Commercial claims have more moving parts
A commercial or association claim rarely involves one estimate and one decision-maker. There may be a property manager, a board, a lender, tenants with their own policies, and a carrier using a large-loss adjuster and outside consultants. The appraisal clause in a commercial policy works much like a homeowner's, but the scope is larger and the documentation needs to be stronger.
Property types we work on
- Condominium and townhome associations in Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and Juneau
- Fourplexes and apartment buildings, including older walk-ups
- Retail strips, offices and medical buildings
- Warehouses, shops, hangars and equipment buildings
- Lodges, rental cabins and seasonal tourism properties
- Churches and community buildings
Issues that come up often
Snow load and roof systems
Low-slope commercial roofs collect snow and ice, and drifting against parapets and higher roof sections concentrates load. Disputes often center on whether membrane damage, deck deflection or interior water damage came from the event or from long-term conditions.
Master policy versus unit owner coverage
Association bylaws decide who insures what, and many disputes are about where the master policy stops and the HO-6 begins. We read both and value each piece accordingly.
Business interruption and time element
Appraisal is usually limited to the amount of loss under the coverage in dispute. We focus on the physical damage valuation and work alongside your accountant or forensic consultant on time-element claims.
What boards and owners receive
A building-by-building estimate, a plain-English summary of the differences from the carrier's numbers, and photos organized by elevation and unit. That package supports board decisions and holds up in front of an umpire.
Frequently asked questions
Can an HOA board invoke appraisal?
The named insured on the master policy, usually the association, has the right to demand appraisal under its policy terms. Board approval rules depend on your governing documents.
Do you work with large-loss commercial claims?
Yes. Larger claims often benefit from building-by-building estimates and coordination with engineers or other consultants.
Are lodges and seasonal properties different?
They often are. Limited building seasons and remote access can drive up repair costs, and vacancy provisions in the policy may matter.