Why we focus on appraisal
Most claim professionals do a little of everything. We chose to specialize. South Dakota Insurance Appraiser works on the amount of loss, and our process, tools and documentation standards are built around answering that question well. That focus lets us serve as your appointed appraiser, review estimates before a dispute escalates, or sit as a neutral umpire on panels where we represent neither side.
How we work
- Inspection first. We measure and photograph before we look at anyone else’s numbers.
- Supported over impressive. An inflated estimate loses credibility with an umpire. We price what we can support.
- Local pricing. Labor, material and travel costs differ between Sioux Falls, the James Valley and the Black Hills. Our estimates reflect that.
- Plain-English reporting. You’ll understand every difference between our valuation and the carrier’s.
- Fees in writing. You know the cost before any work starts.
Who we work with
Homeowners, farm and ranch families, landlords, HOA boards, property managers, churches, business owners, contractors, public adjusters and attorneys across South Dakota. On any claim, we serve in one role only, and we disclose any prior relationships with the other appraiser or the umpire.
What we are not
We aren’t a law firm and don’t give legal advice. We aren’t public adjusters and don’t negotiate claims outside the appraisal process. We don’t guarantee outcomes. No honest appraiser can.
Both sides of the river
East River and West River South Dakota produce very different claims: derecho wind and hail around Sioux Falls, blizzards in the James Valley, record hail on the central plains, wildfire and heavy snow in the Black Hills. Working statewide means we see all of them and price each one with local knowledge.