Specializing in Appraisals, Umpire Services, and Building Consultations

Professional Insurance Evaluations

An insurance appraisal for property damage is a formal evaluation used to determine the value of the loss or damage to a property after an insured event—such as fire, water damage, wind damage, smoke damage, theft, vandalism, and other types of covered losses. 

This process helps resolve disputes between policyholders and insurance companies about the cost of repairs or replacement.

Construction site with ladders, tools, and walls under renovation, leading to a doorway into a room.

When there's a disagreement over the amount of a claim, either party can invoke the appraisal clause in the insurance policy. Independent appraisers are then hired by both sides to assess the damage and assign a value. If the appraisers can't agree, a neutral umpire steps in to make the final decision.

This method offers a faster, less adversarial alternative to legal action—ensuring fair, expert-driven outcomes for both property owners and insurers.

Two professionals working at a cluttered desk with spreadsheets, sticky notes, a laptop, and a calculator in a bright office.
A living room with a damaged ceiling, debris on the floor, a pool table, a couch, and a stone fireplace.
Damaged house with a partially collapsed roof and broken windows after storm or accident.
Carpet cleaning equipment including a steam cleaner, blower, and portable heater in a room with beige carpet and white walls.
Burned and charred building interior with debris, and yellow caution tape with the words "FIRE LINE DO NOT CROSS" in the foreground.
Partial view of a wall with an electrical outlet, exposed wooden framing, red plumbing pipe, and a damaged carpeted floor.

Services

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APPRAISALS

When disagreements arise between policyholders and insurance companies over the value of a claim, J & S provides impartial and accurate Appraisal Services. As a trusted third-party appraiser, we are committed to identifying the true cost of damages using proven valuation methods and referencing industry experts when specialized insight is required. Our process ensures clarity, fairness, and resolution—grounded in facts, not assumptions.

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UMPIRE SERVICES

When appraisal differences remain unresolved between two opposing appraisers, J & S offers reliable Umpire Services to bring the process to a fair and impartial conclusion. Acting as a neutral third party, we review both sides' assessments, and make informed decisions based on evidence, scope of damage, and standard practices. We ensure transparency and equity—resolving disputes with integrity and grounded in objective analysis.

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BUILDING CONSULTATIONS

J & S provides expert building consultations at any stage of the claims process. We assist with large losses, complex scopes, and disputed claims—helping resolve issues before they escalate to appraisal or litigation. If needed, we also offer expert witness or deposition services. By working closely with contractors and insurance professionals, we help ensure accurate, fair, and well-documented outcomes.

VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED