What is the Appraisal Clause on a total loss?
By Jeff Zigman, TRUEclaims · Updated
The short answer
It's a provision in most auto policies that lets either side ask for an appraisal when they disagree on a car's value. Each side picks an appraiser, and if the two can't agree, an umpire decides. It resolves the value dispute without a lawsuit, which is why total losses can settle quickly.
The dispute is narrow: what the car was worth before the loss. A valuation built from real comparable vehicles (same trim, similar mileage, nearby) is the evidence that matters.
With True Claims, a pre-vetted independent appraiser handles the negotiation with the insurer. Most TRUEclaims total losses have settled within 1–2 weeks (past results).
Policy wording varies, so read the owner's policy for its exact appraisal terms and deadlines.
Take the property-damage-only calls nearby firms turn away
More questions
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- How does an insurer calculate a total loss value?
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General information, not legal advice. Figures are past True Claims results or illustrative, as labelled. TRUEclaims is not a law firm.