Knowledge Center
What Does an Appraiser Do During the Appraisal Process?
An explanation of the appraiser's role, the evidence they may review, and how they develop a professional opinion of the disputed amount.
The Appraiser's Role
In the context of an insurance appraisal, an appraiser is selected by one of the parties to independently evaluate the disputed valuation or amount-of-loss issue within the scope of the applicable appraisal provision. The appraiser's responsibility is to develop a professional, evidence-based opinion — not to advocate for a predetermined outcome.
Each party typically selects its own appraiser. While each appraiser is selected by a party, the appraiser's function is to conduct an independent professional analysis. Many appraisal provisions require that appraisers be competent, independent, or disinterested — the specific requirements depend on the policy.
What an Appraiser Does
The appraiser's primary task is to evaluate the disputed amount — whether that is the Actual Cash Value of a vehicle, the cost of repairs, or another amount-of-loss issue within the scope of the appraisal. The appraiser gathers, reviews, and analyzes relevant evidence to develop a supported professional opinion.
After developing their opinion, the appraisers communicate with each other to discuss their findings and attempt to reach agreement. If they cannot agree on all issues, the unresolved differences may be submitted to a neutral umpire according to the applicable process.
Evidence an Appraiser May Review
The specific evidence relevant to an appraisal depends on the type of dispute. Not every item below applies to every appraisal — the nature of the disagreement determines what evidence is relevant:
- Vehicle specifications — year, make, model, trim level, and configuration
- Mileage — actual and adjusted for market conditions where applicable
- Condition — overall condition of the vehicle at the time of loss
- Options and equipment — factory and dealer-installed options that affect value
- Comparable vehicles — market listings of similar vehicles in the relevant geographic area
- Market data and valuation reports — industry valuation tools and market research
- Photographs — documentation of the vehicle's condition before and after the loss
- Repair estimates — written estimates of the cost to repair damage
- Invoices — parts, labor, and other repair-related documentation
- Prior damage documentation — evidence of pre-existing damage where relevant
- Modifications — aftermarket or custom modifications that may affect value
- Supporting documentation — any other evidence relevant to the disputed amount
Professional Analysis and Documentation
A professional appraisal is not simply a matter of selecting a number from a valuation report. It involves reviewing the available evidence, applying relevant methodology, and developing a supported opinion that can be explained and defended.
Documentation is a critical component of a professional appraisal. An appraiser should be able to explain the basis for their opinion — what evidence they reviewed, what methodology they applied, and why their conclusion is supported by the available data.
The depth and scope of the analysis will vary depending on the complexity of the dispute, the type of vehicle, and the nature of the disagreement. A straightforward total-loss valuation may involve different evidence than a complex repair dispute or a specialty vehicle appraisal.
Educational Disclaimer
A1 Auto Appraisals is an independent vehicle appraisal company and is not a law firm. The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Insurance policies, appraisal provisions, claim circumstances, and applicable laws vary. Questions concerning legal rights, insurance policy interpretation, or applicable law should be directed to a qualified attorney in the applicable jurisdiction.