FAQ
What is the Insurance Appraisal process?
Appraisal is a Policy Provision found in the Loss Settlement section. It is an Alternate Dispute Resolution, which can resolve disagreement when the Carrier and Policyholder do not agree on the amount of loss. It is an alternative to a lawsuit. Appraisal does not address coverage issues, but can include or exclude items based on causation depending on the state.
When is Appraisal Appropriate?
Often time there is a disagreement over the insurance company's valuation of an insurance claim. Policyholders often think the only way to settle a dispute is to hire a lawyer. Fortunately, this is not the case. Appraisal is a method of Alternative Dispute Resolution often found in many homeowner and commercial insurance policies.
The language will often, but not always, state that appraisal is mandatory when properly demanded by the insurer or insured. It is important to have a qualified Appraiser review your policy to determine your options.
When properly executed, appraisal is binding on the parties as to the amount of loss only. Appraisal does not determine coverage. If not properly invoked, employed, and/or carried out the process may not be binding, so it is important to select a qualified appraiser and umpire.
Sometimes there is a disagreement over the insurance company's valuation of an insurance claim. Policyholders often think the only way to settle the dispute is to hire a lawyer. Fortunately, this is not the case. Appraisal is a method of Alternative Dispute Resolution often found in many homeowner and commercial insurance policies.
The language will often, but not always, state that appraisal is mandatory when properly demanded by the insurer or insured. It is important to have a qualified Appraiser review your policy to determine your options.
When properly executed, appraisal is binding on the parties as to the amount of loss only. Appraisal does not determine coverage. If not properly invoked, employed, and/or carried out the process may not be binding, so it is important to select a qualified appraiser and umpire.