Find an independent auto appraiser

When you invoke your policy's appraisal clause, you appoint your own appraiser. This directory lists independent shops that handle total-loss and diminished-value appraisals. Listings are free — Residual sells valuation data, not appraisals, and takes no referral fee from anyone.

Firms serving multiple states

By state

What to look for in an appointed appraiser

• Flat-fee pricing. Insurers challenge contingency-paid appraisers as not "disinterested" — the standard most policies require. Flat-fee shops are the defensible choice.
• Comparable-sales-based reports. The appraisal process is argued in comps and adjustments. Ask how they source comparable sales, and whether their comps are realized sales or asking prices.
• Your state, your vehicle class. Appraiser licensing varies by state; ask about experience with your situation (total loss vs. diminished value, standard vs. specialty vehicles).

How the process works

Most auto policies let either party demand appraisal when you disagree with the insurer about the value of your loss: each side appoints a competent, disinterested appraiser; the appraisers select an umpire; and agreement of any two of the three binds both parties. Each side pays its own appraiser and splits the umpire. Whether the gap justifies the cost is exactly the math our guides walk through.

In Texas the appraisal clause is now mandatory in every personal auto policy issued or renewed from January 1, 2026, with hard deadlines on both sides — see our plain-language guide to SB 458 and the new appraisal process.