Property insurance claims and the appraisal process can involve several important deadlines, and staying organized about these dates can help protect your position throughout the process.
Start with any deadlines related to filing the original claim itself, since most policies require notifying the insurance company of a loss within a certain timeframe after it occurs.
Check your policy for any specific deadlines related to invoking appraisal, since some policies include time limits for demanding appraisal after a disagreement over the claim amount arises.
Keep track of any deadlines related to providing documentation, such as proof of loss forms or supporting evidence, which many policies require within a specific period after the loss.
Once appraisal is underway, stay aware of any timelines your appraiser communicates regarding umpire selection, property inspections, or the exchange of valuations between the two appraisers.
Keeping a simple written log of key dates and deadlines throughout your claim, and asking your appraiser or insurance company to confirm any dates you are unsure about, can help you avoid missing something important.
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.