Frequently Asked Questions
What is the appraisal clause, exactly?
A provision inside almost every property insurance policy that lets either party force a Independent, binding resolution of a dispute over the amount of loss. Each side picks an appraiser; the two appraisers pick a neutral umpire; any two of the three sign a binding award.
Will I have to go to court?
Almost never. The whole point of the appraisal clause is to resolve amount-of-loss disputes without litigation. The only times court comes in are (a) if the parties cannot agree on an umpire, a judge can appoint one, or (b) if fraud or misconduct is alleged against the award — very rare.
How is this different from hiring a public adjuster?
Public adjusters represent the policyholder during the claim negotiation. Appraisers are formally named under the appraisal clause once a dispute has been invoked — we operate under the policy itself, with specific duties of impartiality. You can have both roles on one claim; they do different work.
How long does an appraisal take?
Most appraisals resolve within 30 to 90 days from the time both appraisers are appointed. Complex losses or cases that proceed to an umpire can take longer. The biggest factor outside our control is how quickly the insurance company appoints their own appraiser. We move efficiently on our end!
What does it cost?
You pay your own appraiser directly. Typical flat fees run $1,500–$5,000 depending on the complexity of the loss, and the exact fee is always disclosed in writing before you sign anything. If the dispute reaches the umpire stage, the umpire fee is split 50/50 between both parties.
If the claim requires an expert such as an engineer, industrial hygienist, or other specialist, or if travel outside our standard service area is necessary, those costs would be discussed and agreed upon separately before any work begins.
Can my carrier drop me for invoking the clause?
No. Invoking an explicit contract right in your policy is not grounds for non-renewal in Kentucky. If you experience retaliation, the Kentucky Department of Insurance has jurisdiction and we can point you to the right complaint forms.
Do you handle commercial claims?
Yes. small retail, multifamily, warehouse, and some light industrial.
Do you work with my contractor?
Absolutely. Contractors know the building and we want to hear their input. Joint site walks produce the strongest appraisal files and we take your contractor's knowledge and concerns seriously. That said, our scope and conclusion remain our own independent determination.
What areas do you serve?
We serve all of Kentucky and the surrounding region, including southern Illinois, southern Indiana, northwest Tennessee, and southeast Missouri. Claims within 60 miles of our Paducah, Kentucky office carry no travel fee. Beyond that, a travel fee will be calculated and disclosed in writing before you sign anything.
