An appraisal clause is part of every homeowner's policy. Typically it reads as follows:
APPRAISAL - If policy holder and the policy seller fail to agree on the amount of loss, either one can demand that the amount of the loss can be set by appraisal. If either makes a written demand for an appraisal, each shall select a competent, independent appraiser. Each shall notify the other of the appraiser's identity within 20 days of receipt of the written demand. The two appraisers shall then select a competent, impartial umpire. If the two appraisers are unable to agree upon an umpire within 15 days, the policy owner and the policy seller can ask a judge of a court of record in the state where the residence premises is located to select an umpire. The appraisers shall then set the amount of the loss. If the appraisers fail to agree within a reasonable time period, they shall submit their differences to the umpire. A written agreement signed by any two of these three shall set the amount of the loss.
If you exceed every possible source to fight for your settlement this is the last resort before taking it to court.We have been part of numerous appraisals and we have helped dozens of happy customers through the appraisal process.