Everything You Need to Know About Vehicle Appraisals
1. What does a vehicle appraiser do?
A vehicle appraiser inspects your car after an accident or for a valuation and creates an official appraisal report. This report helps with insurance claims or when selling your car.
2. When do I need a vehicle appraiser?
3. Who pays for the vehicle appraiser?
In the case of an accident where you are not at fault, the other party’s insurance covers the full cost of the appraisal. For you as the claimant, the appraisal is usually free.
4. Can I choose my own vehicle appraiser?
Yes. As the claimant, you have the right to choose your own appraiser. You do not have to accept the appraiser appointed by the other party’s insurance. An independent appraiser represents only your interests.
5. What is the difference between an appraisal and a cost estimate?
A cost estimate only includes repair costs.
An appraisal is much more comprehensive and includes, among other things:
- Repair costs
- Depreciation
- Replacement value
- Residual value
- Loss of use or rental car costs
For full damage settlement, an appraisal is usually the better choice.
6. What is a liability claim?
A liability claim occurs when another driver caused the accident. In this case, the other party’s liability insurance covers all accident-related costs, including the appraiser, repairs, rental car, and depreciation.
7. What is a comprehensive insurance claim?
A comprehensive claim involves damage you caused yourself or damage from vandalism, wildlife accidents, or hail. Settlement is through your own partial or full comprehensive insurance.
8. What if you caused the accident yourself – is an appraisal worthwhile or is a cost estimate enough? And who pays?
If you caused the accident, it depends on the situation:
Cost estimate is often enough if:
- The damage is minor.
- Repair costs are clearly below your deductible.
- The insurance only needs a simple calculation.
Appraisal is advisable if:
- The damage is significant or you need the exact vehicle value.
- There is a dispute with the insurance.
- You want to check if repairs are worthwhile (economic total loss).
- You need proof of the damage amount.
9. Who pays for the appraisal in this case?
For self-caused accidents with comprehensive insurance: You usually pay the cost yourself unless your policy covers it.
For liability claims (you are not at fault): The other party’s insurance pays for the appraisal.
10. Is depreciation of my vehicle considered?
Yes. For newer or high-value vehicles, a market depreciation often occurs because the car is considered an accident vehicle even after repair. This is included in the appraisal and reimbursed by the insurance.
11. Can you have the damage paid out?
Yes. You have the right to a cash settlement. This means you can have the repair costs determined in the appraisal paid out without repairing the car.
12. What is loss of use?
If your car is not drivable due to the accident, you are entitled to compensation for loss of use or a rental car. The amount depends on the vehicle class and repair duration.
13. Do you also need a lawyer?
A specialist lawyer for traffic law can be helpful, especially if there are issues with the insurance. In a no-fault accident, the other party’s insurance also covers legal fees.
14. Are your appraisals recognized by courts and insurance companies?
Yes. Our appraisals are neutral, independent, and comply with legal standards. They are legally valid and accepted by all insurance companies, giving you security in claims and legal disputes.
15. How long does it take to prepare an appraisal?
Usually, the appraisal is completed within 24 to 48 hours after the vehicle inspection and sent to you and the insurance company.
16. Does my car need to be taken to a workshop?
No. On request, the inspection can take place at your location – e.g., at home, at work, or in the workshop. This saves time and effort.
17. How can you schedule an appointment?
You can reach us by phone, WhatsApp, or via the contact form. Short-notice appointments, even on the same day, are usually possible.
18. What should you do immediately after an accident to ensure everything is handled correctly?
1. Secure the accident site.
2. Record the following details of the other party:
- Name and address
- Vehicle license plate
- Insurance details (company name + policy number)
- Phone number for inquiries
3. Take photos:
- Damage to your car and the other vehicle
- Accident site and vehicle positions
4. Contact us as soon as possible:
- By phone, email, or online form
5. Have the following information ready:
- Vehicle registration
- Accident report
- Photos of the damage
- Details of the other party
6. We handle the rest:
- Prepare the appraisal
- Forward it to the insurance
- If you have legal protection or need a lawyer:
We forward your case to our partner lawyers so you don’t have to worry about anything.
In short: Secure the site, record details, take photos, and contact us – we take care of everything else.
19. Do you also prepare appraisals for classic cars or electric vehicles?
Yes. Appraisals can also be prepared for classic cars, electric vehicles, leased vehicles, and motorcycles. Special valuation criteria are considered.
20. Why do I need a valuation for race cars, track tools, or modified vehicles?
A valuation for race cars or heavily modified vehicles is important because the actual value often differs significantly from the standard value. Insurers and buyers cannot accurately assess the value without an appraisal.
- Proof of modifications and value (e.g., tuning, motorsport parts)
- A secure basis for insurance coverage (e.g., theft or total loss)
- Negotiation leverage when buying or selling
- Documentation for value appreciation or investments
Without an appraisal, you risk the insurance paying only the standard value in case of damage – which can mean thousands of euros in losses.