The appraisal process begins with you and the company each hiring an appraiser. The two appraisers then choose a third appraiser as the umpire. Your appraiser and the company's appraiser make their own estimates of your loss. If they are different, the umpire makes the final decision, which is binding on both you and the company. You are responsible for the expenses of the appraiser you hire and for half of the umpire's expenses. Check your policy for any deadlines to demand appraisal. If you need help finding an appraiser, search for a “property damage appraiser” or check with your contractor.
The process is simple, and begins with you writing a letter to your insurance company. Often times carriers will call you to confirm this is your letter and that your aware of associated cost. Please note that you might be asked to provide additional information to the insurance company. Please note the typical policy says they only have 20 days to name their appraiser. If you’ve sent your demand and haven’t heard back in 20 days call your adjuster and assert your desire to settle the claim in appraisal. They may have a reason for the delay in responding, but they are required to let you know what it is. please feel free to contact John Phillips with your questions he is licensed by the state as a Public Adjuster and he is more than willing to help.
Most, but not all, policies require that the appraiser be independent and disinterested. They may ask for information from us to prove we don’t work for your contractor, and that we are qualified to be an appraiser. We will gladly provide you with our resume and license information this should satisfy the policy requirements. They may also want your contractors estimate so they know the differances before agreeing to appraisal.
