and calm under pressure, KC leads with integrity and a relentless focus on doing what’s right for property owners.
FAQ
FAQ
Got questions? We’ve got answers. Here’s everything you need to know about working with us.
A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents you—not the insurance company—during a property damage claim. We handle everything from evaluating the damage and preparing the claim to negotiating with the insurer on your behalf. Our goal is to protect your interests and secure the full settlement you’re entitled to.
Yes. Carbon works with homeowners, business owners, property managers, HOAs, and estate representatives. Whether it’s a single-family home, multi-unit building, retail space, or high-value estate, we bring deep expertise and tailored support to each claim.
Absolutely. We regularly step in after claims have been underpaid, delayed, or denied. We can re-evaluate your policy, reassess damages, and reopen negotiations to pursue a better outcome—even if the process has already begun.
No. We work on a contingency basis, which means we only get paid when you do. There are no upfront fees, no hourly rates, and no surprises—just aligned incentives.
Every claim is different, but we move quickly and strategically. Smaller claims may resolve in a few weeks, while complex or disputed cases can take several months. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and advocate aggressively to avoid unnecessary delays.
A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents you—not the insurance company—during a property damage claim. We handle everything from evaluating the damage and preparing the claim to negotiating with the insurer on your behalf. Our goal is to protect your interests and secure the full settlement you’re entitled to.
Yes. Carbon works with homeowners, business owners, property managers, HOAs, and estate representatives. Whether it’s a single-family home, multi-unit building, retail space, or high-value estate, we bring deep expertise and tailored support to each claim.
Absolutely. We regularly step in after claims have been underpaid, delayed, or denied. We can re-evaluate your policy, reassess damages, and reopen negotiations to pursue a better outcome—even if the process has already begun.
No. We work on a contingency basis, which means we only get paid when you do. There are no upfront fees, no hourly rates, and no surprises—just aligned incentives.
Every claim is different, but we move quickly and strategically. Smaller claims may resolve in a few weeks, while complex or disputed cases can take several months. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and advocate aggressively to avoid unnecessary delays.
A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents you—not the insurance company—during a property damage claim. We handle everything from evaluating the damage and preparing the claim to negotiating with the insurer on your behalf. Our goal is to protect your interests and secure the full settlement you’re entitled to.
Yes. Carbon works with homeowners, business owners, property managers, HOAs, and estate representatives. Whether it’s a single-family home, multi-unit building, retail space, or high-value estate, we bring deep expertise and tailored support to each claim.
Absolutely. We regularly step in after claims have been underpaid, delayed, or denied. We can re-evaluate your policy, reassess damages, and reopen negotiations to pursue a better outcome—even if the process has already begun.
No. We work on a contingency basis, which means we only get paid when you do. There are no upfront fees, no hourly rates, and no surprises—just aligned incentives.
Every claim is different, but we move quickly and strategically. Smaller claims may resolve in a few weeks, while complex or disputed cases can take several months. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and advocate aggressively to avoid unnecessary delays.
Latest insights on claims, coverage, and recovery.
Latest insights on claims, coverage, and recovery.
Stay informed with updates from our team on industry trends, property risk, and smart ways to navigate insurance.
Carbon™
Carbon™
Carbon™
What’s new
in property claims?
What’s new
in property claims?
What’s new
in property claims?
Let’s talk.
Wherever you are in the claims process, Carbon is ready to step in—with us, you don’t just have an adjuster—you have an advocate.
Quick response.
If you're facing property damage, reach out—we’ll respond quickly to assess how we can help.
Clear next steps.
After your consultation, we’ll outline a clear action plan to move your claim forward with confidence.
Let’s talk.
Wherever you are in the claims process, Carbon is ready to step in—with us, you don’t just have an adjuster—you have an advocate.
Quick response.
If you're facing property damage, reach out—we’ll respond quickly to assess how we can help.
Clear next steps.
After your consultation, we’ll outline a clear action plan to move your claim forward with confidence.
Let’s talk.
Wherever you are in the claims process, Carbon is ready to step in—with us, you don’t just have an adjuster—you have an advocate.
Quick response.
If you're facing property damage, reach out—we’ll respond quickly to assess how we can help.
Clear next steps.
After your consultation, we’ll outline a clear action plan to move your claim forward with confidence.