MassachusettsInsurance Appraiser

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Appraisal Readiness Checklist: Score Your Claim File

A panel can only value what you can show. Score your file in two minutes and get a short list of what to gather before anyone invokes appraisal.

Appraisal file checkup12 questions · two minutes
  1. Has the carrier accepted coverage for at least part of the loss?
  2. Do you have the carrier’s full line-item estimate, not just a payment letter?
  3. Do you have an independent line-item estimate of your own?
  4. Were photos taken soon after the loss, with dates?
  5. Have you found the appraisal or “reference” wording in your policy?
  6. Do you know the date your policy’s lawsuit window closes?
  7. Were temporary repairs (tarps, water removal, heat) done and receipts kept?
  8. Do you have the current declarations page?
  9. Has hidden damage (attic, wall cavities, subfloor) been opened and documented?
  10. Are your emails and letters with the carrier in date order?
  11. Is the gap between estimates more than about 10% or $5,000?
  12. If the carrier asked for a sworn proof of loss, was it sent on time?
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Answered 0 / 12

Still to do

    For planning only. Results depend on what you enter and your policy terms; they are not a quote, an appraisal or legal advice.

    How the score is weighted

    Questions about coverage, the carrier’s itemized estimate and your own itemized estimate count most, because without them there is nothing for a panel to compare. Photos, policy wording and deadlines come next. Organization items count least but still save time and fees.

    What a strong file looks like

    • Coverage accepted in writing, with the carrier’s full line-item estimate.
    • An independent estimate with measurements, photos and current local pricing.
    • Dated photos from right after the loss, plus current conditions.
    • The policy, declarations page and a dated timeline of letters and calls.

    Next steps

    Scored under 45? Work the to-do list first. Scored 75 or more? Size the dispute with the award gap estimator and read the appraisal roadmap.

    About this scorecard

    Is a high score a guarantee?

    No. It means your paperwork is in order. The outcome still depends on the facts and the panel.

    Why does coverage acceptance matter so much?

    Appraisal resolves the amount of a covered loss. If coverage is denied, appraisal usually isn’t the right tool.

    Are my answers saved?

    No. Everything stays in your browser and resets when you leave the page.

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