Our Valuation Process

Our clients don’t just buy results — they buy confidence in the process.

How It Works...

Our valuation process usually takes place quickly. But there is a lot of things happening to make sure we can provide accurate high quality data. Below is quick over of our process with additional information below. This may not answer all of your questions, but that's what we are here for. Just give us a shout!

1. Contact us and provide the necessary details.

Complete our web form or give us a call — whichever is easiest for you. We’ll take the time to understand your needs and walk you through our services. We’re here to listen. We know that settling a total loss, determining diminished value, or buying or selling a vehicle can be stressful. Online information isn’t always accurate or reliable, but fortunately, we are. Most importantly, we believe in being upfront and honest. If we don’t think we can help you, we’ll tell you. Simple as that.

2. Complete and send the needed information.

After our initial conversation, we'll email you a few links:

Service agreement – our standard agreement explaining what's included in the service you're paying for
Information form – to update your contact details, vehicle information, and details for any insurance companies or other parties involved

You'll also complete payment online at this time. We accept major credit cards, debit cards with a credit card logo, PayPal, and more.

3. We'll start right away conducting thorough research.

Once we have all the necessary details, our team will begin in-depth market driven research and a thorough evaluation of the data. If you're settling a total loss you may have limited time in a rental vehicle, or you may be up against a statute of limitations to pursue a diminished value claim. We get it...time is of the essence! Most valuations take just a few business days. Some more complex cases may require additional time. We'll keep you informed should we run into any delays.

4. A comprehensive independent valuation to your inbox.

Once our research is complete, we'll send your comprehensive valuation report directly to your email and review our findings with you. Your appraisal provides credible, market-supported evidence to help you challenge a disputed vehicle value. If you and your insurer are unable to reach an agreement and your policy provides an appraisal clause, we can continue supporting you as your selected appraiser. If necessary, we can also remain involved through the umpire process, providing professional valuation support from the initial appraisal through final resolution.

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Important Notes:

Insurance Negotiation Process:

Invoking the Appraisal Clause

Many people are unaware of what an appraisal clause is or how it works. In brief, an appraisal clause is a provision in an insurance policy that allows the insured and the insurer to resolve disputes over the value of a loss (not coverage). If invoked, each side selects an independent appraiser, and those two appraisers choose a neutral umpire. If they can’t agree on the amount, the umpire steps in—and a decision agreed to by any two of the three is typically binding. Know that this applies to first-party (insured) claims. Meaning your own insurance company. It is applied regardless of fault provided proper coverage is in order.

Additional note: Often, this is sold by appraisers as a secret benefit or weapon of your coverage. In reality, it's generally a standard contract clause to resolve disputes without legal action. This process, when invoked, often adds time to the resolution (to which your insurance company may not be required to pay for a rental car during this time, if at all applicable) and may carry additional out of pocket costs for you if an umpire is needed.

Tips for Negotiating Your Insurance Settlement

Be prepared. Support your position with objective documentation, such as an independent appraisal, vehicle history, maintenance records, receipts, or comparable sales.
Stay professional. Keep conversations courteous and focused on the facts rather than emotions.
Ask questions. If you disagree with the settlement offer, ask the adjuster to explain how the value was determined and request the supporting documentation.
Review the evidence. Compare the insurer's valuation with your own supporting information and identify any factual differences.
Document everything. Keep records of emails, letters, estimates, and notes from phone conversations, including dates and the names of those involved.
Know your options. If you are unable to reach an agreement, your policy or state law may provide additional options, such as an appraisal clause or other dispute resolution process.

Please Note: Autopraisal provides independent vehicle appraisals and market analysis. We do not negotiate insurance claims, provide legal advice, or guarantee any specific settlement outcome.

Service Areas

Autopraisal proudly provides independent vehicle appraisal services throughout Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio. Appraisals are completed remotely using vehicle documentation, provided photographs, repair estimates, market research, and comparable sales data, allowing us to efficiently serve clients across all three states without requiring an on-site inspection.

Whether you need a Total Loss Appraisal, Diminished Value Appraisal, or Salvage Value Appraisal, you'll receive the same USPAP-compliant, evidence-based valuation regardless of your location. Our streamlined virtual process makes it easy to obtain a professional appraisal from the comfort of your home while maintaining the thorough research and independent analysis every assignment deserves.