Auto Insurance Claim FAQs – Washington Drivers’ Guide

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A Public Adjuster represents you, the policyholder, in negotiating your insurance claim, ensuring your payout reflects the full covered amount, and protecting your rights as a consumer.  A Public Adjuster is legally banned from representing anyone other than a policy holder so you can be sure there are no loyalty conflicts in the representation of the customers claim.  In addition, Public adjusters are very familiar with complex policy language and state insurance regulation, often giving clients an advantage over the insurance adjuster.

An Appraiser, evaluates the value of property.  In auto claims, that can be the damage amount, the vehicle value, diminished value, or loss of use.  Appraisers are often brought in when there’s a dispute over any of these values, or for assistance in establishing values.  Appraisers are not restricted in who they can represent in their evaluations, which means they can represent a consumer and also represent an insurance carrier - though, not in the same transaction.

Claim Complete Auto Appraisals is both of these - meaning that we advocate for our clients in 100% of the services we provide.  And with over 25 years of insider experience, we are very infirmed and adept at interpreting policy language and insurance regulation to defend your rights to fair treatment in your claim.

There are four types of adjusters in Washington:

• Generally, Adjuster means any person who either investigates and negotiates settlement relative to insurance claims, or applies the factual circumstances of an insurance claim to the insurance policy provisions, or both, arising under property and casualty insurance contracts.
• An Independent adjuster means an adjuster representing the interests of the insurer.
• Public adjuster means an adjuster employed by and representing solely the financial interests of the insured named in the policy.

This is important, because it could be easily confused that an 'Independent Adjuster' would  be impartial, but in fact represents the insurance company - While a Public Adjuster provides you with an advantage by personally representing you in your claim.  More insurance definitions can be found here: https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=48.17.010

At a minimum, reach out as soon as you suspect your claim is undervalued, delayed, or denied, or if your having suspicions about how the insurance company is handling your claim.  If you’ve already received an offer that feels off, it’s not too late. Claim Complete Auto Appraisals can still review and help you challenge the result. 

Many people enjoy having help for their entire claim process and contact a Public Adjuster before speaking with the insurance company, or directly after giving their statement. Having your own representative can be a very welcome relief to claim stress and inconveniences.

The earlier a Public Adjuster or Appraiser gets involved, the easier it is to preserve evidence, negotiate fairly, and prevent irreversible claim decisions.  We can also assist with the repair process and questions along the way.

The length of your claim will depend on the complexity, if you are a first or third party claimant, and claim regulation set in place by the state.  Hiring assistance can take a little longer because PA's and Appraisers are challenging the insurance processes and values.  However, this is necessary to protect your financial interests.  

Appraisal clauses typically move faster than litigation and cost much less than hiring an attorney.  Your timeline can also depend on how quickly the insurer responds to document requests, payments, and inspections. 

CCA Appraisals will keep you updated regularly on progress and also check in if you would like to continue or settle the claim as is.  You are in control.

Even if you’ve cashed a check, you may still have options.
In Washington, acceptance of payment doesn’t always mean you’ve waived your right to dispute if the payment was incomplete or misleadingly presented as “final.”
A Public Adjuster can review your estimate, identify underpaid items, and request supplemental payment where justified. 

No - Public Adjusters are licensed to handle insurance negotiations, not legal proceedings.
If your case escalates to litigation, we can coordinate with a qualified attorney experienced in Washington insurance law to ensure continuity of your claim.

Our goal is to resolve disputes before they reach that stage. 

You have the right to choose any repair shop you trust - your insurer cannot legally require or penalize you for declining their preferred shop.
If the company claims you’ll owe extra, ask them to cite the exact policy language or regulation supporting that in writing.  In Washington, unfair steering practices violate WAC 284-30-390, and there are limitations to what would qualify in their refusal to cover expenses at you shop of choice.

A Public Adjuster or Appraiser can review your estimate to confirm if the insurer’s offer truly matches industry standards, and the insurers reasoning on denying a full repair payment. 

