WA SB6359

Third-party claimants with property damage claims against automobile liability insurers may demand appraisal when unable to agree on the amount of loss, independent of policy language

Within 10 days of a written appraisal demand, each party must select a competent, disinterested appraiser; if appraisers cannot agree on an umpire within 15 days, either party may petition the insurance commissioner to appoint one

Property damage covered includes reasonable repair costs, total loss value, diminished value after repair, and loss of use (rental car costs or cash compensation)

Insurers failing to comply face enforcement actions including fines up to $10,000 per violation, suspension or revocation of certificate of authority

Applies to all automobile liability insurance policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2027; claimants retain the right to pursue civil remedies in addition to or instead of appraisal