Finding the Best Insurance Appraiser to Represent You and Your Property During the Florida Insurance Appraisal Process 

The insurance appraisal process is an option designed to settle cost discrepancies for your loss, and Trust Public Adjusting Group has extensive experience in this option. Public adjusters can serve as insurance appraisers and umpires. We engage in the appraisal process weekly and maintain a broad network of relationships with opposing appraisers and umpires. This network is crucial for achieving a positive outcome in the appraisal process.

What is Appraisal? 

The appraisal process involves bringing in impartial professionals to assess the damage and determine fair compensation.

  • Two Qualified Appraisers: One chosen and paid for by you, and one chosen and paid for by your insurance company.
  • Neutral Umpire: If the appraisers cannot agree, a neutral third party (paid for by both you and the carrier) is selected by the appraisers is called in to make the final decision. Two signatures of the panel of three will create a binding award.

A Straightforward Process:

  1. Selecting Your Appraiser: Choosing a qualified appraiser to represent your interests is crucial. Their cost/fee’s and network (within the appraisal community) can significantly impact the process and outcome.
  2. Finding Neutral Ground: The two appraisers select a neutral umpire who will make the final decision if needed.
  3. Independent Damage Assessment: Each appraiser inspects the damage independently and determines a fair compensation amount.
  4. Negotiating a Fair Settlement: The appraisers present their findings and negotiate to reach a mutually agreeable compensation amount.
  5. The Umpire’s Role: If no agreement is reached, the umpire reviews all evidence and makes a binding decision.

Binding Resolution 

The appraisal process is binding, meaning both parties must accept the final decision, known as the “award.” Only two signatures from the three-member panel (the two appraisers and the umpire) are needed to finalize the award. The insurance company must pay this amount, and you must accept it as full compensation for your loss.

Are You Ready for Appraisal? 

If your insurance company invokes appraisal and it’s in your policy, you must comply. Otherwise, you can strategically invoke appraisal at the right time during the claim process. Consult with a public adjuster before considering this option. IN general, the appraisal option can be considered if you answer “yes” to these questions:

  • Do you have a repair estimate for the damage?
  • Do you have the insurance company’s estimate?
  • Is the difference between the estimates more than $500?

 

How Can Florida Property Owners Get the Best Help from an Insurance Appraiser? 

If you are in a forced appraisal situation (where the insurance carrier invoked appraisal and it’s in your policy), it is vital to involve Trust Public Adjusting Group. Hiring the right insurance appraiser, one with relationships with opposing appraisers and the umpire, can significantly influence the duration and outcome of the process. Trust Public Adjusting Group can guide you through each step, advocate for your rights, and ensure you hire the right appraiser for your property. Contact us today for a free consultation by calling 386-456-6885 or completing our online help form. Our experienced team is ready to fight for you.