How the Insurance Appraisal Process Works (Missouri & Illinois Guide)

When you and the insurance carrier disagree on the **amount of loss** (the dollar value of the damage), many policies include an **appraisal** clause. Appraisal can be an effective tool—but only when you understand what it is (and what it isn’t).

This is a general guide for Missouri and Illinois policyholders.

> Note: Appraisal is governed by your policy language and your specific claim facts. This is educational information, not legal advice.

What appraisal is

Appraisal is a process intended to resolve disagreements about the **amount of loss**.

In plain English: “How much should it cost to repair/replace what’s covered?”

What appraisal is NOT

Appraisal usually does **not** decide:

• Whether something is covered (coverage disputes)
• Whether the claim should be denied
• Bad faith issues

Those are typically coverage/legal issues, not appraisal issues.

The basic structure

Most appraisal clauses follow a similar pattern:

1) Each side selects an appraiser

2) The two appraisers try to agree on the amount of loss

3) If they can’t agree, they select an umpire

4) The umpire resolves the differences

5) The result is an appraisal award

Timelines and deadlines matter

Policies can include requirements for notice, proof of loss, and other deadlines. Even when appraisal is available, it doesn’t automatically pause all other obligations.

If you think appraisal may be coming, it’s smart to get organized early.

What wins (and loses) in appraisal

Appraisal outcomes tend to depend on:

• Quality of documentation (photos, measurements, scope)
• Accuracy of quantities (roofing squares, elevations, interior SF)
• Clear separation of covered vs non-covered items
• Code/ordinance and necessary repair operations
• Consistency and clarity in estimating

Appraisal is not the place to “guess.” It’s a documentation game.

Residential vs commercial

Commercial appraisals often add complexity:

• Higher multi-trade coordination
• Rooftop equipment, membranes, specialty roofing systems
• Code and safety compliance requirements
• Business interruption or extra expense (separate from building scope)

The more complex the building and scope, the more important it is to have a clean, defensible estimate and documentation package.

When appraisal makes sense

Appraisal can be a good option when:

• Coverage is mostly agreed, but pricing/scope is disputed
• The carrier is “stuck” and supplements aren’t moving
• The difference is meaningful enough to justify the time and cost

Need appraisal support?

If you’re in the St. Louis metro (MO/IL), we can help organize documentation, scope the loss properly, and support the appraisal process.

**Request appraisal support:** /contact-form.html#form

— STL Public Adjusting — David Day