WA HB1645

Automobile insurance policies with first-party physical damage coverage issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2026, must include an appraisal clause allowing either party to resolve disputes over actual cash value and loss amount

When appraisal is demanded, each party has 10 days to select a competent, disinterested appraiser; if the two appraisers cannot agree on an umpire within 10 days, the insurance commissioner will designate one

Each party pays their own appraiser costs and splits umpire costs equally, but if the final appraisal exceeds the insurer's pre-appraisal adjustment by $500 or more, the insurer must reimburse the policyholder for all appraisal costs including attorneys' fees

Neither party may demand appraisal until 10 days after the insurer receives the claim notification

Insurance commissioner is authorized to adopt rules to implement the appraisal process requirements