Welcome to Antique Appraisal Experts ("we," "our," or "us"). These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your access to and use of our website, appraisal services, and any related communications. By using our website or engaging our services, you agree to be bound by these Terms. If you do not agree, please do not use our website or services.

1. Our Appraisal Services

We provide professional antique and collectibles appraisal services. Our appraisers are certified members of recognized professional organizations and adhere to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP). Appraisal reports are prepared based on our examination of items, market research, and professional judgment.

Types of Appraisals

• Fair Market Value: The price at which property would change hands between a willing buyer and willing seller.
• Replacement Value: The cost to replace an item with one of similar age, quality, and condition, typically used for insurance purposes.
• Liquidation Value: The price an item would bring in a forced sale.
• Preliminary Estimate: A verbal or written estimate based on photos or limited information, not a formal USPAP-compliant appraisal.

You will be informed of the type of valuation being provided before we begin work.

2. Engagement and Fees

Fee Structure

Our fees are based on time, expertise, and complexity of the assignment. We charge either an hourly rate or a flat fee per item, as agreed upon before work begins. Fees are never based on a percentage of the appraised value, ensuring unbiased valuations. A written estimate will be provided prior to commencement of services.

Payment Terms

Payment is due upon delivery of the appraisal report, unless otherwise agreed in writing. We accept major credit cards, bank transfers, and checks. Late payments may be subject to interest charges at the rate of 1.5% per month or the maximum allowed by law. Client is responsible for any collection costs incurred.

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel an appointment or engagement less than 48 hours before the scheduled time, a cancellation fee equal to 50% of the estimated fee may apply. If we have already begun work, you will be charged for time and expenses incurred up to the cancellation date.

3. Client Responsibilities

As a client, you agree to:

• Provide accurate and complete information about the items to be appraised, including any known provenance, condition issues, or restoration history.
• Provide safe access to items for examination, including during on-site visits.
• Refrain from cleaning, repairing, or altering items before appraisal without prior consultation.
• Inform us if items have been previously appraised and provide copies of prior reports.
• Notify us of any security or insurance concerns regarding the items.

4. Appraisal Reports

Report Delivery

Formal USPAP-compliant appraisal reports are typically delivered within 5-10 business days after inspection, depending on complexity. Reports are provided in PDF format via email, with physical copies available upon request for an additional fee. Rush services may be available for an additional charge.

Report Ownership and Use

The appraisal report is prepared for the exclusive use of the client named in the report. It may not be distributed, reproduced, or relied upon by any third party without our written consent, except as required by law. The report is valid only for the purpose stated (insurance, estate, etc.) and for the effective date specified.

Limitations

Our appraisals are based on the information available at the time of inspection and research. We do not perform scientific testing (e.g., carbon dating, pigment analysis) unless specifically requested and paid for separately. Our opinions are professional judgments and do not constitute warranties or guarantees of authenticity, though we apply the highest standards of research and expertise.

5. Confidentiality

We maintain strict confidentiality regarding all client information, item details, and appraisal results. We do not disclose client identities or valuation information to third parties without your written authorization, except as required by law, court order, or professional ethics obligations. Our appraisers are bound by the confidentiality requirements of their professional organizations.

6. Liability and Limitations

Professional Liability

We perform appraisal services with the degree of skill and care ordinarily exercised by qualified appraisers under similar circumstances. Our liability for any claim arising out of our services is limited to the total fees paid for the specific appraisal that is the subject of the claim. Under no circumstances shall we be liable for consequential, incidental, or punitive damages.

No Guarantee of Value or Sale

Our appraisals reflect our professional opinion of value based on current market conditions. We do not guarantee that items will sell for the appraised value, that insurance companies will accept the valuation, or that any particular outcome will result from the appraisal. Market values fluctuate, and past performance does not predict future results.

Third-Party Reliance

Our reports are prepared for the named client and specified purpose. Any third party relying on our report does so at their own risk. We disclaim any liability to third parties who use or rely on our reports without our written authorization.

7. Intellectual Property

All content on our website, including text, graphics, logos, images, and software, is the property of Antique Appraisal Experts or our licensors and is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, modify, or create derivative works of our content without our express written permission. Appraisal reports are provided for your personal use and may not be reproduced or distributed except as permitted by these Terms.

8. Website Use

You agree to use our website only for lawful purposes and in a manner that does not infringe on the rights of others or restrict their use of the website. Prohibited activities include:

• Attempting to interfere with website security or functionality
• Using automated systems to access or extract data
• Uploading malicious code or content
• Impersonating any person or entity
• Violating any applicable laws or regulations

9. Dispute Resolution

Governing Law

These Terms and any disputes arising from our services shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to conflict of law principles.

Informal Resolution

In the event of a dispute, both parties agree to first attempt to resolve the matter informally through good-faith discussions. Please contact us at support@pookandpook.pro with any concerns.

Binding Arbitration

If informal resolution fails, any dispute arising from these Terms or our services shall be resolved through binding arbitration administered by the American Arbitration Association under its Commercial Arbitration Rules. Arbitration shall take place in New York, NY. The arbitrator's decision shall be final and binding. Each party shall bear its own costs and fees.

10. Termination

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate our services and your access to our website at any time, for any reason, including violation of these Terms. Upon termination, any unpaid fees remain due and payable.

11. Modifications to Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date. Continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of the modified Terms. Material changes will be communicated via email when reasonably possible.

12. Severability and Waiver

If any provision of these Terms is found to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect. Our failure to enforce any right or provision does not constitute a waiver of that right.

13. Contact Information

If you have questions about these Terms or our services, please contact us:

Antique Appraisal Experts
463 E LANCASTER AVE
Downingtown, PA
Email: support@pookandpook.pro
Phone: 213-464-3490

By using our website or engaging our services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service.