Insurance appraisal basics
What is insurance appraisal?
A dispute-resolution process written into most property insurance policies. When you and your insurer agree a loss is covered but disagree on the amount, each side names an appraiser, the appraisers choose an umpire, and any two of the three set the amount of loss in a binding award.
Is an insurance appraiser the same as a home appraiser?
No. A real-estate appraiser estimates market value for a sale or refinance. An insurance appraiser values the cost to repair or replace damaged property under the terms of an insurance policy.
Is appraisal the same as arbitration?
They’re similar but not the same. Appraisal is narrower — it typically decides only the amount of loss, not legal or coverage questions — and it follows the procedure written into your policy rather than formal arbitration rules.
Who can request appraisal?
Either party: you or the insurance company. The request must be made in writing and should reference the appraisal provision in your policy.
Is the appraisal award binding?
On the amount of loss, generally yes — once two of the three panel members sign. Courts can set aside awards in limited situations, such as fraud or a panel exceeding its authority.
Costs and timing
How much does a Georgia insurance appraiser cost?
Arrangements vary: flat fees, hourly rates and, in some cases, a percentage of the increase. Each side pays its own appraiser and usually half the umpire. Get the fee in writing before you sign anything.
How long does the appraisal process take?
A typical residential claim takes six to twelve weeks once both appraisers are named. Complex commercial losses, large contents claims or panels that need an umpire hearing can take longer.
Is there a deadline to request appraisal?
Some policies set one; many don’t. But your policy’s suit-limitation clause still applies — Georgia homeowner policies commonly use two years from the date of loss. Don’t let appraisal run out that clock.
Is appraisal worth it for a small gap?
Often not. If the difference is a few thousand dollars, appraisal fees can absorb most of it. Our appraisal value estimator helps you test the math before you decide.
Working with us
Do you work for the insurance company?
When we’re your appointed appraiser, we’re retained by you. We also serve as neutral umpires on separate claims where we represent neither side.
Are you a public adjuster or a law firm?
Neither. We don’t negotiate claims outside the appraisal process and we don’t provide legal advice. If you need a public adjuster or attorney, we’ll tell you.
Do you work throughout Georgia?
Yes, statewide — all 159 counties, from Dade County in the northwest corner to Camden County on the coast.
What should I send before a consultation?
Your declarations page, the full insurance estimate, any letters from the carrier, photos and your contractor’s estimate if you have one.
Can you help after a claim is closed?
Often, yes. A closed claim can usually be reopened with new information if policy deadlines haven’t passed. We review your dates first.
Georgia-specific questions
Does Georgia require insurance appraisers to be licensed?
Georgia licenses public adjusters and independent adjusters through the Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire. Appraisal panel members are selected under the policy’s terms; ask any appraiser about relevant credentials and experience.
What is Georgia’s bad-faith statute?
O.C.G.A. § 33-4-6 allows additional penalties and attorney’s fees when an insurer refuses in bad faith to pay a covered loss within 60 days of a proper demand. That’s a legal remedy outside appraisal — talk to an attorney about it.
Where can I file a complaint about my insurer in Georgia?
With the Georgia Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire, which handles consumer complaints against insurers licensed in the state.