Our Services
An appraiser in the context of an insurance claim—particularly under the Appraisal Clause—is a neutral valuation professional hired to determine the amount of loss when the policyholder and insurer disagree on the value of damages.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the services provided by an insurance claim appraiser:
01.
Physically inspects the damaged property (home, building, vehicle, contents, etc.) to independently assess the scope of loss.
02.
Prepares a detailed, itemized estimate of the repair or replacement costs using industry-standard tools (e.g., Xactimate).
03.
Determines the Actual Cash Value (ACV) and/or Replacement Cost Value (RCV) of the damaged items or property.
04.
Calculates appropriate depreciation where applicable and justifies it based on age, condition, and use.
05.
Analyzes the insurer’s estimate, engineering reports, invoices, photos, and other supporting documentation.
06.
Communicates and negotiates with the insurance company’s appraiser in an effort to agree on the amount of loss.
07.
If a dispute cannot be resolved, helps select a neutral third-party umpire in accordance with the appraisal clause.
08.
Works with the other appraiser and umpire (if required) to finalize a binding Appraisal Award.
09.
May be asked to explain methodology or defend valuation in post-appraisal litigation (rare, but possible).
In addition to our core appraisal services, we offer the following optional support when cases require deeper analysis, documentation, or specialized insight:
Photo Documentation – Captures photo evidence of damage and repairs.
Contents Inventory Valuation – Assists in pricing damaged or stolen personal property.
Expert Consultation – Offers opinions on methods of repair or rebuild (especially for structural loss).
Construction or Restoration Consulting – Helps assess labor and materials costs based on local market conditions.
Replacement Cost Analysis – Estimates current cost to replace a building or item, not just repair.
In addition to our core appraisal services, we offer the following optional support when cases require deeper analysis, documentation, or specialized insight:
Photo Documentation – Captures photo evidence of damage and repairs.
Contents Inventory Valuation – Assists in pricing damaged or stolen personal property.
Expert Consultation – Offers opinions on methods of repair or rebuild (especially for structural loss).
Construction or Restoration Consulting – Helps assess labor and materials costs based on local market conditions.
Replacement Cost Analysis – Estimates current cost to replace a building or item, not just repair.
Type of Services
Initial Insurance Settlement: $42,000
Insured’s Independent Estimate: $118,000
Appraisal Award: $103,500
Result: Insured received $61,500 more
Carrier used a general contractor’s quick estimate. Appraisers accounted for HVAC contamination, full cleaning, paint, furniture deodorization, and temporary housing.
Initial Offer by Insurer: $9,800 (partial repair of front slope only
Insured’s Estimate: $34,500 (full roof replacement)
Appraisal Outcome: $32,900 (agreed full replacement cost, minus deductible)
Result: Insured received $23,100 more than the insurer’s initial offer
The insurer argued only part of the roof was damaged. Appraisers agreed the whole roof required replacement to match materials.
Insurance Company Offer: $12,600
Policyholder Disputed Estimate: $39,000 (including cabinets, flooring throughout)
Appraisal Panel Award: $36,700
Result: Settlement increased by $24,100
Insurer wanted to patch only part of the hardwood flooring. Appraisers ruled replacement of continuous flooring and full cabinet set was necessary.
Insurer Offer: $76,500
Insured’s Contractor Estimate: $210,000
Appraisal Outcome: $185,000
Result: Insured recovered over $108,000 more
Carrier underestimated damage to mechanical units and flashing. Independent appraisers verified full replacement cost of HVAC systems and roof overlay.
Causation is outside the appraisal scope.
We help clarify and resolve disagreements regarding what caused the damage or loss. Our expert evaluations provide the facts needed to move claims forward with confidence and fairness.
Appraisers must remain impartial.
They only determine value—not liability.
407-385-3585
