Get clear answers to the most common questions Tacoma drivers ask about total loss claims, appraisal rights, and how our process works.
Yes. If you received a low total loss offer from your insurer in Tacoma, you have the right to demand an independent appraisal under Washington State insurance law. Every policy covering physical damage must include an appraisal clause giving you the right to demand an independent appraisal when you disagree with the insurer’s valuation. You do not have to accept the first offer. Contact us before signing any release or accepting any payment.
Most Tacoma total loss disputes are resolved within one to three weeks from when we begin the process. Once we submit our independent appraisal, the insurer’s appraiser typically responds within a few days. An umpire is rarely needed and only used when the two appraisers cannot reach agreement on their own.
Yes. Yes. Washington State insurance regulations require that total loss settlements for Tacoma drivers include applicable sales tax on a comparable replacement vehicle, plus title and transfer fees on a comparable replacement vehicle plus title and transfer fees. Many initial offers omit these amounts. We verify all three components — ACV, sales tax, and title fees — are included in every settlement we negotiate.
Our fee for Tacoma clients is a flat $550 — no percentage of your settlement, no hidden charges. This includes the complete USPAP-compliant appraisal, full representation through the appraisal clause process, all communication with the insurer’s appraiser, and umpire coordination if needed. If your settlement doesn’t increase by at least $550, we refund our fee in full.
There is no rigid statutory deadline, but Tacoma drivers should act before signing any release or accepting any settlement payment. Do not sign or cash any check labeled as full and final settlement before contacting us. Once you accept payment it may waive your right to dispute. Call us as soon as you receive the insurer’s offer.
The most important document is your insurer’s total loss valuation report — the CCC One or Mitchell report your adjuster provided. You’ll also need your policy number and adjuster’s contact info. Records of upgrades or recent repairs are helpful. We guide every Tacoma client through anything else after the free claim review.
If the two appraisers cannot reach an agreed value, they jointly select a neutral umpire whose decision is binding on both parties. We coordinate the entire umpire process for Tacoma clients — it is included in the flat $550 fee with no additional charge to you.
