Auto Insurance Claims: Collector Vehicle Appraisals, vehicle appraisals, car appraisals

Question
Richard,

I have just moved here to Florida from New York and am interested in properly setting up myself to perform collector car appraisals.  

For over 30 years I have written appraisals for all major insurance groups including those who handle the collector cars only.  I have never been involved with damage estimating as I worked for a restoration facility and the appraisal portion was our main lead for outside sales for those types of vehicles.  When I was asked who in the area would work on these types of vehicles I would be able to explain our services and hopefully create a new customer.

I called the State of Florida and was told that I needed a license to write these but as I read your notes to others it seems as if I do not need to.  I am I correct in thinking this?

Thank you in advance of your response,

Jim

Answer
Hi Jim,

I'm sorry for the late response.

It is my position that a real value appraiser is not required to have a license in the state of Florida. I do not believe that a damage appraiser is required ot have a licence either. If you will be negotiating the settlements, explaining coverage or providing any other direct negotiations either for and insurance company or for the vehicle owner, then you need a license. But, a value appraiser is not required to have a licence. Otherwise every car salesman that places a value on a car would have to be licensed.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh