Model a fire claim payout with realistic adjustments. See caps, deductions, and reimbursements in minutes. Make smarter decisions with a clear settlement estimate.
| Scenario | ACV | Coverage Limit | Repair Estimate | Deductible | Rental (Rate×Days) | Towing | Outcome | Estimated Net Payout |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Repairable | $18,000 | $20,000 | $7,200 | $500 | $40×10 | $450 | Repairable (Likely) | $7,? (varies by tax/limits) |
| Total loss | $12,500 | $12,500 | $10,500 | $1,000 | $45×12 | $600 | Total Loss (Likely) | $11,? (depends on salvage, fees) |
| High deductible | $9,800 | $10,000 | $4,900 | $2,000 | $30×7 | $300 | Repairable (Likely) | $3,? (deductible reduces payout) |
Fire losses often combine repair invoices, storage days, and value disputes. Start with the coverage limit, because every later line item is capped by that maximum. ACV matters next: the calculator uses it for the total loss threshold and for the payout ceiling in a total loss. Reliable ACV sources include dealer listings, valuation reports, and recent local sales. For example, a $20,000 limit with $18,000 ACV caps the base settlement at $18,000 before fees and deductions apply.
To decide repairable versus total loss, the model compares the repair base plus estimated tax and reimbursements against a threshold percentage of ACV. A 75% threshold means a $18,000 vehicle triggers around $13,500. Severity acts as a safeguard: extensive smoke, wiring, and interior damage frequently push outcomes toward total loss even when estimates seem modest.
Coverage limits also apply to sub-coverages. Rental reimbursement is the daily rate multiplied by days, then capped by a maximum. Towing and storage are capped the same way. Custom equipment is only paid when an aftermarket limit exists; otherwise, it is treated as not covered. These caps explain why two similar fires can produce very different net payouts.
Out-of-pocket costs usually include deductible, any betterment deduction, prior damage deductions, uncovered towing or rental, and salvage retained when an owner keeps the vehicle. Comparative fault can further reduce the check after the deductible. Tracking these items helps you decide whether to repair, accept a total loss, or negotiate specific invoice lines.
Use the CSV export to share inputs and computed results with the repair facility, appraiser, or adjuster. The PDF summary is helpful for settlement discussions because it shows the classification, the threshold test amounts, and the capped basis. Updating two numbers, such as ACV or rental days, quickly reveals sensitivity and supports documented counteroffers.
Confirm coverage limit, deductible, and any separate rental or towing caps. Use a realistic ACV based on local listings. If repair numbers are preliminary, rerun the calculator after a written shop estimate and documented storage days.
No. It is a planning tool that mirrors common settlement mechanics. Actual payouts depend on policy language, local regulations, approved labor rates, parts sourcing, and the insurer’s valuation and salvage process.
Use your jurisdiction’s guideline if known, commonly 70% to 80% of ACV. If uncertain, test several thresholds to see how sensitive the classification is. When fire damage is widespread, total loss is often more likely.
Keeping salvage means you retain a vehicle with remaining value. Insurers typically deduct that salvage value from the cash settlement. You may also face inspection, title branding, and future repair risks, which the calculator treats as owner responsibility.
Betterment is a wear-and-tear share applied when new parts improve the vehicle beyond its pre-loss condition. Tires, batteries, and some mechanical parts are common examples. Enter a percentage to model the deduction and understand net payout impact.
The calculator multiplies rental rate by days, then caps the reimbursement at your rental maximum. Towing and storage are capped by the towing limit. Any amount above those caps is added to estimated out-of-pocket costs.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.