An insurance appraisal is a neutral process to resolve disputes over the value of a claim when the policyholder and insurer disagree on the amount of loss or scope of damages. It involves independent insurance claims appraisers assessing the property to determine replacement cost or actual cash value, serving as an alternative to litigation.

You should invoke insurance claims appraisers when there's a clear disagreement on the claim's value, such as after the insurer's estimate seems too low or ignores full damages, and negotiations stall. It's ideal for property damage claims like storms or fires, but only for valuation disputes, not coverage denials.

Each party (policyholder and insurer) selects competent, impartial insurance claims umpires. The two appraisers then choose a neutral umpire if needed. They inspect the damage, evaluate the loss based on evidence like pre-loss condition and market data, and agree on a binding award (majority rules). The process typically takes weeks to months.