Appraisal & Mediation
Resolving Financial Disagreements with Insurers
When discussions over a claim’s value stall, a new path is often required to reach a fair outcome. At Clear Loss Consultants, we guide our clients through formal dispute resolution channels, such as appraisal and mediation. These processes are distinct from direct negotiation and are specifically designed to resolve disagreements about a settlement amount without resorting to litigation. We provide expert representation to ensure these final avenues for resolution are used to your full advantage.
The Appraisal Path to a Fair Value
Insurance appraisal is a well-established process used when the policyholder and insurer disagree only on the amount of loss. It is a formal, binding procedure. We step in as your designated appraiser, using our independent evaluation and detailed evidence to support our proposed repair and replacement costs. We then work with the insurer’s appraiser to agree on a third, impartial umpire. The final settlement is determined by a vote of at least two of these three individuals. This system is a powerful and efficient way to bypass a deadlock on the financial value of your claim.
How We Represent You in Appraisal
- Our function in this process is to be your expert voice and advocate. We bring a detailed scope of damages, backed by precise cost estimates, to the table. Our role is to articulate and defend the true value of your loss, ensuring the neutral umpire has a clear, compelling picture of the financial recovery you require. This professional representation ensures the appraisal process leads to an accurate, equitable result, rather than a compromise based on the insurer's low offer.
Finding Common Ground Through Mediation
Mediation is an alternative method for resolving disagreements that is less formal and not legally binding. A neutral third party, called a mediator, facilitates a conversation between you and your insurer. Their goal is not to decide who is right or wrong, but to help both sides reach a voluntary and mutually agreeable compromise. We are present throughout this process to support you. We help you understand the insurer’s position, effectively present your case, and make informed decisions on any proposed settlement, ensuring you don’t agree to anything that shortchanges your business.
Break the Stalemate and Move Forward
- If your claim has reached an impasse, these options provide a way to move beyond negotiation and achieve a final resolution. We provide the expertise you need to confidently navigate these procedures and secure the outcome your business deserves.
- Service Areas: Dallas · Tyler · Longview
- (972) 948-6083
- [email protected]
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Frequently Asked Questions
The core distinction lies in their purpose and outcome. Appraisal is a formal procedure used solely to settle a disagreement over the financial value of a loss. The outcome is a binding decision on the final settlement amount. Mediation is a more flexible process where a neutral facilitator helps both parties find a common ground and a mutually acceptable solution. The outcome of mediation is not binding unless both sides voluntarily agree to the terms.
You should consider these avenues when all direct negotiation efforts have failed to produce an acceptable outcome. Your commercial policy often contains language specifying your right to pursue appraisal or mediation when a significant financial disagreement exists. We can help you determine if your situation is a good fit for either of these final methods for resolution.
Both appraisal and mediation are typically much more cost-effective and faster than pursuing a lawsuit. In appraisal, both sides are usually responsible for the cost of their own chosen appraiser and split the fee for the umpire. In mediation, the costs of the neutral mediator are generally shared by both the insurer and the policyholder. We can give you a clear breakdown of these expenses during our initial consultation.