Free 1-Hour Webinar on Thursday, May 28th, 2026 at 10:00am Pacific Time
Introduction
Property insurance policies almost always contain an "Appraisal Clause," a mechanism designed to resolve disputes regarding the amount of a loss without resorting to costly litigation. While intended to be a faster and less formal alternative dispute resolution (ADR) method, the process requires strict adherence to ethical standards to ensure the final award is binding and enforceable. The Insurance Appraisal and Umpire Association (IAUA) has established specific certifications and codes of ethics that transform this process from a casual negotiation into a rigorous professional proceeding.
The role of the expert is critical, whether serving as a Certified Property Insurance Appraiser (CPIA), a Certified Property Appraiser and Umpire (CPAU), or a consultant. This program navigates the technical and procedural landscape of appraisal, with a special focus on IAUA teachings regarding "ex parte" communications, the handling of causation issues, and the use of the Universal Appraisal Award Form to secure a final resolution.
Program Outline
Introduction
The Appraisal Clause & Framework
Roles, Ethics & IAUA Certifications
Technical Analysis & Scoping the Loss
Cost Estimating & Valuation
The Umpire Hearing & The Universal Award
Conclusion
Learning Objectives
Define the specific scope of Appraisal versus Litigation, including the "Causation Quagmire" (Coverage vs. Amount of Loss).
Identify the value of IAUA Certifications (CPAU/CPIA/CPIU) and the ethical mandate for "Competent and Disinterested" panelists.
Discuss the strict prohibition on "Ex Parte" communications with Umpires and the protocols for transparent negotiation.
Examine the "Universal Appraisal Award Form" and how to itemize findings to prevent judicial vacating of awards.
Our Panel
Marc Viau
Expert
Pete Fowler Construction
Chris Feasel
Partner
Resnick & Louis, P.C.
Heather Frisch
Construction Counsel
Seyfarth Shaw, LLP
Continuing Education
This webinar is applying for continuing education credit for both attorneys and insurance professionals in the following states: Florida, Nevada, California, and Texas.
NOTE: Many states acknowledge reciprocal credit for courses certified through the Texas Department of Insurance. Be sure to review the guidelines specific to your state, and verify the process for obtaining credit for a course approved with the state of Texas.
The CEU Institutes will be the continuing education provider for our webinars in 2026. Any questions regarding continuing education credit can be directed toward their compliance team by emailing rosters@ceuinstitute.net
This provider does not accept poll responses submitted via the chat function. All three of polling question answers must show on the specific poll report generated by Zoom Webinar to count for credit.
It can take up to 30 days for credit processing and certificate distribution.