A clear, independent process for evaluating disputed amounts of loss in residential and commercial property insurance claims.
Property insurance appraisal is a structured process for resolving disputes concerning the amount of loss. The specific procedure is governed by the applicable policy language, assignment and jurisdiction.
The appraisal process generally begins when the insured and insurer disagree concerning the amount of a property loss. The dispute may involve scope, quantities, repair methodology, pricing or other components affecting the amount of loss.
Appraisal is invoked or demanded in accordance with the applicable insurance policy. The appraisal provision should be reviewed carefully because requirements, procedures and timeframes can vary by policy and jurisdiction.
Each party appoints an appraiser as provided by the applicable appraisal provision. Before accepting an assignment, availability, potential conflicts, assignment scope and fee are reviewed and confirmed.
The applicable appraisal provision and available claim materials are reviewed. These may include estimates, photographs, measurements, scopes, reports, invoices and other documentation relevant to evaluating the disputed amount of loss.
When appropriate to the assignment, the property is inspected and relevant damage, measurements, quantities, materials, repair considerations and supporting documentation are evaluated.
Each appraiser independently evaluates the amount of loss within the scope of the appraisal assignment using the available evidence, inspection findings, measurements, estimates and applicable property-loss estimating considerations.
The appointed appraisers compare their evaluations, identify areas of agreement and disagreement, discuss disputed scope and pricing issues, and attempt to reach agreement on the amount of loss.
The appraisal provision may require the appraisers to select an umpire as part of the appraisal process. If the appraisers cannot agree on disputed amounts, unresolved differences may be submitted to the umpire in accordance with the applicable policy language and assignment.
When the agreement required by the applicable appraisal provision is reached, the appraisal award is documented and signed as required by the applicable process. The award establishes the amount of loss determined through appraisal, subject to the governing policy language and applicable law.
Property insurance appraisal is generally focused on determining the amount of loss. Depending on the policy and jurisdiction, questions concerning insurance coverage, policy interpretation or other legal issues may fall outside the appraisal assignment. West Plains Independent Appraiser evaluates only the matters within the accepted appraisal or umpire assignment and does not provide legal advice or determine insurance coverage.
The appraisal process provides a structured method for addressing disputes concerning the amount of loss in a property insurance claim. The appraiser evaluates the assignment independently using the available evidence and applicable appraisal scope.
Carrier assignments receive the same independent, documentation-focused approach, with detailed estimating knowledge, organized communication and attention to the applicable appraisal scope.
West Plains Independent Appraiser accepts property-loss appraisal and umpire assignments throughout our five-state service area. Appraisal requirements and procedures may vary by policy, assignment and jurisdiction. Each accepted matter is handled according to the applicable policy language and the scope of the appraisal or umpire assignment.
Submit the basic claim information for an availability, conflict, scope and fee review.