Frequently Asked Questions

Insurance appraisal is a formal process outlined in most property insurance policies. It is used when there is a disagreement over the scope or cost of damage, not over whether the damage is covered.

Through appraisal, both sides appoint independent appraisers to evaluate the loss and work toward a fair, policy-backed resolution.

No. Appraisal is a specific process defined in the insurance policy, while public adjusting involves negotiating a claim on your behalf.

Team Riley Adjusting focuses on insurance appraisal only. Our role is to guide the appraisal process and help ensure damage is evaluated accurately and objectively.

In many cases, appraisal helps move stalled claims forward by providing clarity and structure. When disagreements over scope or cost are resolved, repairs can often proceed more efficiently.

No. Appraisal is a policy-approved method for resolving valuation disagreements. It is not adversarial or legal action — it’s simply a structured way to reach agreement when estimates don’t align.

Appraisal may be appropriate when:

• Damage is acknowledged but undervalued

• Partial repairs are approved when full replacement is warranted

• Key elements of the loss are overlooked

• Estimates differ significantly from actual repair costs

Coverage must exist, and the disagreement must be about value — not eligibility.

Both the policyholder and the insurance company select their own independent appraiser, as outlined in the policy.

Yes. Once the appraisal process is complete, the agreed scope and estimate are binding under the terms of the insurance policy.

No. Appraisal is not a legal process and does not require litigation or legal representation.

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of the loss and scheduling, but appraisal often provides a more direct path to resolution than prolonged claim disputes.

A free claim review includes an initial evaluation of your insurance estimate and available documentation to determine whether appraisal may be appropriate. There is no obligation to proceed.

The best way to know is to start with a free claim review. Team Riley Adjusting will help you understand whether appraisal applies and explain your options clearly.