Appraisal & Mediation
When negotiation stalls, the policy's appraisal clause and state mediation programs offer a path forward. We represent your interests through the appraisal and mediation process.
We document it. We negotiate it. You recover it.
When negotiation stalls, the policy's appraisal clause and state mediation programs offer a path forward. We represent your interests through the appraisal and mediation process.
- Policy appraisal clause
- State mediation programs
- Independent damage valuation
- Dispute resolution
Every file is handled by a licensed adjuster, on contingency. You pay nothing upfront and nothing at all unless we recover for you.
Start your free reviewWhat are appraisal and mediation in an insurance claim?
They're two ways to break a deadlock without litigation. Appraisal is a process written into most property policies: each side names a qualified appraiser, and an umpire resolves any remaining difference over the amount of loss. Mediation is a voluntary, state-facilitated settlement conference. Both are about the dollar value of the damage, not whether coverage exists, and both can resolve a stalled claim.
When you need appraisal & mediation help
- You and the insurer agree the loss is covered but not on the amount
- Negotiation has stalled and the carrier won't move off a low number
- You want a resolution path that avoids the cost and delay of litigation
- Your policy contains an appraisal clause you're entitled to invoke
- A state-facilitated mediation program is available for your claim
How appraisal & mediation work with Vanguard
- Assess the disputeWe review the policy, the carrier's position, and the evidence to confirm appraisal or mediation is the right path.
- Build the valuationWe prepare an independent, fully documented damage valuation to anchor your position in the process.
- Invoke the processWe invoke the policy's appraisal clause or request mediation and handle the procedural requirements.
- Represent your numberWe present and defend your documented valuation to the appraiser, umpire, or mediator.
- Resolve and closeWe work toward an award or settlement that reflects the true loss, then confirm the funds are released.
How we build your case
The settlement follows the documentation. Here's what we put on the record so the claim is decided on evidence, not the carrier's first impression.
- An independent, line-item damage valuation
- Photo, measurement, and moisture/thermal evidence of the full loss
- The policy language establishing your appraisal rights
- Contractor estimates supporting the disputed scope
- A clear record of the carrier's position and where it falls short
- Causation documentation tying the loss to a covered event
Why this beats going it alone
Appraisal and mediation have rules, deadlines, and a valuation standard most homeowners have never seen. Walking in without a documented number means the carrier's valuation sets the anchor. We bring an independent, defensible valuation and handle the process, so the outcome turns on the evidence rather than on who knows the procedure.
What it costs: no recovery, no fee
We work on contingency, so there are no upfront fees, and if we don't recover, you don't pay. The fee for your claim is set out in the written contingency agreement we review with you before you sign. You also have the right to cancel a public adjuster contract without penalty within a short window after signing: 10 days in Florida (30 days during a declared emergency) and five business days in South Carolina, so you're never locked in.
Want the full breakdown of how public adjuster fees work? See our public adjuster cost guide.
Appraisal & Mediation FAQ
No upfront fees. No recovery, no fee.
A licensed public adjuster works your claim from first inspection to final settlement.
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