A third-party diminished value claim is presented to the at-fault driver's insurer. An appraisal clause, when it exists, is language in your own policy. Mixing the two paths is a common source of delay.
This page explains the distinction in process terms. It is not legal advice, it does not tell you whether to invoke a clause, and we do not appoint anyone or negotiate for you.
What the clause usually is
Where a policy includes an appraisal clause, it typically describes a way for the policyholder and their own insurer to pick people who will try to agree on the amount of a covered loss after they already disagree. The details are in the contract. Read the policy, including definitions and any conditions that have to be met first.
It is not the third-party diminished value path
A demand letter to another driver's insurer is not an invocation of your own policy's appraisal clause. If you are claiming against the at-fault driver's coverage, stay on that claim file unless a qualified professional tells you a first-party path applies in your facts and state.
What this product does not do
We do not appoint a representative and we do not communicate with insurers for you. This product is not a licensed appraisal. If you need that kind of help, look for a licensed professional in your state. Our Complete package includes a short pointer in the escalation kit so you remember to read the policy; it is not a filing service.
Questions
Can I use your report inside a policy appraisal process?
You can attach documents you reviewed. Whether they are accepted is up to the people in that process. The report is informational, not a licensed appraisal.