The appraisal process uses a panel to settle a claim.The typical homeowner’s insurance policy has a clause allowing the parties to use appraisal to resolve disputes. The process is intended to quickly and economically determine the amount of a loss in cases of disagreement. Like many aspects of Oklahoma law, the use of a three person panel should be approached with the advice of an experienced attorney. The Oklahoma appellate decisions heavily impact the outcome.

In simple terms, appraisal involves three parties that serve as a panel.

Each side chooses someone to act as a disinterested appraiser. Then, the two appraisers choose the third person, known as the Umpire, by agreement. If the two appraisers are not able to pick the Umpire by agreement, then either side can ask the court to select the Umpire.Continue Reading Using Appraisal To Settle Oklahoma Insurance Claims

Disappointment

There must be a good reason for the denial of a homeowners claim. The decision to deny coverage is complicated. It may sound simple, but it isn’t.

In Oklahoma, you really need an attorney involved before denial. Not just any attorney, but one familiar with Oklahoma law. There is a balance the courts strike in

Tornado8

Living in Oklahoma means having to deal with insurance claims for tornado damage. We have tornados almost every Spring.

The damage caused by tornadoes can be catastrophic. The aftermath can leave whole towns devastated. Comfort can be found in knowing that a homeowners insurance policy can help with repair of the damage.

Many of today’s

Fire4

Chimney fires are deadly and devastating to Oklahomans.

Every year fires take lives, homes, and businesses. The cost to the insurance industry is huge because insurance covers most types of fires.

One exception are fires that are intentionally set. Arson is a crime and no insurance policy will cover destroying property deliberately. Therefore, the cause

Fire

Insurance is intended to protect the insurance company customer (“insured”) from fire damage. The policy holder pays the premium for fire insurance. If the property catches fire, the insurance pays for the losses. Obviously, the customer cannot commit arson. Intentionally burning your house or property is a crime. It is also illegal to present a