This is one of the most common conflicts. Shops use real-world labor rates and OEM procedures, while insurers often base payments on discounted rates or repair shortcuts included in their preferred repair program agreements or feel that some of the repair labor should be provided at no charge.
You can:

• Ask your shop for a copy of their estimate and ask if they can provide direction on what the insurance company is denying.
• Request your insurer to justify their lower estimate in writing, and specifically explain their reasoning.  If a specific repair operation is in dispute, request information supporting their justification over the trained repair centers methods.
• Bring in your own appraiser to document the fair or required repair cost under your appraisal clause.

CCA Appraisals can help you determine if the difference qualifies for an appraisal or supplemental claim.

If you disagree with your insurer’s valuation, estimate, or coverage decision, start by requesting a written explanation for how they reached it.  You can never be too detailed in documenting your claim experience.
You can then file a dispute under your policy’s appraisal clause or through the Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) if the issue involves unfair claim handling.
The key is to keep all communications in writing — and don’t feel pressured to accept a settlement that doesn’t make you whole. 

In fact, if your insurer is required to provide information to you on how to contact the Washington Insurance Commissioner if they; deny a claim, deny coverage, reduce amounts, or issue payments for less than what was submitted.  If that information wasn't provided to you, they are in violation of state insurance regulation.

Insurers must explain every denial in writing and identify which policy exclusion or limitation applies.  If the explanation is vague or seems inconsistent with your policy language, it may be an unreasonable denial under RCW 48.30.015 (Insurance Fair Conduct Act).

You can request a coverage review or seek representation from a Public Adjuster to challenge the denial and prepare an appeal or complaint with the OIC.  

Not entirely. While third-party claimants aren’t bound by the same contract as the at-fault driver’s insurer, Washington law still protects your right to a fair settlement although some of the processes to restore your losses may differ.
You can:

• File a complaint with the OIC if the insurer fails to act reasonably, and
• Seek guidance from a licensed Public Adjuster to document damages, negotiate for full reimbursement, and provide direction on next steps.

You still have rights — you just need to exercise them carefully.

This is common - and can also be illegal.  This can occur only if your policy does not provide coverage for your loss.  If you have Collision coverage on your policy, you are never required to wait for that company’s approval to start repairs or claim under your own policy.  Filing through your own insurer often moves faster, and they can later recover the cost from the at-fault party’s carrier - including your deductible.

If you’re unsure which route protects you best, we can help and guide your next step. 

“Bad faith” occurs when an insurer fails to act honestly or fairly when handling your claim - for example, by delaying payments, misrepresenting coverage, or undervaluing damage without justification.
In Washington, unfair claim practices are prohibited under WAC 284-30 and include behaviors like ignoring communications, failing to explain denials, or pressuring you to settle for less.

If an insurer isn’t treating you in good faith, you have the right to challenge it and request state review through the Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC).  In addition, you may also qualify to pursue an IFCA suit against the insurer.  

A public adjuster can review your claim and suggest next steps, assist with evidence, and file your commissioner complaint.

The Insurance Fair Conduct Act (RCW 48.30.015) protects Washington policyholders from unreasonable claim denials and violations of state insurance regulations.
Under IFCA, if your insurer unreasonably denies coverage or payment of benefits, you may be entitled to recover triple damages and attorney’s fees.
This law helps hold insurers accountable for handling claims properly — and it’s one of the strongest consumer protections in the country. 

The Washington State Insurance Commissioner's office oversees all licensed insurers operating in this state, and ensures they follow state laws protecting consumers.

Our Insurance Commissioner is Patty Kuderer, who was just appointed in January 2025, and hasn't wasted any time in showing her dedication to ensuring consumers are treated fairly in Washington.  There are several regulatory updates in process, some expecting to be initiated January 1, 2026.  CCA Appraisals will be sure to share news as it is available.

If you believe your insurer mishandled your claim or violated regulations, you can file a complaint directly with the OIC online at insurance.wa.gov/complaints or call 1-800-562-6900.

The Commissioner’s office will review your concern, contact your insurer for a response, and issue a written finding. 

Insurance companies in Washington must follow the Washington Administrative Code (WAC 284-30) and Revised Code of Washington (RCW 48.30), which outline minimum claim-handling standards.

For example, these laws require insurers to:

• Respond promptly to all communications,
• Conduct fair and objective investigations,
• Provide clear explanations for denials, and
• Pay all undisputed amounts quickly once liability is clear.

