Appraisal & Umpire Services

Neutral, experienced decision making for disputed property losses in all 50 states and U.S. territories.

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Overview

When parties disagree on the amount of loss, appraisal provides a structured path under the policy. Two independent appraisers attempt to agree on the amount of loss. If they cannot, a neutral umpire issues a binding decision on value. AMA Settlement Services delivers national appraisal and umpire assignments for residential, commercial, industrial, and catastrophe claims.

What we do

We help resolve property insurance disputes through clear, structured appraisal support.
  • Independent Appraiser Services for insurers, policyholders, and their representatives.
  • Neutral Umpire Appointments when two appraisers reach an impasse and need an impartial decision.
  • Panel Coordination and Protocol Design to organize scope, timelines, communication, and documentation standards.
  • On-Site Inspections and Award Preparation with transparent, itemized documentation of all findings.
  • Secure File Management with tracked uploads, version control, and a full audit trail for every case.

Loss types

Wind and windstorm

Wind and windstorm

Hurricane & tropical storm

Hurricane & tropical storm

Hail

Hail

Tornado

Tornado

Fire and smoke

Fire and smoke

Water and plumbing leak

Water & plumbing leak

Roof damage

Roof damage

Structural damage

Structural damage

Collapse

Collapse

Flood

Flood

Lightning

Lightning

Theft and vandalism

Theft & vandalism

Builder’s risk

Builder’s risk

Business interruption and extra expense

Business interruption & extra expense

Other property loss

Other property loss

Payment and retainer

Appraisal and umpire costs are typically shared according to the policy or written agreement. Each side compensates its own appraiser, and the umpire’s fee is shared equally unless the parties agree otherwise.

Payments can be made through our secure online portal, which accepts credit cards and ACH transfers. For complex or high-value matters, milestone or installment billing may be arranged upon request.

Summary of Process

  • Demand and Invocation – The process begins under the appraisal clause of the policy once a written demand is made.
  • Appraiser Selection – Each party names a competent, impartial appraiser within the timeframe allowed.
  • Umpire Appointment – The two appraisers attempt to agree on a neutral umpire, or one is appointed by the court if no agreement is reached.
  • Inspections and Exchange – Site inspections are completed, and both sides exchange positions, estimates, and supporting exhibits.
  • Umpire Involvement – The umpire participates as needed, which may include joint inspections, hearings, or document reviews.
  • Final Award – Two signatures on the panel form a binding award that sets the amount of loss.

Intake checklist

To begin, please provide:
  • A copy of the policy and the appraisal clause
  • The written demand for appraisal
  • A list of disputed estimate items and the basis of disagreement
  • Relevant photos, reports, invoices, or measurable data
  • Inspection details and preferred dates
  • Any existing court orders related to the appraisal

Insurance Appraisal by state

Start Appraisal or Umpire Request