When your insurance company isn’t being reasonable, you don’t have to wait—you can take action.
If your claim has been denied, underpaid, or stuck in endless delays, mediation can be the turning point that gets things moving in your favor.
At Caliber Claim Adjusters, we use mediation as a strategic tool to help homeowners resolve disputes and secure fair settlements—without the stress, cost, and time of litigation.
What Is Insurance Mediation?
Insurance mediation is a voluntary, non-binding dispute resolution process where a neutral third party—known as a mediator—helps both sides reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
Unlike appraisal, which focuses strictly on the value of a loss, mediation addresses the entire dispute, including:
- Coverage disagreements
- Scope of damages
- Claim handling issues
- Settlement negotiations
The mediator does not make decisions. Instead, they guide both parties toward a resolution through structured negotiation.
When Should You Consider Mediation?
Mediation is typically used when communication with the insurance company has broken down or negotiations have stalled.
You should consider mediation if:
- Your claim was denied
- Your claim was underpaid
- The insurance company is delaying your claim
- There is a dispute over coverage or cause of loss
- You want to avoid going to court
How the Mediation Process Works
1. Request for Mediation
Either party can initiate mediation. In Florida, this is often done through the Department of Financial Services (DFS).
2. Assignment of a Mediator
A neutral, state-certified mediator is selected to facilitate the process.
3. Preparation
Both sides gather evidence, including estimates, reports, photos, and supporting documentation.
4. Mediation Session
During the session:
- Each side presents their position
- The mediator facilitates negotiation
- Private discussions may occur
- Offers and counteroffers are exchanged
5. Outcome
- If an agreement is reached → it is written and signed
- If not → both parties can pursue appraisal or litigation
Important Reality About Mediation
Mediation is a powerful tool—but it’s important to understand exactly what it is and what it is not.
Mediation is an opportunity to present and negotiate your demand in a structured setting. However, it does not obligate the insurance company to pay if they do not agree with the terms being discussed.
The carrier has the right to impasse—meaning they can choose not to settle during mediation. Likewise, as the insured, you also have the right to walk away if the offer presented is not fair or acceptable.
This is what makes mediation different from appraisal:
- Mediation → Negotiation (non-binding unless agreed)
- Appraisal → Binding decision on the value of the loss
Because of this, mediation should never be treated as a guaranteed resolution—it is a strategic opportunity to push for a fair settlement.
👉 Insurance companies often use mediation to evaluate how strong your case really is—that’s why preparation and representation matter.
Benefits of Mediation
- Faster than litigation
- Lower cost than hiring attorneys
- Allows resolution of both coverage and value disputes
- Less formal and more flexible
- Keeps control in your hands—not a judge’s
Important Considerations
- Mediation is non-binding unless an agreement is signed
- Preparation and strategy are critical
- Insurance companies come prepared—you should too
Why You Need a Public Adjuster
Going into mediation without representation can put you at a disadvantage.
At Caliber Claim Adjusters, we:
- Build a strong and well-supported claim
- Identify weaknesses in the insurance company’s position
- Lead negotiations during mediation
- Push for the highest possible settlement
We don’t just attend mediation—we strategically position your claim to win.
Mediation vs. Appraisal — Key Difference
- Mediation → resolves disputes involving coverage, liability, and value
- Appraisal → strictly determines the value of the loss
Choosing the right approach can significantly impact your final settlement.
Final Thoughts
Mediation can be a powerful opportunity to resolve your claim efficiently—but only if handled correctly.
If your claim has been denied, delayed, or underpaid, don’t leave the outcome in the hands of the insurance company.
Let Caliber Claim Adjusters represent you and fight for the settlement you deserve.