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My car has been written off - can I challenge the valuation I've been given?

I have recently had my 2015 BMW 1 Series deemed a total loss and have had an offer made to me by the insurance company which I think is far below what it should be due to the spec on it. Do I just accept it?

Asked on 16 December 2021 by Phil Todd

Answered by Dan Powell
You can challenge the valuation your insurer has placed on your vehicle.

As a general rule, I'd always recommend rejecting the first offer. But you'll need to provide evidence, which backs up your argument that the insurer has placed an unrealistic value on your car. I would send examples of similar cars for sale. Our free online evaluation tool may also assist: www.honestjohn.co.uk/used-prices/

If all of that fails, you can employ an independent assessor to value your car. You will need to pay for this out of your own pocket and there is no guarantee of a positive outcome. The assessor's decision will be final, which means you will not be able to challenge it.
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