How appraisal works
What is insurance appraisal?
A process written into most property policies for settling disagreements about the amount of a covered loss. Each side names an appraiser, the appraisers choose an umpire, and an agreement signed by any two of the three sets the amount.
Who can demand appraisal?
Under most policies, either you or the insurer can demand appraisal in writing when you disagree on the amount of loss.
Is the appraisal award binding?
On the amount of loss, generally yes, once two of the three panel members sign. Coverage questions are separate.
Does appraisal decide coverage?
No. Appraisal values the loss. Whether the policy covers it is decided by the policy, the parties and, if necessary, the courts.
Do I need a lawyer for appraisal?
Not necessarily. Many appraisals happen without lawyers. If there is a coverage denial, a bad-faith concern or an approaching deadline, talk to a South Dakota attorney.
Costs and fees
Who pays for appraisal?
Usually each side pays its own appraiser and the two sides split the umpire’s fee and other shared costs. Your policy controls.
How do appraisers charge?
Arrangements vary: flat fees, hourly rates or a percentage of the increase. We put our fee in writing before any work begins.
Is appraisal worth it for a small claim?
Often not. When the gap is small, a documented supplement request is usually faster and cheaper. Our appraisal payoff estimator helps you check.
Timing and deadlines
How long does appraisal take?
Simple residential claims often resolve within a few months of both appraisers being named. Complex claims take longer.
Is there a deadline to demand appraisal?
Some policies set time limits around appraisal and all policies have a suit limitation clause. Read your policy and do not assume appraisal pauses any deadline.
When do I get paid after an award?
Policies usually set a period for payment after an award or agreement. The carrier applies the deductible, limits and prior payments.
South Dakota specifics
Who regulates insurers in South Dakota?
The South Dakota Division of Insurance, part of the Department of Labor and Regulation, based in Pierre. It accepts consumer complaints about claim handling.
Does South Dakota have a FAIR plan or wind pool?
No. South Dakota does not have a state FAIR plan or wind pool. Properties that standard carriers decline are typically placed in the surplus lines market.
What are the most common claims here?
Hail and wind lead by a wide margin, followed by winter damage, water losses, fire and, in the Black Hills, wildfire.
What if my insurer acted in bad faith?
South Dakota recognizes legal remedies when an insurer handles a claim unreasonably. Those are legal claims for an attorney. Appraisal deals only with the amount of loss.
Working with us
Do you work statewide?
Yes. We serve all 66 South Dakota counties, from the Sioux Empire to the Black Hills.
Are you a public adjuster or a law firm?
Neither. We provide appraisal, estimating and umpire services. We do not negotiate claims outside appraisal and we do not give legal advice.
What should I send for a first review?
The carrier’s full estimate, your declarations page, carrier letters, photos and your contractor’s estimate if you have one.