You don't legally need one, but an independent appraiser helps when you and an insurer disagree on a number. That's usually a diminished value claim, an appraisal-clause dispute, a low total loss offer, or a photo estimate that missed damage.
You weren't at fault and your repaired vehicle is worth less. You and your own insurer disagree on the repair amount or total loss value and want to use the appraisal clause. The insurer's estimate was written from photos and the repair facility is finding more damage.
The damage is minor, the estimate matches your repair facility's, and the insurer is paying what's needed. Geoff will tell you honestly if hiring an appraiser isn't worth it.
Ask about experience on both sides of a claim, how the appraiser documents an opinion, and whether they inspect in person.
Three sides to every claim. I've worked all of them. Geoffrey C. Albach has spent 33 years as an independent appraiser, a former insurance staff adjuster for Erie (property damage, then heavy equipment), and a collision repair operations director. He opened the first PDA franchise in Charlottesville in 1993, at age 19.
Three sides to every claim. I've worked all of them. Geoffrey C. Albach has spent 33 years in the industry as an independent appraiser, a former insurance staff adjuster, and a collision repair operations director.
By Geoffrey C. Albach, independent auto damage appraiser · About Geoff
Related guides: The Appraisal Clause Umpire Process, Step by Step · Should I Accept the Insurance Company's Estimate? · How Is Diminished Value Calculated? · All guides
Areas we serve: Lynchburg · Roanoke · Charlottesville · All areas
No. But insurers rarely change a number without documentation.
Inspects the vehicle, documents damage or lost value, and supports your side of a dispute over the number.
Yes. Under a typical clause, you choose your own appraiser.
General information, not legal advice. Talk to a Virginia attorney about your specific claim.
Call or text Geoff at 434-665-6059. Lynchburg, VA.
