F.A.Q.
What does an insurance appraiser do?
When you hire us as your appraiser, we represent your interests in a dispute with your insurance company. We inspect the property, document the full scope of damage, build a detailed estimate, and communicate with the insurer’s appraiser to reach a fair valuation.
Why should I hire an appraiser instead of handling it myself?
The insurance company has experts working on their side. You deserve an expert working for you. We handle the technical work, the documentation, the back-and-forth, and understand the specific language of insurance. With Atlas Claims on your side, you don’t have to navigate unfamiliar territory alone.
What makes our service different from other appraisers?
When your property requires physical inspection, we carefully review the damage and document every line item. Atlas Claims has years of construction experience. Our calculations are based on real-world repair methods and costs. We know firsthand how to prepare a fair valuation.
When should I hire an appraiser?
You should hire an appraiser when you disagree with the insurance company’s settlement amount. If you feel inspectors missed or undervalued items, contact Atlas Claims for help.
How is an appraiser different from an adjuster?
Most adjusters (staff or independant) work on behalf of the insurance company to manage the claim process. Public Adjusters are hired by you, the property owner, to assist with the filing and negotiation of your claim. Appraisers are independent experts brought in specifically to resolve a dispute over the amount of loss. While an adjuster manages the claim lifecycle, the appraiser focuses strictly on providing an objective, documented valuation of the damage.
Do we negotiate with the insurance company for you?
Yes, but only on valuation issues. Appraisers don’t make decisions about coverage or liability. Our role at Atlas Claims is to determine the cost of repairs and advocate for an accurate valuation of the damages.
How do we advocate for you during the process?
Atlas Claims creates estimates, conducts inspections, provides documentation and follows up to make sure a fair valuation is reached. In the rare case when an umpire is required, we would present the evidence we’ve collected. As your advocate, we handle the details so you don’t have to.
How long does the appraisal process take?
The timeline can vary depending on the specifics of the claim and cooperation from insurance companies. At Atlas Claims, we keep detailed and meticulous records so your claim can be resolved as quickly as possible.
What if the insurance company’s appraiser disagrees with our estimate?
Often the two appraisers don’t agree. When this happens, they negotiate until they can come to an agreement. In the infrequent cases when they can’t come to an agreement after both sides have made a good-faith effort, a neutral umpire is hired to make the decision.
Do you need to be present at the inspection?
No, as long as we have access and pets are secured, we can handle the inspection independently. You’re welcome to attend if you prefer.
What does it cost to hire us?
Fees vary depending on the claim. We review everything with you before the inspection begins so you know the price in advance. We don’t have hidden fees or surprises.
How will you keep me updated?
You’ll receive updates letting you know when your insurance company has named an appraiser to represent them and when the inspection is scheduled. You are also welcome to call the office or email for status updates at any time.
Will hiring an appraiser guarantee a higher payout?
We can’t guarantee a higher payout, but we can guarantee a complete, accurate, well-documented valuation supported by evidence. Most policyholders see an increased award.
Can the insurance company refuse the appraisal process?
If your policy contains an appraisal clause, they cannot deny it. They can delay, stall, or drag their feet, but they cannot refuse your contractual right to invoke appraisal.
What happens after the appraisal award is issued?
Atlas Claims helps you understand the award, explains depreciation, and outlines what the insurance company still owes. If recoverable depreciation applies, we’ll show you what documents you need to submit to collect it.
A Note About the Scope of Our Services
Our Appraisers ARE:
- Independent insurance appraisers
Our Appraisers ARE NOT:
- Public adjusters
- Attorneys (We don't give legal advice)
- Insurance policy experts (We don't interpret policy language)
Important Facts About Appraisals
Appraisals ARE:
- A formal investigation of damage performed when a policyholder and an insurance company disagree
- A process that involves 2 (occasionally 3) independent appraisers, selected by each party (the insured and the insurance company)
Appraisals ARE NOT:
- Examination of insurance coverage
- Investigation into why a claim was denied