The basics
What is insurance appraisal?
A process written into most property policies for settling disagreements about the amount of a covered loss. Each side names an appraiser, the appraisers choose an umpire, and an award signed by any two of the three sets the amount.
Is appraisal the same as arbitration?
No. Appraisal is narrower. It decides the amount of loss, not legal questions such as coverage or bad faith, and it’s usually less formal than arbitration.
Does every New Jersey policy have an appraisal clause?
Most homeowners, condo, landlord and commercial property policies do. Flood policies under the National Flood Insurance Program follow federal rules and handle appraisal differently. Check the conditions section of your policy.
Can appraisal decide whether my damage is covered?
Generally no. Coverage questions are for the insurer, an attorney and, if needed, a court. Appraisal values the loss.
Timing and deadlines
How long does appraisal take?
Many residential claims resolve within two to four months after both appraisers are named. Large commercial losses and claims that need an umpire decision can take longer.
How long do I have to demand appraisal?
Policies rarely set a deadline to demand appraisal itself, but other deadlines keep running, including the suit-limitation period, which is often 12 months in New Jersey. Don’t wait to protect those dates.
Does demanding appraisal stop the suit deadline?
Not automatically. New Jersey courts have allowed the suit period to pause while a claim is under review, but how that applies to you is a question for an attorney.
Costs
How are appraisers paid?
Each side pays its own appraiser. Fees may be flat, hourly or a percentage of the increase. The umpire is usually split equally. Get the terms in writing.
Is appraisal worth it for a small gap?
Often not. When the gap is a few thousand dollars, fees can eat most of the gain. Our claim gap estimator shows the net at different outcomes.
Is your first consultation free?
Yes. We review your situation and tell you honestly whether appraisal is likely to help.
New Jersey specifics
Who regulates insurance in New Jersey?
The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance. It handles consumer complaints, licenses insurance professionals including public adjusters, and oversees insurers doing business in the state.
What is the New Jersey FAIR Plan?
The New Jersey Insurance Underwriting Association offers basic property coverage to owners who can’t find it in the regular market, including some shore properties. Its policies include appraisal language.
Do hurricane deductibles apply to nor’easters?
Usually not. Hurricane deductibles apply only when the policy’s trigger is met. After Sandy, the state said they shouldn’t apply because Sandy wasn’t a hurricane at landfall. Read your endorsement.
Are you public adjusters?
No. Public adjusters are licensed by the state to handle and negotiate claims. We work as appraisers within the appraisal clause, as estimators and as umpires.
Working with us
What should I send for a first review?
The declarations page, the carrier’s full estimate, any letters from the carrier, your photos and your contractor’s estimate if you have one.
Do you travel to the property?
Yes. We inspect throughout New Jersey, from Sussex County to Cape May.
Will you tell me if appraisal isn’t right?
Yes. If an attorney, a public adjuster or a simple supplement request would serve you better, we’ll say so.