Body builders Auto

Your Right to an Auto Insurance Appraisal

Closeup of the Century Collision Center sign on the side of a white brick building.
Pristine shop room floor and repair bays at Century Collision Center.
Upscale waiting area inside Century Collision Center.
Alternate view of shop floor filled with cars at Century Collision Center.
Street view of Porsche repair center on the Century Collision Center campus.
How it works

What Is Right To Appraisal?

A Right to Appraisal (RTA) is a provision in many auto insurance policies that helps resolve disputes over repair costs or a vehicle’s value after a collision. If you and your insurance company can’t agree, each side selects an independent appraiser, and a neutral umpire is brought in if needed. RTA focuses on the value of the claim, not fault or insurance coverage.

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How Does Right to Appraisal Work?

1. Request an Appraisal

If you disagree with your insurance company’s estimate to repair OR your settlement offer (in the event of a total loss), you can formally request the appraisal process.

2. Each Party Hires an Appraiser

A. You hire a professional appraiser to evaluate the repair costs (hint: we got a guy).
B. Your insurance company hires their own appraiser.

3. Neutral Umpire Resolves Disputes

If the appraisers cannot agree, a neutral umpire reviews both findings and makes a binding decision.

4. Final Settlement

The amount determined by the umpire becomes the official value your insurance must pay.

AT A GLANCE

What to Remember About Right to Appraisal

A Right to Appraisal can be a valuable option if you and your insurance company disagree on repair costs or the value of your claim. While the process may take additional time, it provides an independent way to resolve disputes and helps support fair, accurate repairs.

Why Your Right to Appraisal Matters

– What it resolves: RTA resolves repair cost or total loss disputes without affecting fault or coverage. Check your policy or ask your agent to confirm this option.
– Costs: You pay for your appraiser, and the insurance company pays for theirs. The cost of the umpire is typically shared.
– Your Rights Matter: RTA ensures your car is repaired to the highest standard, even with cost disputes.
– This does add TIME.

Download Right to Appraisal