Appraisal and Umpire Services
MCL 500.2833(1)(m) states, in pertinent part:
“ (1) Each fire insurance policy issued or delivered in this state shall contain the following provisions:
(m) That if the insured and insurer fail to agree on the actual cash value or amount of the loss, either party may make a written demand that the amount of the loss or the actual cash value be set by appraisal. If either makes a written demand for appraisal, each party shall select a competent, independent appraiser and notify the other of the appraiser's identity within 20 days after receipt of the written demand. The 2 appraisers shall then select a competent, impartial umpire. If the 2 appraisers are unable to agree upon an umpire within 15 days, the insured or insurer may ask a judge of the circuit court for the county in which the loss occurred or in which the property is located to select an umpire. The appraisers shall then set the amount of the loss and actual cash value as to each item. If the appraisers submit a written report of an agreement to the insurer, the amount agreed upon shall be the amount of the loss. If the appraisers fail to agree within a reasonable time, they shall submit their differences to the umpire. Written agreement signed by any 2 of these 3 shall set the amount of the loss. Each appraiser shall be paid by the party selecting that appraiser. Other expenses of the appraisal and the compensation of the umpire shall be paid equally by the insured and the insurer.”
What Is An Appraiser?
An appraiser is an individual selected by a party to assist in resolving disagreements regarding the amount of loss under an applicable property insurance policy. Within Michigan's statutory appraisal process, an appraiser's responsibility is to independently evaluate the amount of loss and, where applicable, the actual cash value of the property submitted to appraisal.
Unlike individuals involved in investigating, adjusting, or settling an insurance claim, an appraiser serves a distinct and limited function. The appraiser's responsibility is confined to the appraisal process itself and is directed toward determining the amount of loss submitted for appraisal.
Away Home representatives may serve as party-appointed appraisers or neutral umpires where appropriate. Each appointment is accepted and performed independently, with careful consideration given to maintaining the impartiality and operational boundaries required of the role.
What Is An Umpire?
An umpire is an impartial individual selected by the appointed appraisers, or otherwise appointed in accordance with the applicable appraisal provisions, to assist in resolving disagreements that arise during the appraisal process.
Unlike the party-appointed appraisers, an umpire is not selected to advocate for either party. Rather, the umpire serves as an independent decision-maker whose responsibility is limited to the matters properly submitted for determination within the appraisal process.
Away Home representatives may serve as neutral umpires where appropriate. Every appointment is accepted and performed independently, with careful consideration given to maintaining the impartiality, professionalism, and operational boundaries required of the role.
As referenced within the language of the statute, the costs of an umpire are shared by the insurer and the insured.
How Do You Charge for Appraisal Services?
Away Home does not charge contingency-based fees for appraisal services.
Appraisal services are generally billed on a time and expense basis. Upon request, Away Home may provide a preliminary estimate based upon the nature and complexity of the assignment; however, the final invoice reflects the actual time devoted to the appraisal, together with reasonable travel, mileage, and other necessary expenses incurred in performing the appointment.
Every appraisal assignment is unique. Factors such as the size of the loss, the complexity of the issues presented, travel requirements, inspections, meetings, and the volume of information requiring review may all influence the time necessary to complete the appraisal process.
Why Choose Away Home?
Local Knowledge
Away Home is locally owned and operated. We understand Michigan properties, Michigan construction practices, and the communities we serve because we live and work here.
Practical Experience
Our background in property restoration, construction, building consulting, and insurance provides a practical understanding of the issues that commonly arise during the appraisal process. That experience allows us to evaluate property losses with attention to detail and an appreciation for both the technical and practical aspects of a claim.
Communication
We believe clients should understand the appraisal process before decisions are made. We take the time to explain the process, answer questions, and ensure clients understand what to expect throughout the appointment. We consider those conversations an important part of providing professional service—not simply a billable event.
Regarding Professional Boundaries
Away Home provides temporary housing coordination, licensed insurance counseling, documentation, appraisal, and related professional services within the defined scope of each service offering. Every service is intentionally maintained as a distinct professional function and is performed pursuant to the applicable service agreement governing that relationship.
Away Home is not licensed as an insurance adjuster and does not offer claim adjustment or claim representation services. Consumers seeking representation before their insurance company regarding the investigation, adjustment, negotiation, or settlement of an insurance claim should consider consulting a licensed public adjuster or attorney, as appropriate to their individual circumstances.
Insurance counseling services are provided only by licensed Michigan Resident Insurance Counselors pursuant to written Insurance Counselor Agreements. Temporary housing coordination, documentation services, appraisal, and other professional services remain separate from the insurance counseling relationship unless otherwise specifically agreed in writing.