The appraisal process on a Florida property claim
When you and your insurance company agree the damage is covered but disagree on how much it costs to fix, your policy may offer a way to settle the number: appraisal. Here's how it works.
Short answer: Appraisal is a process in most Florida property policies for settling a disagreement about the amount of a loss. Each side chooses an appraiser, the two appraisers choose an umpire, and an agreement signed by any two of the three sets the amount. Appraisal decides how much, not whether the damage is covered. Each side usually pays its own appraiser and shares the umpire's cost.
When appraisal applies
- Yes: the insurance company accepts that the damage is covered, but its estimate is lower than yours, for example on the price of a roof or how much flooring has to be replaced.
- No: the insurance company denies coverage, for example it says the cause is excluded or the policy wasn't in force. Appraisal doesn't decide coverage.
The rules come from the appraisal clause in your policy, so read it first: some policies make appraisal optional, and the steps and deadlines vary.
How it usually works
- Written demand. You or the insurance company asks for appraisal in writing, as the policy requires.
- Each side chooses an appraiser. Policies usually require a competent and impartial appraiser, chosen within a set number of days.
- The appraisers choose an umpire. If they can't agree, the policy usually lets either side ask a court to appoint one.
- The appraisers estimate the loss, often item by item: roof, interior, contents.
- Differences go to the umpire. An award signed by any two of the three sets the amount of the loss.
- Payment. The insurance company pays the award according to the policy, minus the deductible and any prior payments.
Costs
Under most policies, each side pays its own appraiser and the umpire's fees are split. Ask for the costs in writing before you start, so you can weigh them against the amount in dispute.
Appraisal vs. DFS mediation
| Appraisal | DFS mediation | |
|---|---|---|
| Where it comes from | Your policy's appraisal clause | Florida law (Fla. Stat. § 627.7015), run by the Department of Financial Services |
| What it decides | The amount of the loss | Helps both sides reach an agreement; non-binding unless you settle |
| Who pays | Usually each side pays its appraiser and shares the umpire | Generally the insurance company pays the mediation costs |
| Result | A binding award on the amount | A settlement only if both sides agree |
For residential property claims, your insurance company must tell you about your right to DFS mediation when there's a dispute.
Where a public adjuster helps
The strongest appraisal starts with a well-documented claim: measurements, photos, moisture readings and a detailed, line-by-line estimate. That's the work we do on a claim. We can also explain what your appraisal clause says. We don't give legal advice; if your situation needs it, talk to an attorney.
How public adjuster fees work in Florida
The initial claim review is free. If you hire us, our fee is a percentage of what the insurance company pays on the claim, agreed in writing before you sign. Florida law caps public adjuster fees (Fla. Stat. § 626.854), and the cap can be lower for claims tied to a declared state of emergency, such as a hurricane. We tell you which limit applies to your claim.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Appraisal rights, steps and costs depend on the exact wording of your policy and on Florida law, which changes. Read your policy and consult an attorney for legal questions. We do not guarantee amounts or results.
Appraisal questions
What is appraisal in a Florida home insurance claim?
It's a process in the policy for settling a disagreement about the amount of a covered loss. Each side chooses an appraiser, they choose an umpire, and an award signed by two of the three sets the amount.
Can appraisal decide whether my damage is covered?
No. Appraisal decides the amount of the loss, not coverage. If the insurance company denies coverage, appraisal isn't the tool for that dispute.
Who pays for appraisal?
Under most policies, each side pays its own appraiser and the umpire's fees are shared. Check your policy's appraisal clause.
Is appraisal the same as mediation?
No. DFS mediation is a state program where a mediator helps both sides reach an agreement; it isn't binding unless you settle. Appraisal produces a binding award on the amount of the loss.
Do I need a public adjuster or an attorney for appraisal?
Neither is required. A public adjuster can help document and estimate the loss. For legal questions about your rights, talk to an attorney.