Total-Loss Vehicle Offer Review Checklist
Eight things to review before deciding whether a written insurer valuation is reasonable.
An insurer's written vehicle valuation is a starting point for a settlement discussion. Before accepting an offer, review the report against the actual vehicle and the available market evidence. This checklist is intended for Canadian vehicle owners, with Ontario-specific appraisal rights explained separately.
- Confirm the vehicle's identity. Check year, make, model, body style, trim, drivetrain and any identifiable factory or dealer-installed options.
- Verify the kilometre reading. Compare the report with the most recent reliable record. Ask about mileage adjustments if the report uses a different figure.
- Review pre-loss condition. Look at photographs, service records, repair history and the reasons for any condition adjustment.
- Examine comparable vehicles. Ask whether the model, trim, equipment, location, listing date and condition make each comparable relevant.
- Understand the valuation adjustments. Look for explainable differences in equipment, kilometres, condition and local market availability.
- Separate value from payment calculations. Identify the base actual cash value, applicable taxes, deductibles, salvage deductions and any other policy-specific items.
- Request missing documentation. Ask for the complete valuation report and any supporting material needed to understand an adjustment or settlement component.
- Understand the next step. Consider an independent review when material questions remain. In Ontario, formal appraisal rights may be available under the applicable policy and Section 128 conditions.
What to Have Ready for IA Reports
Vehicle year, make, model, trim, approximate kilometres, city or province, the insurer's latest written offer and specific questions about the valuation. We will explain how to transfer any sensitive documents once the scope is discussed.
Request a Complimentary Total-Loss Review →What an Independent Appraiser Can Do
An appraiser can check the subject details, examine the supporting evidence and document a reasoned opinion where a material difference exists. A review may confirm the insurer's estimate or identify an issue that warrants discussion. Neither a valuation increase nor a particular settlement result can be guaranteed.
Learn about Ontario Section 128, actual cash value and our research approach.
General information only; policy wording, eligibility and procedures vary with the claim and province.