Reading the three outcomes
Appraisal panels rarely award either side’s opening number. Line items with photos, measurements and local pricing tend to survive; padded or unsupported items tend to fall away. That is why the estimator never shows one answer. The likely case uses your slider. The cautious case drops it by 30 points, and the strong case raises it by 25.
If appraisal only makes sense in the strong case, the file is fragile. If the cautious case still clears your costs, it is worth a closer look.
The break-even landing point
The break-even figure is the share of the gap the panel would have to award just to cover your appraisal costs. A break-even of 15% is comfortable. A break-even above 60% means fees could absorb most of any gain.
What this tool does not include
- Deductibles, depreciation timing and policy limits. These change what you are paid, not the size of the disagreement. Use the RCV / ACV & holdback calculator for that.
- Coverage questions. Appraisal values a covered loss; it does not decide whether something is covered.
- Legal fees or any bad-faith claim, which are matters for a West Virginia attorney.
All figures are illustrative planning numbers based on what you type in.
Questions about this tool
Why does the umpire fee only count half?
Most appraisal clauses split the umpire’s cost equally between you and the insurer. Check your policy’s wording, because some forms handle costs differently.
Which fee type should I choose?
Use whatever your appraiser quotes in writing. Flat, hourly and percentage arrangements all exist; the estimator lets you compare them on the same claim.
Is the likely award a prediction?
No. It is a scenario you choose with the slider. Real awards depend on documentation, the policy and the panel.