What changes when appraisal is demanded
Before a demand, a disputed claim is a conversation: you send photos, the adjuster revises, somebody waits on a reinspection. After a demand, the policy turns that conversation into a small panel. Each side names its own appraiser, the two appraisers pick an umpire, and a written agreement signed by any two of the three sets the amount of loss. Most Wyoming homeowners and commercial forms use some version of that wording, though the exact deadlines and qualifications differ from carrier to carrier.
Appraisal clause representation means we are the appraiser you name on that panel. We are retained by you, we are paid by you, and our job is to establish what the covered damage actually costs to repair at today’s prices in your part of the state.
What we do from the day you name us
- Confirm the clock. We read the appraisal paragraph, the demand letter and any reply, and note every window: days to name an appraiser, days to agree on an umpire, any requirement for a sworn proof of loss first.
- Scope it ourselves. We inspect and measure the property in person — every roof facet, every elevation of siding, every room on the interior — instead of editing the carrier’s estimate.
- Price it locally. A crew in Rock Springs or Jackson does not cost what a crew in Cheyenne costs, and travel, lodging and short construction seasons all move the number. Our line items reflect that.
- Work the differences. We meet the carrier’s appraiser, ideally on site, and resolve as many line items as the evidence allows.
- Present to the umpire anything left over, with measurements, photographs and pricing support for each item.
- Check the award form so replacement cost, depreciation and actual cash value are separated by coverage before anyone signs.
Who should — and shouldn’t — be your appraiser
Most policies require an appraiser who is “competent” and “disinterested” or “independent.” Someone who will also be paid to do the repairs, or whose fee depends on the size of the award, invites a challenge to the award later. We disclose relationships with the other appraiser and the proposed umpire at the start, and we put our fee arrangement in writing.
What a strong file looks like before the demand
The best time to talk to us is before anyone sends a demand. A panel can only work with evidence, so we often recommend opening up a wet wall, getting a roof measured, or pulling a weather report for the date of loss first. Fifteen minutes on the phone usually tells us whether your claim is ready.
Questions about appraisal clause representation
Can I name an appraiser after the insurance company demands appraisal?
Yes. Either side can demand appraisal, and the other side then names its own appraiser, usually within a window set in the policy. Check your form for the exact number of days and calendar it the day the demand arrives.
Does my contractor make a good appraiser?
Usually not. Most policies require the appraiser to be independent or disinterested, and a contractor who will be paid for the repair has a stake in the outcome. That can give the other side a reason to challenge the award.
How long does appraisal take in Wyoming?
A straightforward residential panel often finishes within two to three months of both appraisers being named. Winter access, large commercial losses and contents-heavy claims can stretch that.