What happens after the appraisal clause of a policy is invoked and in process?
Short answer. Once appraisal is invoked, each side names its appraiser, the appraisers choose an umpire, and they inspect the property, exchange estimates and try to agree on the amount of loss. If they cannot agree, the umpire decides the disputed items, and an award signed by any two of the three sets the amount the insurer owes, often within a few weeks to a few months.
What happens, in order
- Appraisers named. Each side identifies its appraiser in writing within the time the policy allows, commonly 20 days.
- Umpire selected. The appraisers agree on an umpire, or either side asks a court to appoint one if they cannot.
- Inspection. The appraisers inspect the roof and any other damage, together or separately with notice.
- Exchange of estimates. Each appraiser presents an itemized estimate, and differences get narrowed line by line.
- Umpire involvement. Items the appraisers cannot agree on go to the umpire.
- Award. A written award signed by two of the three is sent to both sides.
- Payment. The insurer pays the award minus the deductible, prior payments and, where it applies, held-back depreciation.
What to do while it is in process
- Protect the property. Keep tarps in place and stop active leaks; your duty to mitigate continues.
- Hold off on replacement until the appraisers have inspected, unless your appraiser confirms the evidence is fully documented.
- Route communication about the amount through your appraiser.
- Keep records of every fee, letter and date.
What can slow it down
Disputes over the umpire, scheduling conflicts, and arguments that some damage is not covered at all. Coverage questions usually sit outside appraisal, so an insurer may still dispute some items on coverage grounds after the award.
After the award
Payment should follow promptly; Georgia's claim rules require payment within 10 days once coverage is confirmed and the amount is determined and not in dispute. Then the usual steps apply: complete the work and claim any recoverable depreciation. For background, see appraisal on roof claims.