Vehicle valuation / Total-loss review

Total Loss Appraisals & Valuation Report Reviews

Understand the evidence behind a vehicle's value before the loss. Get an independent review of the vehicle details, market comparisons and adjustments used in a total-loss valuation.

Request a total-loss appraisal

Tell us the vehicle, location, loss date and the valuation you want reviewed. We confirm suitability, scope, fee and delivery arrangements before work begins.

A closer look at the value, not just the offer

A total-loss valuation may contain incorrect equipment, mileage, condition details or comparisons that deserve a closer look. California United Appraisals reviews the available documents and relevant market evidence for an agreed valuation date and purpose.

A supported appraisal may agree with the existing valuation or reach a different conclusion. We explain the evidence and limitations rather than promise a higher payment.

Total-loss vehicle appraisal

A documented opinion of the vehicle's pre-loss market value, based on its identity, condition, history and relevant comparisons. The assignment method and required report are confirmed first.

Valuation report review & rebuttal support

Review the insurer or valuation provider's report for factual discrepancies, comparability and explained adjustments. Where supported, the agreed deliverable identifies corrections and the evidence behind them.

What we review

The vehicle in the file

  • VIN, year, make, model, trim, mileage and factory equipment.
  • Pre-loss condition, maintenance, prior damage and title history available for review.
  • Documented modifications, restoration work and other relevant records.

The market behind the number

  • Valuation date, relevant location and comparable vehicles.
  • Differences in specification, mileage, condition and history.
  • The basis of adjustments and whether a source is a verified sale or an asking price.

A purchase price, loan balance, repair bill or amount spent on modifications does not automatically establish pre-loss market value. Each is considered only for what it supports.

Prepare a useful review file

  • The complete valuation report and any revised versions, including comparable-vehicle pages and adjustments.
  • Vehicle details, loss date, location and intended report recipient.
  • Pre-loss photos, available maintenance records, equipment information and prior-damage history.
  • Relevant purchase paperwork and receipts for documented upgrades or restoration.
  • The specific factual items or valuation questions you want addressed.

Start with a brief inquiry. After confirming the assignment, we provide the appropriate way to share documents. Remove unrelated personal information.

From inquiry to written findings

  1. Share the essentials. Describe the vehicle, loss and report you want reviewed.
  2. Agree on the assignment. Confirm documentation, inspection needs, scope, fee and timing.
  3. Review the evidence. Additional records or photographs may be needed before a conclusion can be supported.
  4. Receive the agreed deliverable. The report explains its basis, valuation date, assumptions and limits.

Scope, availability & pricing

Total-loss appraisal and report-review fees are quoted after reviewing the assignment. Existing repair-estimate, classic-car and diminished-value rates do not automatically apply.

Remote inquiries are welcome nationwide. Acceptance depends on the vehicle location, intended use, applicable requirements, available evidence and capacity. A field inspection can be discussed when it is necessary and locally available.

We do not determine policy coverage, give legal advice, negotiate a settlement under this service, or guarantee insurer acceptance or a payment increase. Confirm policy requirements and deadlines with the appropriate insurer or qualified legal professional; ordering a report does not extend a deadline.

Common total-loss questions

Can you review a CCC, Mitchell or other valuation report?

We can review the supplied report as part of an agreed assignment, including the vehicle information, comparisons and adjustments it contains. This does not imply affiliation with, endorsement by or access to the valuation provider's systems.

Is total loss the same as diminished value?

No. A total-loss appraisal addresses the vehicle's value before the loss. Diminished value addresses a possible remaining market-value effect of damage history after repairs. Read about diminished-value appraisals.

Can you guarantee the insurer will increase its offer?

No. Our work provides a supported opinion or review within the agreed scope. A different payment, coverage decision or acceptance of the report is not guaranteed.

Does a desktop appraisal include an inspection?

No. A desktop assignment relies on the supplied records and market evidence. If an in-person inspection is needed, its location, availability and cost are confirmed separately. Explore field inspections.

What if I am keeping the salvage vehicle?

Tell us before commissioning the work and share the valuation and any proposed salvage deduction. Market-value findings and settlement deductions are distinct questions. The scope must identify which figures require review; we do not decide policy or legal entitlement.

Start with the valuation you have

Describe your vehicle, city and state, loss date and the questions you need answered. We will confirm the appropriate next step before accepting the assignment.

Discuss your total-loss valuation

General vehicle appraisals · Classic & collector vehicles · Coverage and availability