Auto damage appraisal?

Question

I am a Bodyman but I want to do auto damage appraisal for a major

insurance company. how do I get there from here?

Answer 1

Well, good luck on that.  You can do two different things:  1.  get hired as a company employee (better have a bachelor's degree for that) and then pass the state appraiser exam, or 2. pass the state appraiser exam to get your license, and try to free lance with one of the larger independent adjusting firms.  

It's going to be really hard, either way, as you'll ALSO have to be able to ADJUST the claims.

Answer 2

First you have to be able to write estimates using Pathways or Mitchell. It is NOT required to have bachelors degree as the person above me said. you can apply National Appraisers Institute and get your certificate in 2 weeks from Fresno or you need to have a lot of experience in order to work for the insurance company. Some companies like Infiniti, and Mercury train you and hire you, but the pay is lower than other companies.

1) Get familiar with Pathways and Mitchell estimating program.

2) Take classes or find a someone who will teach you all the basics.

3) Gain some experience.

4) Apply for independent appraiser position.

5) Apply to insurance company that you like.

6) Enjoy your life with a secured job, nothing happens overnight.

Answer 3

A friend of mine owns 3 insurance offices with a major company(hint..two hands)he once told me that he contracts body shops for a preset price for the work they perform,if you decide to go that route and they are your exclusive client,you may be locked into what you can make onjobs they give you. Good luck.