Quick take
- An appraisal provision is policy language, not a universal legal right.
- It addresses the amount of loss — not whether a loss is covered.
- Typically each side selects an appraiser; an umpire may be involved depending on the policy.
- Timing, cost-sharing and procedure are set by the policy and can vary by state.
- Read your own policy before assuming appraisal is available to you.
What the provision generally does
Where a policy includes an appraisal provision, it usually gives the policyholder and the insurer a defined path for resolving a dispute about how much the loss is worth when they cannot agree. It is a valuation mechanism described in a contract — your policy — and the contract controls how it works.
Check your actual policy language. Provisions differ between insurers, between policy forms and over time, and state rules can affect how they operate.
How the process is typically described
- 01Each side selects an appraiserThe policyholder selects one appraiser and the insurer selects another, as described in the policy.
- 02The appraisers evaluate the amount of lossEach appraiser develops a value for the vehicle based on the evidence available.
- 03An umpire may become involvedWhere the appraisers do not agree, some policies describe the involvement of a third party, often called an umpire.
- 04The policy governs the outcomeWhat the result means, who pays which costs and how it is documented are all set out in the policy language.
What appraisal is not
- It is not a coverage decision — appraisal provisions generally address the amount of loss, not whether the loss is covered.
- It is not automatic; it exists only if your policy provides for it.
- It does not work identically in every state or under every policy form.
- It is not legal advice, and it is not a substitute for reading your policy.
What documents help
- Your complete policy, including the physical damage section and any endorsements
- The insurer's valuation report and written offer
- Your evidence of the vehicle's configuration, condition and market value
- All written correspondence with the insurer
When Auto Claim Plus may be able to help
Auto Claim Plus reviews valuations and prepares appraisal evidence. Whether an appraisal provision applies to your claim depends on your policy and state, and what we can do can vary accordingly. A free claim review is the fastest way to find out where your claim stands.
Reviewed by Scott Watson · Last updated August 14, 2026. General information only — not legal advice.