Failing to meet these standards can be considered an unfair claims practice or bad faith.

If you believe your insurer acted in bad faith, you have several options:

1. File a formal complaint with the Washington OIC.
2. Request a Coverage Review or involve a Public Adjuster to document unfair handling.
3. Consult an attorney if damages are significant or if IFCA violations apply.
   A Public Adjuster can often help you gather the evidence needed before escalating to legal action — saving time and building a stronger case.

Your policy’s Declarations Page (often called “Dec Page”) lists every policy option you’ve purchased, along with the limits, deductibles, and vehicles covered.

Your policy contract or policy jacket describes the specifics of exactly what is covered and not covered under each type of insurance your purchased.  It also provides definitions and other specifics, such as geographical locations your coverage may, or may not extend to.

You can request a copy of either of these documents directly from your agent or insurer at any time. Review them carefully and keep them available for reference - even a single line of omitted coverage (like rental reimbursement or comprehensive) can affect your options after an accident.

If something seems unclear or missing, a Public Adjuster can help interpret the language and explain what protection you actually have. 

Collision covers damage from impact or vehicle upset (roll-over) - hitting another vehicle, object, or rolling your car.
 

Comprehensive covers almost everything else that isn’t a collision, such as theft, vandalism, fire, flood, falling objects, or hitting an animal.

Think of it this way: collision is “you hit something,” and comprehensive is “something hit you.” Often, a clarifying standard is if the object in question was touching, or touched, the roadway prior to impact with the vehicle.  Both may carry separate deductibles.

Standard Washington Repairs your own vehicle after an impact.
p.  These coverages are purchased individually.  One common misconception is that 'Full Coverage' includes them all, when in fact usually only provides Liability, Comprehensive, and Collision coverages.   

• Liability Coverage: Pays others for injuries or property damage you cause. Liability coverage is a contract between you and your insurance company to indemnify you of any expenses you would owe to others in the event of an at fault loss.
• Collision Coverage: Repairs your own car after an impact.  A deductible usually applies. Aftermarket equipment may not be covered or may have a specific limit of coverage.  
• Comprehensive Coverage: Covers non-collision losses like weather, fire, or theft.  Mechanical Failure is not usually part of this coverage, but the damage caused by the mechanical failure usually is. (Example: Your radiator fails and your  engine compartment catches fire - the radiator would not be covered, but the rest of the damage would be.)
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM): Protects you if the other driver doesn’t have enough coverage - or any coverage at all.  Under this coverage, your insurer is responsible for any expenses another party would owe for in a not at fault accident. If you choose not to purchase this coverage, you must sign a rejection waiver.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses immediately, regardless of fault.  There may be a choice of different amounts as well (usually $10k or $35k). There are some surprising benefits to PIP coverage that are worth reading through.  For example - it covers you as a pedestrian too!  Like UM, you must also sign a specific rejection if you choose not to purchase this coverage.
• Rental, Towing, and Gap Coverage: Optional but often valuable add-ons.  Rental is often very minimal in additional premium and worth serious consideration in the event of an accident.
  Each coverage has different limits, so it’s worth checking if yours meet current repair and medical costs.

A First-Party Claim is filed under your own policy for your damages — for example, using your collision coverage after an accident.  With first party coverage there is more insurer legal obligation because a formal contract for coverage exists between you and them.

A Third-Party Claim is filed against the at-fault driver’s insurer.  There are laws and regulation setting ethical expectations for the handling of third-party claims.

The difference matters because first-party claims are governed by your policy’s contract, while third-party claims are governed by Washington’s fair-claims laws (WAC 284-30).
If liability is in dispute or you’re unsure which claim type benefits you most, a Public Adjuster can help you weigh both options. 

