Texas Insurance Appraisal Services
When your insurance company underpays or disputes your claim, the appraisal clause gives you a powerful tool for resolution — faster, cheaper, and more effective than litigation.
Most Texas insurance policies include an appraisal clause — a built-in dispute resolution mechanism that most policyholders never use. Here's how it works and why it's often your best option.
The appraisal clause allows either party — you or the insurance company — to demand an independent appraisal when there's a disagreement about the value of a loss.
This is different from a coverage dispute. Appraisal resolves how much the damage costs — not whether it's covered.
Once the appraisal process concludes, the award is binding on both parties.
When to Use Appraisal
- Insurance estimate seems too low
- Insurer and contractor estimates are far apart
- Negotiation has stalled with the insurance company
- You want faster resolution than litigation
- You want a binding decision without going to court
Why go through years of expensive litigation when appraisal can resolve your dispute in 30-90 days?
⏱️ Insurance Appraisal
- 30-90 days to resolution
- Significantly lower costs
- Binding decision — no appeals
- No court or attorney required
- Professional expertise applied
- Preserves insurance relationship
⚖️ Litigation
- 1-3+ years to resolution
- High attorney and court costs
- Uncertain jury/judge outcome
- Court involvement required
- Stressful, time-consuming process
- May terminate insurance relationship
Appraisal Demanded
Either you or the insurance company submits a written demand for appraisal. Review your policy for specific language and deadlines.
You Select Your Appraiser
You hire a licensed, competent appraiser to represent your interests. This is where choosing First Call makes a critical difference.
Insurance Company Selects Their Appraiser
The insurer hires their own appraiser, typically within 20 days of your demand.
Appraisers Attempt to Agree
Both appraisers inspect the property and review documentation. In many cases, they reach agreement without an umpire.
Umpire (If Needed)
If the appraisers disagree, they jointly select a neutral umpire. An award from any two of the three parties is binding.
Payment
Once the award is issued, the insurance company must pay within the timeframe specified in your policy — typically within 5-20 days.
Homeowners
If your insurance company underpaid your claim, appraisal can get you the full settlement — without going to court.
Contractors
When insurance companies reduce your estimates, appraisal ensures your full scope gets paid so you can do the job right.
Commercial Property
Large commercial losses involve significant disputes. Appraisal provides professional, binding resolution efficiently.
Is Appraisal Right for Your Situation?
Call us for a free consultation. We'll review your claim and tell you honestly whether appraisal is your best path forward.
TX License #1921679 · OK License #3000772279 · CO License #906301