Day in the life
A Day in the Life of an Auto Damage Appraiser
What auto damage appraisers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for an auto damage appraiser?
Review assigned claims. From there, the day usually includes inspect damaged vehicles, photograph damage, and write repair estimates. Full time, with surges after storms.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for an auto damage appraiser working full time.
- Review assigned claims.
- Inspect a car at a body shop.
- Photograph hail damage.
- Write estimates in the car.
- Inspect a possible total loss.
- Negotiate a supplement.
- Upload reports.
Where auto damage appraisers work
Appraisers work in the field at body shops and tow yards, and from home offices or desk review centers.
Hours and schedule
Full time, with surges after storms.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Inspect damaged vehicles
- Photograph damage
- Write repair estimates
- Negotiate with body shops
- Determine total losses
- Review supplements
- Document claims
Tools you’ll use every day
- CCC ONE
- Mitchell estimating
- Audatex
- Digital camera
- Tablet
- Paint thickness gauge
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Independent field work
- Good pay without a degree
- Car knowledge pays
- Storm deployment opportunities
What’s hard
- Declining employment
- Driving all day
- Weather exposure
- Disputes with shops
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I know cars
- I like working on my own
- I’m detail-oriented
- I don’t mind driving
- I can negotiate fairly
- I want good pay without a degree
Not sure? Take the free Auto Damage Appraiser fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Stay alert at tow yards
- Use caution near lifts
- Watch for sharp metal and glass
- Drive safely