Your auto policy is a legal contract between you and your insurance company. It’s divided into several key sections, each explaining a different part of how your coverage works:

1. Declarations Page (“Dec Page”)
   This is the summary sheet — it lists your vehicles, policy period, coverages, limits, deductibles, and endorsements. It tells you what you’re insured for, but not how that coverage applies.
2. Insuring Agreement
   This section outlines the insurer’s promise to pay — it defines what events are covered, who is insured, and the basic duties both sides have under the contract. It’s essentially the foundation of your policy.
3. Definitions
   Every key word used in the policy (like “collision,” “accident,” “covered auto,” or “replacement parts”) is defined here and will be in bold print throughout the policy. These definitions matter — insurers rely on them when deciding whether a claim fits within coverage. 
4. Coverage Parts and Limits
   Each type of coverage (liability, collision, comprehensive, PIP, etc.) has its own subsection that explains what it protects, how much it pays, and under what conditions. The limits listed here are the maximum amounts your insurer will pay for that coverage.
5. Exclusions
   These are the “what’s not covered” clauses. Exclusions can include wear and tear, mechanical breakdown, racing, intentional acts, or commercial use. Always review this section carefully — most coverage denials reference an exclusion.
6. Conditions
   This section describes what you must do to keep your coverage valid — such as promptly reporting accidents, cooperating with inspections, or protecting your vehicle from further damage. It also explains how disputes (like appraisal clauses) are handled.
7. Endorsements and Amendments
   These modify or add to your policy. For example, a “Custom Parts Endorsement” might add extra coverage for aftermarket upgrades, or other changes in your policy.  They need to be reviewed carefully as endorsements always override the standard policy language when attached.
    

Together, these sections form the complete agreement between you and your insurer. Understanding them gives you the upper hand when reviewing claim decisions or questioning a denial.

No. Washington law protects your right to choose any repair shop you trust. Your insurer can suggest preferred shops, but they cannot require you to use them or threaten reduced payment if you don’t.  If you’re told otherwise, ask the insurer to cite the specific policy language — and notify the Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) if the statement feels coercive. 

Making informed choices on who you trust to repair your vehicle is important.  

If you need suggestions, please see our resources page for quality repairs centers in your area.

DRP (Direct Repair Program) or Insurer preferred shops are collision repair centers that have private repair agreements with insurers in exchange for repair referrals.  For this reason, the insurer prefers you repair your vehicle at these locations so they can apply the benefits of the shop repair agreement to your repairs, and reduce the overall cost.  

Some of the items in DRP/Insurer repair agreements can dictate labor price discounts, labor that is performed for free, and other negotiations to reduce the repair amount.  Because DRP repair centers depend entirely on insurer referrals, their interests are usually in preserving the insurer relationship as a top priority, and often the repairs to your vehicle will be dictated by the insurance carrier. 

Independent, or Non-DRP, shops often perform only manufacturer specified  repair procedures that result in safer, higher-quality results, and return your vehicle to, as close as humanly possible, pre-loss condition.  Their primary objective is repair quality and ensuring the safety of their work and do not have agreements with insurers that may compromise manufacturer repair requirements.  Labor rates are set according to repair market standard prices and shop expertise.  

** As a personal opinion, private repair agreements between shops and insurers are highly problematic in terms of transparency and what is being negotiated in the repair for the insurers referral business.  Repair shops are supposed to represent the consumer first and ensure manufacturer compliant, safe work - however a DRP's full dependency on insurers to do business puts the 'consumer-first' commitment in severe conflict. In addition, the insurers often dictate the vehicle repair processes with DRP shops - overwriting experienced repair professional estimates in favor of insurer methods - without repair experience - and sometimes in direct opposition to manufacturer published repair directives. Furthermore, insurers are required to notify their customers of any changes made to the shops estimate - and the repair shop is also required to notify the vehicle owner (if the cost increases by 10% of the original estimate), however there are typically several changes back and forth between the DRP and the insurer during the course of the repair, often with little or no involvement of the vehicle owner.  It is important to be aware of these considerations when selecting the right specialist for your repairs.

Look for a licensed body shop with certified technicians (I-CAR Gold or OEM certification) and a reputation for transparent estimating, and happy customers.
Ask whether they use OEM parts or aftermarket/recycled parts, whether they will work directly with your insurer, and how they handle supplements or changes to the original estimate.

