Professional Standards
Appraiser Independence Policy
American Classic Appraisals provides appraisals, pre-purchase inspections, and insurance claim negotiation. This policy explains how we maintain the integrity of every appraisal conclusion regardless of what other services a client may also engage.
All appraisal reports are prepared in substantial conformity with USPAP · ASCAA-CERT-4246
Our Independence Commitments
Independent Appraisal Conclusions
Every appraisal conclusion is formed solely on the basis of market evidence, vehicle condition, and the appraiser's professional judgment. No appraisal conclusion is influenced by the intended use of the report, the identity of the client, or any desired outcome. Compensation for appraisal services is a flat fee established before the engagement begins — it is never contingent on the appraised value, the outcome of a claim, the approval of a loan, or any other result.
Conflict-of-Interest Disclosure
If any circumstance exists that could reasonably be perceived as a conflict of interest — including a prior relationship with the vehicle, the seller, the buyer, or any party to a transaction — that circumstance will be disclosed to the client in writing before the engagement proceeds. The appraiser will decline the assignment if the conflict cannot be adequately mitigated through disclosure.
No Undisclosed Financial Interest
American Classic Appraisals will not provide an appraisal on any vehicle in which the company or its principals hold an undisclosed financial interest. This includes vehicles in which any principal has an ownership stake or a commission arrangement. Any such interest, if present, will be disclosed in full before the appraisal is accepted.
Separation of Appraisal and Insurance Negotiation
Our insurance negotiation service uses a certified appraisal as a foundational document in the dispute process. The appraisal itself is prepared independently, before any negotiation strategy is developed, and its conclusions are not adjusted to support a negotiating position. The appraiser's role is to determine fair market value; the negotiation service then uses that documented value to advocate on the client's behalf with the carrier. These are distinct engagements with distinct deliverables.
The Bottom Line
When you hire American Classic Appraisals for an appraisal, you receive an independent professional opinion of value — not a number engineered to support a transaction, a claim, or any other outcome. Our fee is fixed before we begin. Our conclusion belongs to the evidence.
Questions about this policy? Contact us at inquiries@americanclassicappraisals.com or call (270) 790-7534.
Effective date: September 19, 2026 · American Classic Appraisals · Shawn Owens, ASCAA-CERT-4246