Guide
What happens after you receive your appraisal
You send the appraisal and your custom demand letter to the adjuster handling the at-fault driver’s property-damage claim. The insurer may accept, make a counteroffer, ask questions about the report, or deny the claim. Keep everything in writing, watch your state’s deadline, and call our support staff if the insurer questions the report.
By the Autoloss team · Published
1. Send the report and demand letter
Email or mail the appraisal and your custom demand letter to the adjuster, with the claim number. Ask the adjuster to confirm receipt in writing. Keep copies of everything you send and receive.
2. How the insurer may respond
- Accepts the figure: the insurer pays the amount in the demand.
- Counteroffer: the insurer offers less, sometimes using its own formula. You can accept, respond with reasons, or pursue other options.
- Questions about the report: for example about the comparables or adjustments. Call our support staff at (877) 655-1661; we answer questions about how the report was prepared.
- Denial: the insurer may argue that no value was lost, that your state or policy doesn’t allow the claim, or that fault is disputed.
3. If you can’t agree
Your options depend on your state and the amount involved. They can include small claims court, an attorney, or a complaint to your state insurance department. Every state has a deadline to sue for property damage, and talking with the insurer does not pause it.
4. Before you sign anything
A settlement release may close your whole property-damage claim. Make sure it covers only what you intend to settle.
Common questions
How long do insurers take to respond?
It varies by insurer and state. Many states have claim-handling rules that require insurers to acknowledge and respond to claims within set periods. If an insurer stops responding, a written complaint to your state insurance department is free.
Can Autoloss negotiate with the insurer for me?
No. Autoloss is not a public adjuster or law firm. We prepare the appraisal and demand letter and answer the insurer’s questions about how the report was prepared. You, or your attorney, handle the claim.
Should I sign the release the insurer sent?
Read it carefully first. A release can end your property-damage claim, including diminished value. If you are unsure what it covers, ask an attorney before signing.
Keep reading
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Total loss
Total loss valuation terms, explained
Actual cash value, comparables, condition adjustments and more.
Not sure whether an appraisal will help?
The claim review is free: we look at your situation and tell you whether an appraisal is likely to help. The appraisal itself is a paid report. We help from start to finish, including a custom demand letter, and our support staff is a phone call away throughout the process.