Per  RCW 46.71.031 repair centers are required to post a sign in a prominent place notifying them of their customer rights:

YOU ARE ENTITLED BY LAW TO:

1. A WRITTEN ESTIMATE FOR REPAIRS WHICH WILL COST MORE THAN ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS, UNLESS WAIVED OR ABSENT FACE-TO-FACE CONTACT (SEE ITEM 4 BELOW);
2. RETURN OR INSPECTION OF ALL REPLACED PARTS, IF REQUESTED AT TIME OF REPAIR AUTHORIZATION;
3. AUTHORIZE ORALLY OR IN WRITING ANY REPAIRS WHICH EXCEED THE ESTIMATED TOTAL PRESALES TAX COST BY MORE THAN TEN PERCENT;
4. AUTHORIZE ANY REPAIRS ORALLY OR IN WRITING IF YOUR VEHICLE IS LEFT WITH THE REPAIR FACILITY WITHOUT FACE-TO-FACE CONTACT BETWEEN YOU AND THE REPAIR FACILITY PERSONNEL.

IF YOU HAVE AUTHORIZED A REPAIR IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ABOVE4 INFORMATION YOU ARE REQUIRED TO PAY FOR THE COSTS OF THE REPAIR PRIOR TO TAKING THE VEHICLE FROM THE PREMISES.

If you don't see this sign in the lobby when you walk in - you may want to walk right back out. 

Ultimately, choose the shop that prioritizes safety, accuracy, and transparency - not speed or insurer preference. A Public Adjuster can help review your estimates before you commit. 

No, but it’s often the first step in the insurer’s process, and can be problematic. 

Photo-based estimates are convenient but typically miss obvious, and hidden, damage due to general damage inexperience of the photographer or quality of the photos sent in.

Insurers often say that if supplemental damage is later discovered during the repair, your repairer or appraiser can reopen the claim for additional payment.  This explanation may sound reasonable, however the insurance company owes the vehicle owner for their financial loss (damage/cost to repair) only, regardless if the owner decides to repair the vehicle or not.  Withholding funds in an attempt to coerce repair, or reduce a claim payment for established loss is in violation of Washington state regulation. Still his is a frequent tactic used during insurer initial estimates (especially photo estimates) in the event that the customer decides not to repair.   

You  have the right to request an in-person inspection or get your own independent estimate. 

If the vehicle is drivable, it is often better to bring it to a repair shop for a professional in person estimate.  You may even be able to send them photos as well.  Their daily in person experience of damage inspection will result in a higher quality evaluation.

Claim Complete Auto Appraisals can write or review your estimate for you too.   

No/Not necessarily. 

If you own your vehicle outright (no lease or loan), you may choose not to repair it.  The insurance carrier owes you for your financial loss.  That can mean to cost of what it would be to repair, diminished value, loss of use, expenses incurred that would not have been absent the loss.

Remember - insurance is a financial product - Not a repair warranty.

Sometimes it makes sense to not repair.  Maybe you were planning on buying a new vehicle already.  You could trade your car in as-is, and use the loss payment as a down payment on a new vehicle.

Maybe your being deployed in the military and don't need a car at all - you can use the loss payment however you like - you are not obligated to repair.

However, if you still owe a lender or lease the vehicle, that loss payment will include their name on the check.  You will want to contact them to see what your obligations are.  The lender may require that the car be repaired.  They may also allow you to submit the payment toward paying off your loan.

Keep in mind that any unrepaired damage could impact future claims. Even if you don’t repair, it’s smart to get a full appraisal to document the loss properly. 

That depends on the status of your claim.

Legally, the insurer is required to notify you prior to ending coverage for storage and allow you a reasonable time to respond and release the car - which may include collecting personal items from it. In Washington, regulation defines that reasonable time to be 5 days.

First-Party Claimant: You carrier would owe for any loss related damage immediately - which would include the tow if the vehicle was not safe to drive.  There is usually a limit on the distance, though, which is commonly the nearest repair facility or within a 25 mile radius.  Towing further may incur out of pocket expenses for the cost difference.  If towed to a storage facility - the above paragraph would apply.

Third-Party Claimant: You would initially be responsible for expenses until the other drivers carrier investigated the accident and determined that their driver was at fault for the loss.  The same restrictions would apply for reimbursement of your expenses as noted above.  If it is taking longer for the insurer to complete their work, you must mitigate your damage - do not leave your car at a storage facility.  You may end up being responsible for excess storage, and the tow yard may also sell it if it is there long enough to be classified as abandoned.

