Accident appraisal
After an accident in Hamburg — we work for you, not the insurer.
If another driver caused the accident, the at-fault insurer pays for our independent appraisal under § 249 BGB. We document the damage, calculate diminished value and repair cost, and stand by you in the negotiation.
Call +49 176 22152891
Your rights after an accident
German law (§ 249 BGB) gives the injured party the right to choose their own independent appraiser. You are not obliged to use the appraiser the at-fault driver's insurer suggests — their reports statistically come in lower because they are paid by the same insurer. An independent expert protects your claim.
What an accident appraisal covers
- Repair cost calculation — itemised parts, labour and paint, in line with manufacturer pricing.
- Diminished value (Wertminderung) — the loss in market value even after a perfect repair, especially relevant for younger or higher-value cars.
- Total loss assessment — replacement value vs. residual value, with regional market evidence.
- Photo documentation — high-resolution images of every relevant damage point, suitable for court.
- Repair duration & hire car — basis for your claim against the at-fault insurer.
When the at-fault insurer pays
If you are clearly the injured party, the at-fault insurer covers our fee — you pay nothing out of pocket. In disputed-fault cases or self-caused damage we discuss cost-coverage options before we start. Comprehensive insurance (Vollkasko) typically covers self-caused appraisals, sometimes minus a deductible.
Process
- 1. You call us — we're reachable 24/7 at +49 176 22152891.
- 2. We meet on-site within 60 minutes in Hamburg or up to 1 h drive — workshop, your driveway, or scene of the accident.
- 3. Photo documentation, measurement, vehicle history check.
- 4. Written report ready in 2–3 business days, sent to you, your lawyer and the insurer.