A defined technical question
State the assignment, relevant qualifications, scope and potential conflicts before undertaking the work.
PART OF THE IDSO FAMILY
Qualified expertise. Evidence-led evaluation.The RTPE commitment
We speak for
the structure.
Technical conclusions grounded in the property’s needs, with reasoning that can be examined.
Evidence determines the conclusion.
RTPE registration represents qualification and a commitment to explain the restoration needs of the property. It must never be used as a label for a predetermined financial result.
An insurer’s file review may address documentation, scope, policy considerations or a proposed payment. An RTPE’s technical assignment addresses the condition of the property, the work supported by the evidence and the basis for each conclusion. These roles can overlap, but a settlement offer is not, by itself, a technical finding.
The distinction is the purpose, competence, method and reasoning—not who pays the reviewer. A sound review can identify unnecessary work or unsupported charges. It can also substantiate work that a payment proposal omits. Neither outcome should be predetermined.
What you should expect from an RTPE.
A traceable evidence base
Identify observations, measurements, photographs, project records and applicable technical references. Explain how they support each conclusion.
Transparent limitations
Disclose whether the property was inspected or the review was records-only. Explain missing evidence and when further site investigation is necessary. A desk review is not automatically invalid; its limitations must be clear.
Reasons for adjustments
Distinguish quantities, necessity, methods, documentation, rates and contractual or coverage questions. An unsupported statement that an item is “not allowable” does not establish its technical necessity or lack of necessity.
Independence in either direction
Do not accept a target reduction, predetermined savings percentage or predetermined invoice approval as the basis for technical opinions. Do not conceal evidence that changes the conclusion.
Clear professional boundaries
RTPE registration alone does not confer an adjusting license, legal authority, coverage decision-making authority or a guarantee of payment. Stay within the professional’s qualifications and agreed role.
Registration carries accountability.
Using RTPE standing to support predetermined price slashing, materially misrepresenting the evidence or qualifications, or disguising a financial negotiation as an independent technical conclusion is incompatible with this program.
A substantiated violation may result in corrective action, suspension or revocation of RTPE registration. IDSO will document the allegation and supporting evidence, disclose the concerns to the registrant, allow a meaningful response, address reviewer conflicts, and issue a reasoned written decision. The registrant may request reconsideration with additional evidence. A complaint or a disagreement over price alone is not proof of misconduct.
These are the standards of the new registry program. Registrants will be informed of the policy when the program launches; allegations will not trigger automatic removal.
Contact IDSO privately about a conduct concernPlease request a confidential review channel before sending client records. Do not post allegations on the discussion board.
When a review leaves questions unanswered.
Request the reviewer’s technical scope, relevant qualifications, evidence considered, assumptions and item-by-item reasoning. Separate disagreements about restoration need from quantities, rates, repairs, policy terms and settlement proposals. Preserve the original records and provide a documented technical response.
A legal remedy depends on the policy, contracts, facts and applicable law. An RTPE provides technical findings; a qualified local legal professional assesses legal claims. Our registrants serve communities across the United States, Canada and Australia. Policyholders should seek guidance on complaint and dispute-resolution options from the appropriate insurance regulator, ombudsman or independent dispute-resolution body for their jurisdiction. Procedures and eligibility vary by location and policy.
LET’S FIND YOUR NEXT STEP
