In the event of material disagreement or stalemate between you and your insurance company over scope of damage, scope of work or pricing of the same, either party, you or the insurance company, may elect to invoke the “appraisal clause”. 

The appraisal clause is a settlement provision(term) of the insuring agreement which lays out a method for resolving disagreement before litigation is seriously considered. This clause in the insurance contract allows each part to retain an appraiser (not a real estate appraiser) to present evidence in support of each of their positions. The insurance company will hire an appraiser to present their case and you will hire an appraiser to present yours. The two appraisers will first agree upon an umpire. The cost of the umpire is shared by both the insurance company and you. Any two of the three - the umpire and two appraisers - who reach agreement on the merits of the claim - that agreement becomes binding upon both insurer and insured. If disagreement and/or appraisal become necessary, it is critical that your documentation be credible and comprehensive. 

FWR provides specialized content and structure damage appraisal services that are tailored to meet the specific needs of your claim. Let us know if we can provide you or your attorney with a consultation. 

Disclaimer: FWR Professionals, Div. is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or claim advocacy services. If you have questions about your policy language or the interpretation thereof, please review your insuring agreement and all endorsements with your insurance broker and/or retain the services of a competent attorney specializing in insurance matters.