How to Review a Total Loss Offer in Maryland
Before accepting a total loss settlement, check the valuation behind it. A missing equipment package, incorrect mileage or unsupported condition deduction can change the result. A useful counteroffer starts with specific errors and evidence of what a comparable vehicle is worth.
The Maryland Insurance Administration explains that a total loss offer reflects the vehicle’s actual cash value immediately before the loss. This guide walks through the documents to request, the details to check and the point at which an independent appraisal may help.
Get the complete valuation
Ask the adjuster for the full valuation report and an itemized settlement breakdown. You need enough information to follow the calculation from the vehicle’s value to the proposed payment.
Maryland’s settlement rules let you request the offer, valuation method, detailed calculation including options, deductions and condition inspection guidelines in writing. The insurer must respond to that request within seven business days.
Keep the vehicle value separate from taxes, fees, any applicable deductible and any salvage deduction if you retain the vehicle. Ask for an explanation of each line you cannot reconcile. Track the lender payoff separately so you can see how it affects the amount available to you.
Check how your vehicle is described
Compare the report with your records. Start with this checklist:
- VIN, model year, make, model and trim
- Engine, transmission, drivetrain and body style
- Mileage at the time of the loss
- Factory packages and major options
- Condition immediately before the damage occurred
Use a window sticker, purchase documents, equipment records and dated photos to support corrections. An odometer photo or recent service record can help resolve a mileage error.
Review each condition rating and deduction. If the report describes worn upholstery or prior body damage, ask what inspection evidence supports that description. Pre-loss photos may show something different. Service receipts can help establish upkeep, but do not assume every dollar spent on maintenance adds a dollar to market value.
Look closely at the comparable vehicles
Review the vehicles used in the report before gathering your own. Do they match your trim and equipment? Is the mileage recorded correctly? Can you identify the seller and verify the listing details? Ask how differences were adjusted and how those adjustments affected the final value.
Maryland defines a substantially similar vehicle using make, model, year, major options, condition and mileage. The mileage range is the greater of 4,000 miles or 10 percent of your vehicle’s mileage, with exceptions for limited-production or specialty vehicles and those more than 10 model years old at the time of the loss. Review the complete definition when evaluating the insurer’s comparisons.
For your own research, prioritize close matches available in your area. Save the entire advertisement as a PDF or screenshot, including the date, VIN, mileage, equipment, asking price and seller location. A link alone may disappear.
Asking prices are useful evidence, but a collection of the highest-priced listings is not a supported valuation. Identify material differences, including accident history or title status, and explain why each listing is relevant.
Send a focused written counteroffer
Organize your response around what needs correcting. Identify the report page, describe the error and attach the supporting record. For example, a missing factory package is easier to review when the equipment documentation is attached and clearly labeled.
State the vehicle value you are requesting and explain how your evidence supports it. Keep that figure distinct from the final payment calculation. Include relevant dealer quotations or advertisements and ask for a revised valuation or a written explanation addressing the disputed items.
Maryland’s counteroffer rule requires a written explanation within five business days if the insurer rejects a qualifying counteroffer. Keep copies of what you sent, when you sent it and the response.
Decide whether an independent appraisal is worthwhile
Consider an independent appraisal when the disagreement remains material after factual corrections, the vehicle is unusual or the insurer’s comparisons are difficult to evaluate. Discuss the evidence, fee and scope before proceeding.
An appraisal provides a supported opinion of value. It does not guarantee a higher settlement. If you are considering a formal appraisal process under your own policy, check the policy’s terms, requirements and costs first.
Ryckman Appraisals provides total loss appraisals with limited initial counteroffer guidance. Have your valuation report, settlement offer and vehicle records ready when you contact us. Call 240-334-7570 or review our total loss appraisal service to discuss the next step.