Appraisal

 An insurance claim appraiser is an impartial professional hired to evaluate the amount of loss or damage to your property when there’s a dispute between you and your insurance company.

When you and your insurer can’t agree on the value of a claim, the appraisal process is a binding alternative to litigation that helps resolve the disagreement quickly and fairly.

 Most property insurance policies include an Appraisal Clause, which allows either the policyholder or the insurance company to demand an independent appraisal when there’s a dispute over the amount of loss - NOT coverage.

•  Demand Appraisal: Either you or your insurance company can request it (in writing).
• Each Party Chooses an Appraiser: You hire an independent appraiser to assess the loss from your side; the insurer hires theirs.
• Selection of an Umpire: If the two appraisers don’t agree, they appoint an impartial umpire to make the final decision.
• Binding Decision: Once any two of the three parties agree on the amount, the decision is final and binding under your policy.

       Note: The award is subject to your insurance policy coverages and deductible.

 Your independent appraiser acts as your advocate during the appraisal. They thoroughly inspect the damage, prepare detailed estimates, and negotiate with the other appraiser to reach a fair outcome.

            Benefits include:

• Faster resolution than going to court.
• No need for expensive litigation or lawyers.
• An impartial umpire helps break deadlocks.
• Usually leads to higher settlements when your loss was undervalued.

 At The Claim Forge, we’ve helped countless homeowners and businesses navigate the appraisal process successfully. We handle:

• Residential and commercial property claims. 
• Disputes over repair costs, scope of work, or replacement value. 
• Complex damages: roofs, water damage, fire loss, hail, hurricane claims, and more. 
• Coordinating with umpires and other appraisers for fair outcomes.
   

 Each party pays for their own appraiser. The cost of the umpire is split equally between you and the insurance company if an umpire is needed.

 Q: When is appraisal better than hiring a lawyer?

A: When you and your insurer disagree on the amount of loss, but not on coverage, appraisal is usually faster and more cost-effective than filing a lawsuit.

Q: Will my insurance company agree to appraisal?

A: If your policy has an Appraisal Clause - and most do - they can’t refuse if you properly demand it. (Sometimes they will try to block it though)

Q: Can I hire a public adjuster and an appraiser?

A: Yes - your public adjuster may recommend appraisal if negotiations stall. We work hand-in-hand to protect your interests.