Florida Appraisal Clause Guide
Most Florida homeowner and commercial property policies contain an appraisal clause — a contractual mechanism that lets you and your insurer each hire an independent appraiser when you disagree on the value of a covered loss. Florida Statute § 627.7015 governs the appraisal process and establishes the framework for resolving these disputes. If you are preparing to start, review our step-by-step guide to invoking appraisal and our insurance appraisal process guide. You can alsobrowse all guides or review the frequently asked questions for related appraisal topics.
When Can You Invoke It?
You can demand appraisal any time you and your insurer disagree on the amount of the loss — not on whether coverage applies. Typical triggers:
- The insurer's estimate is lower than contractor quotes you've received
- The insurer denies line items you believe are covered (scope disputes)
- The insurer's adjuster and your contractor can't agree on unit costs
In Florida, one of the most common examples is a Florida hurricane insurance claim dispute, where carriers and contractors disagree about roof, water-intrusion, and post-storm pricing issues.
How the Process Works
- Demand appraisal in writing. Review your policy for the specific language — typically found in the "Conditions" section. Send written demand to the insurer's claims address.
- Each party selects a competent, independent appraiser. Under Florida law, appraisers must be impartial and disinterested — meaning no financial stake in the outcome beyond their fee.
- The two appraisers attempt to agree. They inspect the property, review documentation, and try to reach a joint award.
- If they disagree, they select an umpire. If the appraisers cannot agree on an umpire, either party may petition a Florida circuit court to appoint one under § 627.7015(1).
- The insurer pays the award. Agreement of any two of the three (both appraisers, or one appraiser + umpire) sets the loss amount. The process is binding on the amount of loss — it does not waive any coverage defenses.
Policyholder-Side vs. Insurer-Side Appraisers
Your insurer will hire an appraiser who works for them routinely. You should hire someone who works exclusively for policyholders — someone with no ongoing relationship with the insurance company and no incentive to undervalue your claim.
Every professional in this directory works policyholder-side only. If you are weighing appraisal against going to court, our insurance appraisal vs. litigation guide compares the two paths. If you are still comparing candidates, see our Florida guide to choosing an insurance appraiser. Selection questions also often start with can I choose my own insurance appraiser, and many South Florida readers compare the Miami hurricane insurance claim appraisal guide. Central Florida readers may also review the Orlando hurricane insurance claim appraisal guide