What You Should Know About Fire Damage and Estate Appraisals in Napa County, CA

Fires can leave devastating damage in their paths. Properties may be slightly soiled or completely destroyed. To ascertain the full extent of the damage, property owners often need to get an estate appraisal in Napa County, CA.

If your property has been touched by fire, there are certain things you should be aware of regarding repairs, value, inspections and appraisals. Use the following guide to navigate this process.

Who hires the appraiser for an estate appraisal in Napa County, CA?

When the appraisal is being conducted in response to fire damage, the insurance company or a contractor usually hires the appraiser. The property owner can also find an appraiser, if desired. It’s helpful to connect the appraiser and the insurance company to ensure they are in agreement about timeline and methodology for the appraisal. If, as the owner, you choose the appraiser, look for those with experience in fire damage appraisals and appraisers who are familiar with the area in which your property is located.

How will the appraiser inspect my property?

If it is safe to do so, the appraiser will conduct a physical inspection of the property. If interior access is not possible or permitted, the appraiser can perform an exterior-only appraisal. The key is for the appraiser to be able to gather enough information to accurately ascertain the value.

What factors will be used to determine the value of my property?

The appraiser will use a variety of resources to determine the value of the house before the fire. The appraiser will gather information from tax records, previous MLS listings, Google Maps and the property owner, plus their personal physical inspection of the home. By piecing together this information, the appraiser will be able to get a good understanding of what the house was like before the damage occurred and give an accurate value of the home.

Will the value of the estate appraisal in Napa County, CA reflect the fire damage?

Typically, the appraiser is asked to complete their assessment as if the home were not damaged. He or she provides a “repaired value” rather than an “as is” value. The industry term is “hypothetical condition.” In other words, the appraiser’s report offers a value for the property before it suffered fire damage. This number provides contractors, banks, insurance carriers and the homeowner with a value to use when considering replacements, repairs and reimbursements.

What else might affect the appraisal?

FEMA guidelines might also affect how your appraisal is completed and what limits are placed on improvements and reimbursements. Check with your local professionals who handle estate appraisals in Napa County, CA to find out what regulations are in effect in your area.

Who Should I Contact for More Information on Estate Appraisals in Napa County, CA?

County Appraisals Inc. has offered high-quality estate appraisals in Napa County, CA since 2008. We possess in-depth knowledge of the area. Our expertise includes agricultural-related properties typically developed as vineyards, wineries, rural estates or single-family residential uses on acreage. Our valuations make your appraisal easy and understandable. Contact us today with any questions or to schedule your appraisal.

Categorised in: Estate Appraisals

This post was written by Writer