Dispute & Appeal

Appraisal Clause Representation

When carriers and homeowners disagree on the scope or price, Drew represents your side in the formal appraisal process—picking an appraiser, presenting your case, and securing a fair umpire decision.

When Insurance Companies and Homeowners Can't Agree on Price or Scope

Almost every homeowners insurance policy includes an Appraisal Clause—a formal dispute resolution process that lets you hire your own appraiser to challenge the carrier's settlement. If the carrier's offer is significantly lower than what you need to rebuild, appraisal is often the fastest, most cost-effective way to get a fair resolution.

How the Appraisal Process Works

1

Write-Up

Drew prepares a comprehensive scope and estimate that documents every item of damage, including hidden damage, code upgrades, and proper market pricing.

2

Pick an Appraiser

You hire Drew as your appraiser. The carrier picks their own. Both parties are now bound by the process.

3

Pick an Umpire

If your appraiser and the carrier's appraiser can't agree, you jointly select a neutral umpire. This trio has the authority to make a binding decision.

4

Hearing & Decision

We present your case, challenge the carrier's scope, and negotiate with the other appraiser and umpire until a fair settlement is reached.

Why You Need a Public Adjuster in Appraisal

Carriers send experienced adjusters to every appraisal. They know the process, the rules, and how to minimize payouts. Without representation, homeowners are at a severe disadvantage. Drew has 10+ years of appraisal experience and has helped clients recover hundreds of thousands in additional settlements.

Technical Documentation

Engineering-grade scoping with Xactimate profiles, photos, and measurements that carriers can't easily dismiss.

Negotiation Expertise

We know how to pressure points in the appraisal hearing, what arguments work, and when to escalate to the umpire.

Binding Authority

The appraisal decision is legally binding. Once we win, the carrier must pay. No more back-and-forth emails or phone calls.

Cost-Effective

Appraisal fees are typically split between you and the carrier. Drew's PA fee is only a percentage of the additional recovery.

When Appraisal Makes Sense

  • Carrier's offer is 20%+ below your contractor's bid
  • Carrier is disputing scope of damage or coverage items
  • You suspect hidden damage the carrier's adjuster missed
  • Carrier is applying outdated pricing or insufficient quantities
  • You want a binding decision without going to court

Ready to Challenge the Carrier's Offer?

Appraisal is time-sensitive. Most policies require you to request it within a specific window after the carrier's denial or low offer. Don't wait—contact Drew to evaluate your case.

Start Your Appraisal

Frequently Asked Questions

What does appraisal cost?

Appraisal fees are typically split between you and the carrier. Drew's public adjusting fee is only a percentage of the additional money we recover for you. You pay nothing upfront.

How long does the appraisal process take?

Most appraisals resolve in 4-8 weeks from start to finish. Complex cases with multiple parties or extensive documentation may take longer.

Is the appraisal decision final?

Yes. The appraisal panel's decision is legally binding under your policy terms. The carrier must pay the agreed amount. It's one of the fastest ways to resolve a dispute without litigation.

Can I use appraisal if my claim was already denied?

Appraisal typically applies to disagreements over price or scope, not coverage disputes. If the carrier denied your claim entirely based on a coverage exclusion, we'd need to pursue a different appeals process. We'll evaluate your case first.