Insurance Appraisals

Our insurance appraisals document the existence, condition and replacement value, ensuring you will be able to replace lost or damaged treasures with similar items. Generally accepted industry guidelines recommend that fine and decorative art be re-appraised every three to five years, or every two years for Modern and Contemporary Art.

Estate Appraisals and Planning

Our firm has extensive experience filing appraisal for estate tax purposes. We are experts in the use of blockage and other legal devices that are important to the process. Our estate planning appraisals will assist you in the decision-making process regarding the equitable division of property among your heirs and beneficiaries.

Marriage and Partnership Dissolution Appraisals

For the division of assets and equitable distribution following divorce or dissolution of a business, our appraisals determine market cash value. Our appraisal reports, using current market research and appropriate comparable sales, help to reconcile difficult disputes.

Donation and Gift Appraisals

BZH Appraisal Associates specializes in qualified IRS-related appraisals, which meet strict IRS technical requirements for substantiating the value of donations. If an arrangement with an institution has not yet been finalized, we can assist with the development of proposals to suitable museums and other non-profit organizations.

Damage and Loss Appraisals

Our appraisals establish loss of value through consultations with a close network of conservators. The condition is described and analyzed and the cost of treatment or conservation is thoughtfully researched. 

INVESTMENT and ACCOUNTING appraisals

BZH Appraisal Associates offers opinion of Fair Value with and without appraisals as defined by Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures for Investors, Fund Managers, and Accounting Firms.

Appraisal Process

There are several stages to writing an appraisal. First, we conduct an inspection of the properties. We use the Object ID Checklist to describe each and every item.The Object ID Checklist was developed by the J. Paul Getty Trust in 1993 and has become the international standard for describing art and antique objects. We photograph each item in detail, with artist signatures, hallmarks, and other important features photographed individually in close proximity. Next, we research relevant markets and historical data, searching out comparable properties that help us determine the value of the items. We will then send you the finished report, including photographs.

Art CONSULTANCY

Our firm specializes in aiding clients in purchasing or selling works of art and personal property in the event of estate liquidation or any other matter. With a unique network of private buyers and auction houses at hand, including art collectors, dealers, and high-end interior decorators, we can offer consignment and liquidation services for select single items or entire collections. To avoid conflict of interest and uphold the code of ethics of the Appraisers Association of America, we do not buy items which we appraise. We act only as agents.

Litigation Support

BZH Appraisals Associates has been called upon by the Department of Justice, prestigious law firms, and district attorneys across the board. Our firm is famous for providing expert testimony and forensic appraisals for litigation support. We guide you throughout the litigation process by acting as your personal professional escort. For many years, we have assisted clients by drafting deposition and interrogatory questions related to appraising, art, and valuation science. Clients have received lists for discovery, and our professional workforce has been admitted as proficient witnesses in countless court systems.

Fulfillment Policy for BZH Appraisal Associates, Inc.

At BZH Appraisal Associates, Inc., we are your trusted partner for professional appraisal services of fine art and decorative art. Our commitment is to provide expert valuations with integrity, confidentiality, and precision. This policy outlines our approach to ensuring the fulfillment of our appraisal services.

Service Delivery Policy

Scope of Services: We offer appraisal services for insurance, estate planning, charitable contribution, and gift tax purposes. Our appraisals are conducted in accordance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).

Scheduling Appraisals: Appraisal appointments can be scheduled via our website or by contacting our office directly. We strive to accommodate client scheduling preferences and aim to conduct appraisals within two to four weeks of the initial request when possible.

Report Delivery: Final appraisal reports are delivered electronically in PDF format or, upon request, in printed form. Standard delivery timelines will be agreed upon during the initial consultation. Expedited options may be available for an additional fee.

Confidentiality Policy

Client Information: All client information and appraisal records are strictly confidential and are not shared with third parties unless explicitly authorized by the client or required by law.

Secure Data Handling: We employ robust security measures to protect the confidentiality and integrity of client data, both in digital and physical formats.

Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy

Cancellations: Clients may cancel or reschedule an appraisal appointment free of charge up to 48 hours before the scheduled time. Cancellations or rescheduling requests made less than 48 hours in advance may be subject to a fee.

Rescheduling: We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise. Please contact us as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment. We will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

Satisfaction Guarantee

Client Satisfaction: Our goal is to provide appraisals that meet our clients' needs and exceed their expectations. If you have concerns about your appraisal report, please contact us within 30 days of receipt to discuss adjustments or clarifications.

Revisions: After receiving your appraisal report, please review it carefully. If you have questions or believe there are factual errors, contact us immediately. Minor revisions or clarifications can often be addressed without additional charge. If substantial revisions are required due to a change in scope, or newly discovered information, additional fees may apply.

Refund Policy: At BZH Appraisal Associates, Inc., refunds are available for services not rendered, appraisals with uncorrectable significant mistakes, and for appointments cancelled over 48 hours in advance. To qualify for a refund, clients must request it within 30 days following the scheduled service date. Each request will be carefully assessed to ensure it meets our terms for eligibility, with approved refunds issued to the original payment method within a 30-day timeframe. Please note, fees for expedited services and satisfactorily completed appraisals are not eligible for refunds. For any questions or to initiate a refund request, kindly reach out to us.

Contact US 

For questions, scheduling appraisals, or discussing our services further, please contact us here.  Our team at BZH Appraisal Associates, Inc. is dedicated to providing you with professional, confidential, and accurate appraisal services.