Question 1

Who pays for the appraisal?

Accepted Answer

If you did not cause the accident, the opposing liability insurer pays the expert's fee (§ 249 BGB). You pay nothing in advance. Exception: minor damage below approx. €750 – a cost estimate is usually sufficient there.

Question 2

Can I choose my own expert?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You are not bound to the expert sent by the insurer. As the injured party you have the right to freely choose an independent expert you trust.

Question 3

How quickly can I get an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Usually within 24 hours. On request we come directly to you – at home, at your company, at the repair shop or at the accident scene.

Question 4

How long does the appraisal take?

Accepted Answer

Usually 1–2 working days after the inspection. On request we send it directly to the insurer, your lawyer and the repair shop.

Question 5

From what point is an appraisal worthwhile?

Accepted Answer

From around €750 in damage (gross). Below that it is considered minor damage, for which a cost estimate is sufficient. We tell you free of charge from a few photos whether your case is above that.

Question 6

What is diminished market value?

Accepted Answer

Even a properly repaired vehicle is worth less on the used car market because it had an accident. We quantify this loss – it is a separate, reimbursable item of damage.

Question 7

What is loss of use?

Accepted Answer

If you cannot use your vehicle and do not rent a replacement, you are entitled to compensation per day of downtime. The amount depends on the vehicle class, which we determine in the report.

Question 8

Which documents do I need?

Accepted Answer

Vehicle registration, driving licence, accident report or police reference number, details of the other party and – if available – repair receipts for prior damage. If anything is missing we sort it out together.

Question 9

What applies in cases of shared fault?

Accepted Answer

Even with partial liability the damage is settled proportionally. A neutral appraisal is then particularly important because every item must be documented precisely.

Question 10

Do you also work with Turkish or English speaking clients?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Consultation, inspection and explanation of the report are available in German, English and Turkish. The report itself is prepared in German for the insurer.

The key questions – answered briefly

The key questions – answered briefly

What does an appraisal cost?

Accident you did not cause

Damage you caused yourself

Minor damage under approx. €750

Valuation, defect & lease reports

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