Rental coverage differs through each insurer, and depends on if you are a first-party or third-party claimant.  

Rental coverage typically ends when the vehicle repair are completed, or once it is determined to be a total loss.  Some carriers provide grace periods to allow owners to coordinate repair pick ups or make arrangements for alternative transportation.

If you are a first-party claimant, and the rental is being provided specifically under for 'Rental or Transportation' coverage there is likely a time limit and you will want to get clear on what that deadline is with your insurer to maximize your rental use.  If the rental is being provided under your UM (Uninsured Motorist) coverage, your insurer owes to cover the expenses that an at fault insured party would have been responsible for, and there will likely not be a time limit other than repair completion or total loss designation.

Whether you take advantage of a rental vehicle for your claim or not, you may be entitled to additional compensation for the loss of your personal vehicle use - or Loss of Use.  Please reach out to us if you would like a complimentary review to see if any amounts are owed to you.  

Keep all documentation from your repair shop and your insurance conversations - it helps prove that extended rental time was necessary, not excessive, in the event of any disputes. 

Generally, in Washington state, when your car’s repair cost plus its salvage value equals or exceeds its Actual Cash Value (ACV), the insurer declares it a total loss. Other factors other than pure damage can effect this outcome including rental or loss of use expenses.  Ultimately your insurer has the sole discretion in deciding if your car is a total loss.  Each carrier and each state will have different guidelines around this.

You’ll be offered a settlement based on what your car was worth immediately before the accident. There is strict regulation in Washington on how your insurer must calculate their settlement.  Review their offer carefully - and do your own research as well. Your carrier and you, should not be relying on KBB, JD Power, NADA, and similar vendor information, as these sites state specifically they are not to be used for commercial purposes.  In Washington, specifically, they also do not align with the requirements of what needs to be considered in calculating your ACV.  You can request a copy of the valuation report and challenge it if you disagree with the amount they have proposed.

You may also want to request a copy of their salvage quote, and obtain your own salvage quote.  Auction vendors will often provide an online offer for your vehicle, and it is sometimes higher than what the insurer is providing.  Form a financial standpoint, it may be more advantageous to retain your vehicle and sell it to the salvage vendor yourself resulting in an overall higher recovery amount.

*** If you relinquish salvage to the insurance company, always be sure to report the sale to  the Department of Licensing.  This can be done quickly online at minimal expense.  As the registered owner of the vehicle, you are liable for it.  The transfer of ownership isn't always completed by the auction purchaser and you could be responsible for tickets or losses if ownership isn't transferred.  

You have the right to dispute the insurer’s valuation. Start by requesting their full valuation report (not a summary).  This will show the vehicles they used as comparables, the options they applied for your vehicle, and any adjustments for mileage and condition, to name a few.

If you discover any inaccuracies, you can request updates, and it you have evidence that doesn't align with their value you can submit it and they must review and consider what you provided.

As a first-party claimant, If you still can’t agree,  or you simply don't want to delay the settlement any further, you may invoke your policy’s appraisal clause at any time, which allows outside appraisers to determine a fair market value. 

Claim Complete Auto Appraisals can provide you with an appraisal, help guide you through that process, and represent you in the appraisal clause process. 

You can ask your insurer to provide written documentation explaining how they determined the total loss.  Ultimately - it is their decision, but understanding how they arrived at that decision is important to ensure they are acting in good faith.

If repairs are feasible, or if you don't want to repair and your car is safe to drive, you have the choice to retain ownership - you don't have give up the car to the insurance company. If you are considering this option, request a copy of the insurers salvage quote - and get one of your own.  Salvage lots will often provide an online offer and you may be able to reduce the salvage deduction with this evidence.

There are different types of diminished value.  In Washington state, Diminished Value has been established as the difference in value of your vehicle just prior to the loss, and  the value after the repair.

Other types of Diminished Value can be stigma related, repair related, and immediate (prior to repair), 

Diminished Value loss is typically excluded from Comprehensive and Collision coverage, but would be available under Uninsured Motorist PD, and through the at fault insurer under the liability portion of their policy.

