Oklahoma Insurance Appraiser — Appraisal & Umpire Services
Marshall Smith is an Oklahoma insurance appraiser and umpire. Marshall Services LLC provides independent, impartial insurance appraisal and umpire services for property damage claims throughout Oklahoma. IAUA CPAU-certified appraiser Marshall Smith uses Xactimate estimating software, FAA Part 107 drone inspections, and construction expertise to resolve disputes over hail, tornado, straight-line wind, fire, and severe storm damage for residential and commercial properties. We serve policyholders, insurance carriers, contractors, public adjusters, and attorneys statewide — including Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, Broken Arrow, and Edmond. Additional services include expert witness testimony for property insurance litigation and loss consulting to help property owners document and present their claims. Service areas: Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, Colorado, and California.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an insurance appraisal in Oklahoma?
An insurance appraisal is a binding process found in most Oklahoma property insurance policies. When the policyholder and insurer disagree on the amount of a covered loss, either party can invoke the appraisal clause. Each side selects an independent appraiser, and if those two cannot agree, a neutral umpire makes the final determination. It resolves disputes over the amount of loss — not whether the damage is covered.
Can the appraisal process help with hail and tornado claims?
Yes. Oklahoma sits in the heart of Tornado Alley and experiences frequent, severe hailstorms. Hail and wind claims are among the most disputed property claims in the state. When coverage is established but the valuation is in dispute, the appraisal process provides a structured, impartial way to determine the accurate amount of loss.
My insurer says my roof damage is only cosmetic. What can I do?
Hail damage is frequently classified as 'cosmetic.' However, granule loss, bruising, and dents to roofing and metal components often compromise the roof's protective function. An independent appraiser can document the functional damage using Xactimate and manufacturer specifications, providing evidence that the damage requires repair or replacement.
How long does the appraisal process take?
Most insurance appraisals are resolved within 90 to 120 days from the date the demand letter is sent. After a major storm or tornado outbreak, timelines can vary with claim volume and the responsiveness of both parties, but appraisal remains far faster than litigation.
What types of property damage does Marshall Services appraise in Oklahoma?
We appraise all types of covered property damage including hail, tornado, straight-line wind, fire and smoke, water intrusion, and severe storm losses — for both residential and commercial properties across Oklahoma.
Is the insurance appraisal decision binding?
Yes. Under most insurance policies, the appraisal award is binding on both parties regarding the amount of loss. Once two of the three parties (the policyholder's appraiser, the insurer's appraiser, and the umpire) agree on a figure, that amount becomes the final determination.
Do you handle insurance appraisals anywhere in Oklahoma?
Marshall Services accepts insurance appraisal and umpire assignments throughout Oklahoma. Service is not limited to a single city or county, although scheduling depends on property access, assignment needs, and current availability. Contact the practice with the property location and claim details to confirm whether the assignment can be accepted.
How much does an insurance appraisal cost in Oklahoma?
Appraisal cost varies with the property's size, damage scope, documentation, and complexity. Each side generally pays its own appraiser, and the parties typically share any umpire fee according to the policy. Marshall Services can discuss the expected fee structure after reviewing the assignment, while your policy governs how appraisal expenses are allocated.