Who pays for the vehicle report?
In an accident that wasn't your fault, the other party's insurer pays. As an injured party, you have the free choice of expert (§ 249 BGB) — the cost of an independent report is borne by the other party's liability insurer, not you. We explain in detail here how cost coverage works in other cases.
Cost coverage at a glance
Four typical case scenarios
Accident not your fault
Other party's liability insurer
You have the free choice of expert (§ 249 BGB). The cost of an independent damage report is fully borne by the other party's insurer — you only front the cost in exceptional cases.
Partial fault
Proportional coverage
If partial liability is established, the insurers involved share the costs according to the fault ratio. We explain the remaining share to you transparently in advance.
Accident that was your fault
Your own comprehensive insurance or self-paid
Without liability on the other side, your comprehensive insurance may cover the cost, depending on your policy. We tell you the cost upfront so you can decide.
Costs of other services
Transparent fixed-price offer
For valuation reports and other services — e.g. purchase, sale, inheritance or divorce — we quote a clearly calculated fixed price before you commission us.
Legal basis
§ 249 BGB & the free choice of expert
Under § 249 BGB, as an injured party you are entitled to be restored to the state that would exist without the damaging event — this also includes an assessment by an expert of your choice. The other party's insurer may not dictate an expert to you.
- You freely choose the expert
- Where liability is clear, the other party's insurer bears the cost
- The report serves as the basis for full compensation
Still unsure?
We'll clarify your cost question in advance
Tell us briefly about your situation — we'll tell you who bears the cost in your case before you decide.
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