How Florida appraisal works
Most Florida HO-3 and commercial property policies include an appraisal clause that looks substantially like this:
When appraisal helps
- The coverage is not in dispute (the carrier agrees the loss is covered)
- The dispute is about amount: scope, pricing, or depreciation
- Both parties have documentation
- Settlement range is apparent even if specific number isn't
- You want a binding resolution without litigation
When appraisal doesn't help (or may hurt)
- Coverage disputes (whether the loss is covered at all): appraisal only decides amount
- Bad-faith claims (belong in court)
- Claims already in litigation
- Claims where your appraiser selection puts you at a disadvantage
Ocean Point's appraisal role
We represent policyholders in three capacities:
- Policyholder's appraiser. Named to the panel by the insured. Advocates for the policyholder's loss documentation.
- Umpire. When selected by two party appraisers, renders independent decisions where the appraisers disagree. Ocean Point serves as umpire on claims where we have no prior involvement with either party.
- Appraisal consultant. Behind-the-scenes preparation of documentation, estimates, and strategy for the named appraiser.
Our appraisal process
- Pre-appraisal documentation push. Full scope, Xactimate pricing, expert reports, photo evidence: prepared to panel-grade standard.
- Appraiser selection. Competent (qualified in the specialty: roofing, water, fire, structural) and disinterested (no prior relationship with party).
- Panel management. Schedule, scope-review meetings, umpire coordination.
- Award drafting. Clear written award stating separately the ACV and loss to each item, signed by two of three panelists.
- Award enforcement. Carrier must pay per the award. If they don't, the award is enforceable in court.
Appraisal cost structure
- Each party pays their own appraiser (typically hourly, $200–$500/hr depending on specialty)
- Umpire cost is split 50/50 between party and insurer
- Ocean Point contingency applies to any recovery generated over the carrier's pre-appraisal offer
Going deeper on appraisal
For policyholders who want a focused, appraisal-only resource, our companion site AppraiseClaims.com is dedicated entirely to the appraisal-and-umpire process: panel selection, scope strategy, evidence preparation, and what to expect at each step.