Like policyholders, insurance carriers can have specific concerns as a claim moves through the appraisal process, and understanding these general concerns can provide useful context on how carriers typically approach appraisal.
Carriers often focus on whether the appraisal is limited appropriately to the dollar amount of the covered loss, since appraisal clauses generally do not extend to broader coverage questions, and maintaining that scope matters to carriers as well as policyholders.
Timelines are frequently a consideration, since carriers generally aim to resolve claims efficiently, and delays in appraiser or umpire selection can extend the time needed to reach a final resolution.
Carriers also generally pay attention to the qualifications and independence of the appraiser selected by the policyholder, just as policyholders may have similar considerations about the carrier’s chosen appraiser, since the process depends on genuine independence from both sides.
Documentation and thoroughness matter to carriers as well, since a well supported appraisal award, based on clear evidence and reasoning, generally provides a more defensible and durable resolution than one lacking detailed support.
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 a specific claim, review your policy language and talk with your insurance company 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.