Steps to Invoke the Appraisal Clause

The appraisal clause is a critical component of most insurance policies, providing a structured process for resolving disputes over the value of a claim. This clause is designed to protect policyholders and insurers alike by offering a fair and impartial mechanism for determining disputed loss amounts. When disagreements arise, invoking the appraisal clause allows both parties to appoint independent appraisers and, if necessary, an umpire to arrive at a binding resolution. 

1) Contact the IAS Claims team for a free consultation to see if your claim is a good candidate to invoke the Appraisal Clause.

2) Retain our firm as your appointed appraiser to represent you in this claim. Our company and appraiser information will need to be given to your insurance carrier at the 1st notification of appraisal.

3) Contact your insurance company in writing, stating that you are invoking your appraisal right due to the inability to reach a mutually agreeable settlement. (This is the typical way to invoke an Appraisal Clause, but it’s a good idea to review your insurance policy for specific language that describes how to invoke the Appraisal Clause.)

4) Your insurance company will respond and choose an independent appraiser to appraise your vehicle and contact our company.

5) Your IAS Claims appraiser and the insurance company appraiser share their results and will attempt to come to an agreement. Both appraisers are required to agree on an umpire within 14 days of their initial contact. In the unlikely event that the appraisers can’t come to an agreement, the chosen umpire will decide the final award. The umpire’s decision is final.

6) How much does it cost? Auto Appraisal Clause fees start at $295.00 for a normal auto. Specialty vehicles & property damage claims are billed at $150 an hour. Specialty vehicles would include RV’s, Heavy Equipment, Semi Trucks, Classic autos, Motorcycles etc. Umpire fees can range depending on the claim & are split between the insured and insurance company.

For more information on the Appraisal Clause process, or to see if your claim is a good candidate, please contact our office for a free consultation.