Claim Complete Auto Appraisals can complete a comprehensive DV report for you to submit to thoroughly support your claim.

If you the insurer has denied your Diminished Value claim, or you disagree with the amount we can help with that as well.

You may qualify if the accident is not your fault, and your vehicle does not already have multiple other losses, or a prior Salvage Title Brand in its vehicle history. 

Claim Complete can review specific circumstances with you, and  prepare a Diminished Value Appraisal Report to document your loss and support your recovery.

Loss of Use compensates you for the time you were without your vehicle due to the accident — whether or not you rented, or were provided with a replacement.

It’s based on the reasonable daily rental rate for a similar vehicle during the repair or settlement period, and may possibly include expenses incurred as a result of being without your car due to the loss.  Loss of use applies even if you borrowed a car or chose not to rent one. 

Loss of use typically only qualifies for coverage similar to Diminished Value, and if you were not at fault for the accident.  Rental Coverage on a First Part policy will have limitations and may not cover certain aspects of a Loss of Use Claim.

If your own policy includes rental reimbursement, it can help cover costs up front until liability is confirmed.

Even if your rental coverage runs out before repairs are done, you may still recover the balance as loss of use if the delay wasn’t your fault. 

CCA Appraisals can review your specific circumstances with you to determine if you qualify, and if so prepare a comprehensive report to support the value of your claim.

Not always. It depends on the type of claim and who was at fault - and even then, you may not experience an increase specifically related to an accident or claim.

Due to many complex risk factors considered in premium increases it is impossible to predict how a claim might effect your premiums.  Your insurer ill not apply and changes to your premium for a claim until renewal.

In Washington, under WAC 284-30A, Insurers must provide a reasonable explanation of what effected premium changes if you request them at renewal. Beginning in June 2027, they will also be required to provide specific rating factors when requested, such as: 

 - garage location, driving record, miles driving, number of drivers, claim history, discounts and demographic factors. 

Your insurer must give written notice before applying any surcharge or non-renewal based on a claim. 

No. Hiring a Public Adjuster or Appraiser is your legal right under Washington law, and it has no impact on your insurance rate or record.

In fact, there is also a specific law that prevents discrimination to claimants if they are represented by a Public Adjuster. 

Insurers cannot penalize you for seeking professional help — in fact, these services often lead to fairer settlements that prevent disputes or complaints later. 

Typically the person hiring them are responsible for the payment.

Property, or Homeowners Public Adjusters typically work on a contingency basis, meaning their fee is a small percentage of what they recover for you.

Appraisers are usually paid a flat fee by the party who hires them.

If an appraisal clause is invoked, each side pays its own appraiser, and the two select a neutral umpire who's cost is split by each party. This process is still far less expensive than taking legal action. 

Since Claim Complete Auto Appraisals provides both services we offer multiple fee agreements.  There is a flat fee for appraisals, and the option of hourly, or contingency basis for Public Adjusting services.  Please see our 'Additional Service' page for details.

If you file under your own policy first (a first-party claim), your deductible applies until your insurer is reimbursed by the at-fault party’s carrier, or the other carrier accepts fault for the accident. 

If the other party's carrier accepts fault after your deductible is paid, the other insurer may send a reimbursement to you, or your carrier may include recovery of your deductible in their subrogation demand to the other carrier.  Once reimbursement is received, your insurer must refund your deductible before applying the funds to any other portion of recovery for their claim.

You can also choose to file directly through the at-fault insurer to avoid paying it upfront, but that may delay repairs while liability is reviewed. 

Most policies allow insurers to specify non-OEM parts if they’re of the same 'fit, form, and function'.  There can be arguments made around this, and Claim Complete Auto Appraisals can assist you with that if you like.  

Manufacturer parts requirements should be observed at all times, and special consideration should be given to safety items, and driver assist components.

In any event, you are the owner of the vehicle, and you have the right to choose what parts are used in your repair.  Sometimes, this may require paying out of pocket for the cost difference.  Your chosen repair facility should be consulting you on the repair and the parts used prior to installing them on your vehicle.

Ask your repair shop to document any part that doesn’t meet OEM standards and submit a supplement. Some policies also offer OEM Parts Endorsements for newer vehicles — worth asking about at renewal time.