What is an Appraiser?
Insurance appraisers review damages, analyze supporting documentation, inspect property losses, and determine the appropriate value of an insurance claim. Their role is to provide an informed and defensible evaluation based on the facts of the loss and the terms of the insurance policy.
The Insurance Claim Process
1. Claim Is Reported
The policyholder reports damage or loss to the insurance company. This starts the claim process and opens a claim file.
2. Insurance Adjuster Investigation
An insurance adjuster inspects the damage, reviews the policy, gathers documents, and determines what the insurance company believes the claim is worth..
3. Settlement Offer
The adjuster provides a settlement estimate or payment offer based on their evaluation of the damages and policy coverage.
4. Dispute Arises
If the policyholder disagrees with the amount offered, either party can invoke the appraisal clause in the insurance policy.
5. Appraisers Are Selected
Both sides choose their own appraiser:
- The insurance company selects an appraiser.
- The policyholder selects an independent appraiser.
Each appraiser evaluates the loss and prepares their own estimate
6. Umpire Is Chosen
If the two appraisers cannot agree on the value of the claim, they select a neutral umpire to help resolve disagreements.
7. Appraisal Review
The appraisers attempt to reach an agreement. Any disputed items are submitted to the umpire for review and decision.
8. Final Award Issued
Once any two of the three parties (either both appraisers or one appraiser and the umpire) agree on the amount of loss, a binding appraisal award is issued.
9. Claim Payment
The insurance company pays the agreed-upon amount according to the policy terms and applicable deductibles.
Process
How We Help You
Industry Knowledge & Experience
A strong understanding of insurance policies, construction methods, repair costs, estimating practices, and claim procedures is essential for evaluating damages accurately.
Accurate Documentation & Evidence
Appraisers depend on photos, inspection reports, measurements, estimates, invoices, policy documents, and supporting records to properly assess the scope and value of a loss.
Communication & Negotiation Skills
Successful appraisers must communicate clearly with policyholders, carriers, contractors, attorneys, and umpires while negotiating fair and supportable claim outcomes.
Resonsabilities may include
Helping Ensure Fair and Accurate Claim Resolution
Inspecting residential and commercial property damage
Reviewing repair estimates and supporting documents
Evaluating the scope and extent of loss
Analyzing policy coverage related to the claim
Communicating with contractors, carriers, and policyholders
Preparing detailed claim evaluations and documentation
Participating in the appraisal process to resolve disputes
Why Experience Matters
A knowledgeable appraiser brings more than just estimates to the table. Experience in insurance, construction, estimating, and claims handling allows appraisers to accurately assess damages and identify important details that may impact claim outcomes.
At Stratus, our team combines industry expertise with a professional, detail-oriented approach to every assignment.