What is SecondAppraisal?
SecondAppraisal is a vehicle total-loss appraisal consulting service. When your insurance company declares your vehicle a total loss, their initial offer is often lower than your vehicle's true market value. We research comparable vehicles, build a comprehensive valuation report, and negotiate with your insurer to get you a fair settlement.
How does the process work?
It starts with a simple intake: upload your insurance company's market valuation report (the document they send showing what they think your vehicle is worth), provide your insurance details, and create an account. From there, our team analyzes the report, researches comparable vehicles in your area, prepares a detailed valuation, and negotiates with your insurance company on your behalf. You can track every step from your personal dashboard.
What does it cost?
Your initial consultation is free. If we agree to be your appraiser, our service includes a $199 total-loss valuation report plus up to 2 hours of research and negotiation at $149/hour. We pre-authorize your card after we have reviewed your consultation — there is no upfront payment.
What if you can't increase my settlement?
Our clients receive an average of $3,260 more than their initial insurance offer, and we screen every consultation before accepting it: we only proceed when we are confident we can secure at least $1,000 more than your insurer's offer. In the rare instance we agree to be your appraiser and ultimately cannot deliver that $1,000 minimum, you pay nothing.
What do I need to get started?
To get started you'll need your insurance company's market valuation report (a PDF from providers like CCC ONE, Mitchell WorkCenter, or Audatex Autosource), your insurance information (company name, claim number, and adjuster contact if available), and basic details about your vehicle. You can upload the report during intake or add it later from your dashboard.
Can I start without the valuation report?
Yes. During the intake process you can skip the report upload and create your consultation right away. You'll be able to upload the report later from your dashboard whenever you have it ready.
What types of insurance claims do you handle?
We handle both first-party (your own insurance) and third-party (at-fault carrier) claims. If you're currently working through the at-fault driver's insurance, we can also advise you on whether filing through your own policy — particularly if it includes an appraisal clause — might strengthen your negotiating position.
What is an appraisal clause?
An appraisal clause is a provision found in most US auto insurance policies that allows either you or the insurer to demand an independent appraisal when there's a disagreement over your vehicle's value. Each side selects an appraiser, the appraisers select a neutral umpire, and the resulting valuation is binding on the question of value. Not every policy contains one — we'll help you determine if it applies to your situation.
How do I provide vehicle photos?
From your consultation dashboard, you can upload photos directly through your browser. If it's more convenient, we can also send you a photo upload link via text message or email that lets you snap and submit photos from your phone.
How do I communicate with SecondAppraisal during my consultation?
Your consultation dashboard includes a built-in messaging system where you can send and receive messages from our team. You'll also find a Communications page that shows all your emails, texts, and notifications in one place. We'll notify you whenever there's an update on your consultation.
How long does the process take?
Simple cases settle in 1-2 weeks. Disputed cases typically take 30-60 days. If we need to invoke the appraisal clause, the binding-appraisal process adds another 30-90 days. Your dashboard provides real-time progress tracking through every phase.
Is my information secure?
Yes. We use secure authentication options including Google Sign-In, Apple Sign-In, and email or phone one-time passwords (OTP). All data is transmitted over encrypted connections, and we follow industry best practices for protecting your personal and claim information.
How do I contact support?
You can reach us by email at service@secondappraisal.com or by text message at (385) 218-6712. Please note our phone number is for text messages only — no voice calls.
Are you the same team as KEH Consultants?
Yes. SecondAppraisal Inc is the rebrand of KEH Consultants LLC. Jonathon Thomas — who handled most KEH cases — still personally runs every case at SecondAppraisal. The rebrand reflects our investment in AI-powered comparable research and a modern client portal. Existing KEH clients have their account history carried over automatically.
Will negotiating with my insurance company hurt my rates?
Generally no, when you are not at fault. Insurance rates are set primarily by your driving record and at-fault claim history; negotiating the value of an already-filed claim does not by itself raise your rates. Always verify with your specific insurer, but in our experience this is a non-issue.