Getting started...

Appraisal is a form of dispute resolution between an insured and an insurer.  This is a provision in the policy that allows either party to invoke the clause to resolve any outlying dispute in the claim.  In other words, this is a step that often needs to be taken before litigation occurs.  Now, not every claim in appraisal has the intent of filing suit, however, this is a great tool for property owners and insurers alike to resolve issues between the two.

The appraisal language varies between various polices and insurers, but the nuts and bolts of appraisal involve the following:  

Each party will hire their own impartial and competent appraiser.  The two appraisers will agree on an umpire or ask the courts to appoint one for them (most of the time, we agree on an umpire we are both familiar with).  They will then sign a Declaration of Appraisers, stating that we are competent and impartial and have not financial interest in the outcome of the file.  We will then evaluate the circumstances of the loss, which often involves an onsite inspection.  Next, we will each draft our own position estimates and come together again to review our estimates.  We will collaborate together to achieve a measure and value for the damages and sign an award that is turned into the insurance company.  In the event we do not agree (which happens, but not often), we will invoke the umpire we agreed upon to act as the tie breaker. See the umpire section of the website for more details. 

Specific policy language aside, that is appraisal in a nutshell!

If you believe this process is right for you, please reach out to us below!