Total Loss Appraisal in South Carolina

South Carolina generally follows a Total Loss Formula (TLF) approach. A vehicle is treated as a total loss when the insurer decides it is not economical to repair because the cost of repairs plus the salvage value approaches or exceeds the vehicle’s Actual Cash Value (ACV) before the crash. You can compare South Carolina with other states here: total loss laws by state.

ACV is your vehicle’s fair market value immediately before the loss. It should be based on comparable vehicles selling in South Carolina markets (for example, Columbia, Charleston, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Rock Hill, Greenville, and surrounding areas), adjusted for year, trim, mileage, options, and condition. For a deeper breakdown of ACV and how it should be calculated, see: Fair Market Value & ACV.

Start by asking for the insurer’s full valuation report (CCC, Mitchell, Audatex, or similar). Review each comparable for: incorrect trim, missing options, wrong mileage, questionable condition ratings, or out-of-area vehicles that don’t reflect South Carolina prices. Many drivers and law firms rely on an independent SnapClaim South Carolina total loss appraisal to support a higher, data-backed value: order a South Carolina total loss appraisal.

South Carolina is effectively a Total Loss Formula state. Instead of a single published percentage (like 70% or 75%), insurers look at whether the repair cost plus salvage value is close to or greater than ACV. When repairs are no longer economical under that formula, the vehicle is treated as a total loss and handled under South Carolina’s salvage title rules.

When an insurer declares a vehicle a total loss in South Carolina, the vehicle is generally treated as salvage. The original title is surrendered and a salvage or similarly branded title is issued. If the vehicle is later repaired and passes required inspections, it may qualify for a rebuilt or branded title before it can be registered and driven again. That brand remains on the title and can affect resale value.

Often, yes. If you choose to retain the salvage, the insurer typically reduces your cash settlement by the vehicle’s estimated salvage value. You keep the damaged vehicle, which will be treated as salvage and must go through South Carolina’s rebuild and inspection process before it can be titled and driven again. A solid valuation helps ensure both the ACV and salvage value are fair: talk to our South Carolina appraisal team.

Many South Carolina total loss settlements include applicable sales tax and certain title and registration fees needed to replace your vehicle, but details can vary by insurer and policy. Always request an itemized breakdown that shows ACV, taxes, fees, and any deductions so you can verify you are being paid correctly.

If your loan payoff is higher than the total loss payment, you have negative equity. You’re typically responsible for that remaining balance unless you purchased GAP insurance or a similar add-on that can cover some or all of the shortfall. Because of this, having a properly supported ACV is critical—it can directly reduce how much you still owe after the claim.

South Carolina law sets specific statutes of limitations for vehicle damage and injury claims. These deadlines can span multiple years, but the exact timeframe depends on your situation and may change if the law is updated. Missing a deadline can affect your rights, so it’s important to consult a South Carolina attorney if timing might be an issue. SnapClaim’s role is to provide a clear, data-driven valuation that your attorney or adjuster can use during negotiations: see how our South Carolina reports are used.

Many auto policies used in South Carolina include an appraisal clause for disputes over vehicle value. Typically, each side hires an appraiser; if they cannot agree, a neutral umpire reviews both positions and helps set the amount. This process usually applies when you’re making a claim under your own policy. A detailed SnapClaim report can support your position if you decide to invoke appraisal: South Carolina total loss appraisals.

SnapClaim covers all of South Carolina—including Columbia, Charleston, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Rock Hill, Greenville, Summerville, and surrounding towns and rural areas. Our reports use hyper-local comparable vehicles so your valuation reflects real South Carolina market conditions, not just national averages. You can start from our South Carolina overview page: SnapClaim South Carolina hub.

Most South Carolina total loss appraisals are completed the same business day after we receive your claim information and supporting documents—often within about an hour. That speed helps you respond quickly to a low offer instead of letting the claim drag on. Get started here: request a South Carolina total loss appraisal.

SnapClaim builds a South Carolina–specific valuation file using verified comparables, mileage and condition adjustments, options, and market corrections for your part of the state. The report explains how ACV should be calculated and highlights where the insurer’s number may be too low, giving adjusters and attorneys a clear basis for pushing for a higher settlement: learn how our fair market value reports work.