Damage & Loss

Damage & Loss Appraisals for Fine Art & Antiques

Accidents happen, disasters strike, and unfortunate events can damage or destroy valuable art and antiques. Whether due to fire, theft, flood, earthquake, or accidental damage, properly documenting your collection is essential for insurance claims, restoration, and financial recovery.

Since 1975, Robert Levy of ARTXPRT – The Beverly Hills Appraisal Company has provided damage and loss appraisals to collectors, homeowners, estates, and insurance professionals throughout Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Palm Springs, Orange County, and San Diego. Our certified appraisers deliver detailed, USPAP-compliant reports that support claims, restorations, and legal proceedings with precision and authority.

Why Damage & Loss Appraisals Are Essential

When valuable artwork or antiques are damaged, determining accurate loss value is critical. An official appraisal helps:

Establish insurance claim amounts
Provide documentation for restoration or repair costs
Determine replacement or fair market value after loss
Support estate, trust, or financial reporting
Protect your legal and financial interests

Without a professional damage appraisal, insurance claims may be delayed, underpaid, or disputed. ARTXPRT ensures your claim is supported with verifiable, defensible valuations.

What Is a Damage & Loss Appraisal?

A damage or loss appraisal evaluates the impact of an event on your fine art or antiques and provides an updated value, whether for repair, replacement, or settlement purposes.

Key aspects of our appraisal reports include:

Pre-loss value (fair market value prior to damage)
Post-loss or repair value
Detailed condition reports
High-resolution photography documenting damage
Market analysis and restoration cost estimates
Insurance claim support and report certification

These appraisals are designed to withstand scrutiny by insurers, legal professionals, and fiduciaries.

Common Scenarios for Damage & Loss Appraisals

Fire or Smoke Damage: Evaluating the loss in art, antiques, and collectibles affected by fire or smoke.
Theft or Missing Items: Establishing replacement or market value for stolen property.
Flood or Water Damage: Determining depreciation, repair needs, and replacement value after water exposure.
Earthquake or Natural Disasters: Documenting loss and providing evidence for claims.
Accidental Damage: Assessing scratches, breakage, or other harm from handling or transport.

In every scenario, ARTXPRT provides accurate, defensible valuations backed by decades of experience and detailed market knowledge.

Our Damage & Loss Appraisal Process

Initial Consultation
We review the nature of the incident, type of property affected, insurance coverage, and client goals to establish the appraisal scope.
On-Site Inspection
A certified appraiser examines the damaged items, noting original condition, current damage, provenance, and materials affected.
Documentation & Photography
High-resolution photos and written descriptions record the pre- and post-damage condition of each piece.
Market & Restoration Analysis
Comparable sales and market data are analyzed to establish pre-loss values, and estimated restoration costs are calculated where applicable.
Report Preparation & Certification
A detailed, USPAP-compliant report is created, including itemized valuations, photographs, condition assessment, and insurance claim guidance.
Support for Claims & Restoration
We remain available to answer insurer questions, provide clarification, or participate in dispute resolution if needed.

Who Needs Damage & Loss Appraisals

Private collectors affected by damage or theft
Homeowners with fine art or antiques in their residences
Corporate clients managing art collections or decorative assets
Insurance professionals assessing claims and settlements
Fiduciaries, estate executors, and trustees handling damaged property

By providing precise, defensible appraisals, ARTXPRT ensures that both owners and insurers have clear, reliable documentation to facilitate settlements.

Why Choose ARTXPRT for Damage & Loss Appraisals

Decades of Experience
Since 1975, ARTXPRT has helped clients navigate complex damage and insurance scenarios with professionalism and accuracy.

USPAP-Compliant Reports
All appraisals adhere to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, ensuring credibility and defensibility.

Independent & Objective
We do not buy, sell, or broker art, so every valuation remains unbiased and trustworthy.

Detailed & Comprehensive Reporting
Our reports provide full documentation, including condition assessments, pre- and post-loss values, and market justification.

Insurance-Ready Documentation
Reports are accepted by insurance companies, legal professionals, and fiduciaries to expedite claims and restore assets efficiently.

How ARTXPRT Supports Insurance and Financial Professionals

Insurance adjusters, claims specialists, and financial advisors rely on ARTXPRT’s appraisals for:

Claim settlement negotiations
Determining proper coverage or payout
Documenting condition for restoration or repair
Expert consultation in disputes or litigation

By providing thorough, professional documentation, ARTXPRT reduces uncertainty, expedites claims, and protects client interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you appraise items that have been completely destroyed?
Yes. We establish pre-loss fair market value using prior records, photographs, and comparable sales.

Can ARTXPRT provide replacement cost estimates?
Yes. We provide detailed replacement cost analysis for insurance purposes, restoration, or claim settlement.

How long does the appraisal process take?
Typical damage and loss appraisals are completed within 2–4 weeks, depending on the scope and extent of the damage.

Are your reports accepted by all major insurance companies?
Yes. Our USPAP-compliant, professionally prepared reports are widely recognized and accepted.

Can you assist with disputes or claims denials?
Yes. We offer clarifications, supplemental documentation, and expert witness services if needed to support claim resolution.

Protect Your Collection After Damage

Accidents and disasters are unexpected, but the path to recovery is clear with accurate documentation. A professional damage and loss appraisal from ARTXPRT ensures that your fine art and antiques are properly valued, supported by evidence, and ready for insurance claims or restoration planning.

Since 1975, Robert Levy at ARTXPRT – The Beverly Hills Appraisal Company has been Southern California’s trusted partner for damage and loss appraisals, providing peace of mind and expert guidance when it matters most.

Schedule Your Damage & Loss Appraisal

Contact Robert Levy at ARTXPRT – The Beverly Hills Appraisal Company today to schedule a confidential consultation or appraisal for damaged or lost art and antiques. Protect your collection, expedite your claim, and ensure your assets are accurately valued.