Resource Center
Right of Appraisal & Insurance Appraisal Clause Resource Center
Educational guides on the auto insurance appraisal process — for vehicle owners, carriers, attorneys, appraisers, and industry professionals.
Understanding the Insurance Appraisal Process
When a disagreement arises over a vehicle's value or the amount of a loss, some insurance policies contain an appraisal provision that may provide a structured process for resolving that dispute. Rather than having each side simply advocate indefinitely for its position, an applicable appraisal clause can establish a defined procedure for reaching a resolution.
The exact procedure, scope, and requirements of any appraisal process come from the specific insurance policy and applicable law — not from a universal standard. Parties should always review the actual policy language and, when appropriate, seek qualified legal guidance.
The articles in this Resource Center are intended to provide general educational information about how appraisal provisions commonly work. They are not legal advice and do not substitute for a review of the applicable policy and law.
How the Appraisal Process Typically Works
This is a general illustration of how appraisal provisions commonly work. Actual procedures, requirements, and scope vary by insurance policy and jurisdiction.
Disagreement arises over vehicle value or amount of loss
Review the applicable insurance policy and appraisal provision
Appraisal is demanded or invoked when applicable under the policy
Each side selects an appraiser according to the provision
Appraisers exchange and review valuation evidence
Appraisers attempt to reach agreement on the disputed amount
If agreement cannot be reached, an umpire may become involved per the policy
An appraisal award or agreement is reached per the applicable policy
Educational Articles
Browse the full collection of educational guides on the auto insurance appraisal process.
The information provided in the A1 Auto Appraisals Resource Center is for general educational purposes and is not legal advice. Insurance policies, appraisal provisions, claim circumstances, and applicable laws vary. Parties should review the applicable insurance policy and seek qualified legal guidance when necessary regarding contractual or legal rights.
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