Before hiring a property insurance appraiser, taking a little time to ask the right questions can help you feel confident in your choice and avoid surprises later in the process.
Ask how many appraisal claims, specifically, the appraiser has handled, as opposed to general adjusting or contracting work. Direct appraisal experience is different from other insurance related work and matters for this particular role.
Ask about experience with your specific type of loss, whether that is wind and hail, fire, water damage, or a business interruption claim, since different loss types call for different expertise.
Ask how the appraiser structures fees, whether hourly, flat fee, or another arrangement, and get that in writing before moving forward.
Ask what a realistic timeline looks like for a claim similar to yours, understanding that every claim is different but a ballpark estimate can help you plan.
Ask how the appraiser typically communicates during the process, including how often you can expect updates and the best way to reach them with questions.
A qualified, experienced appraiser should be comfortable answering all of these questions clearly and directly.
This article is general education about how the appraisal process commonly works. It is not legal advice, and specific procedures can vary by state and policy. If you have questions about your own claim, review your policy language and talk with your insurance company, agent, or an attorney familiar with your state’s laws.
Russ Lis is a working property insurance appraiser and umpire based in Minnesota, serving clients nationwide. Have a question about your own claim? Contact Appraisal Resolution.