Appraisal Clause in Florida Homeowners Insurance (HO‑3, HO‑6, DP‑3)

In Florida personal homeowners insurance (HO‑3, HO‑6, DP‑3), the Appraisal Clause is a dispute‑resolution provision used when you and the insurance company disagree on the value of a loss. It does not determine coverage — only the dollar amount of damage.

When appraisal is invoked, each side selects an independent appraiser. Those two appraisers then choose an umpire. If the appraisers cannot agree on the amount of loss, the umpire reviews both positions and makes the final determination. The decision is binding on both parties.

The Appraisal Clause is designed to avoid litigation by providing a structured, contractual method to resolve valuation disputes. It is commonly used in Florida for roof claims, water damage, and other losses where the scope or pricing of repairs is contested.

How Appraisal Works in Florida

• Coverage first: Appraisal only applies after coverage is confirmed. It cannot decide whether a claim is covered.
• Each side picks an appraiser: You choose one; the carrier chooses one.
• Umpire selection: The two appraisers select an umpire to break any deadlock.
• Binding award: The final appraisal award sets the amount the carrier must pay, subject to deductible and policy limits.
• No contractor involvement: Contractors cannot “represent” you in appraisal unless they are licensed adjusters.

Why Appraisal Matters in Florida

Florida sees frequent disputes over roof pricing, water mitigation invoices, and repair scopes. Appraisal provides a faster, less adversarial alternative to litigation, and many carriers prefer it because it keeps claim costs predictable.

Policyholders often use appraisal when:

• The carrier’s estimate seems too low.
• There is a disagreement over repair method or scope.
• Multiple adjusters have produced conflicting estimates.
• A contractor’s estimate is significantly higher than the carrier’s.

Appraisal is not a guarantee of a higher payout — it simply ensures an independent valuation process.

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