A hurricane can leave a property with serious damage, but for many homeowners, the real surprise comes when the insurance settlement is not enough to cover repairs. After spending time documenting losses and meeting with adjusters, receiving a lower-than-expected payment can be frustrating. Fortunately, many insurance policies include an appraisal process that may help resolve disputes over the value of a claim and provide a path toward a fairer settlement for covered hurrica

When a claim stalls because the insurance estimate does not match the real damage, the appraisal process can help. It begins when either side invokes appraisal under the policy. Each party selects an appraiser who reviews the damage, estimates, and documentation. If needed, an umpire resolves remaining differences. The final agreed value sets the claim amount so payment can move forward.