Insurance carriers regularly work with independent appraisers as part of the appraisal process, and understanding this relationship can help clarify how the process is generally intended to function.
An independent appraiser selected by a carrier is still expected to meet the same competent and disinterested standard as an appraiser selected by a policyholder, meaning their evaluation should be based on the facts of the loss rather than serving purely as an advocate for the carrier’s preferred outcome.
Carriers typically provide their selected appraiser with relevant claim documentation, such as prior estimates, adjuster notes, and policy information, to support a thorough and informed evaluation.
Throughout the process, the carrier generally relies on its appraiser’s independent professional judgment, informed by direct inspection and documentation review, rather than directing the specific outcome of the evaluation.
This structure, with each side relying on an independent appraiser’s genuine professional judgment, is intended to help ensure the overall appraisal process produces a fair and well supported result for both the carrier and the policyholder.
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.