Does Appraisal Decide Whether My Claim Is Covered?

Where coverage questions go instead

Coverage questions stay between you and your carrier, and where they are disputed, with your attorney.

What appraisal does settle

Each side names an appraiser, the two appraisers select an umpire, and when any two of the three agree on a number, that number generally binds both sides as to the amount of the loss.

What the umpire decides

The umpire decides the amount, not whether the claim is covered.

There is more on the role on umpire services, and a short answer on what an umpire does.

Who this page is for

Property owners deciding whether appraisal fits their situation, and the contractors, public adjusters and attorneys advising them on which route to take.

If a letter has already arrived

A demand letter usually means appraisal is being invoked, and a response may be expected within a time set by your policy. Read it closely, do not ignore it, and get advice before that window closes.

Our appraisal demand letter guide walks through it.