Being organized before appraisal begins can help the process move more smoothly and give your appraiser what they need to do thorough, accurate work. While the exact requirements can vary by claim, there are some categories of documentation that commonly come into play.
A copy of the full insurance policy, not just the declarations page, is one of the most important documents to have on hand, since the appraisal clause itself and other relevant provisions are typically found in the full policy document.
Claim correspondence is also useful, including the original claim filing, any denial or partial denial letters, settlement offers, and written communication with the insurance company or its adjuster about the disputed amount.
Documentation of the damage itself matters a great deal, including photographs and, where available, video taken at the time of the loss and throughout any repair or restoration work.
Repair estimates from contractors or restoration companies, along with any competing estimate prepared by the insurance company’s adjuster or estimator, help the appraiser understand where the two sides disagree and by how much.
For business interruption or larger commercial claims, financial records such as profit and loss statements, tax returns, and payroll records may also be relevant, since these losses are often evaluated differently than straightforward property damage.
Gathering these materials early, even before formally invoking appraisal, can save time later and help your appraiser build the strongest possible independent evaluation of your claim.
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 are considering appraisal for 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.