What is a damage report typically referred to in the collision repair industry?

In the collision repair industry, a damage report is most commonly referred to as an appraisal. An appraisal is a formal assessment conducted to evaluate the extent of damage to a vehicle after a collision. This report typically includes a detailed description of the damages, necessary repairs, and an estimate of the costs involved, which is crucial for insurance purposes. The appraisal serves as a critical document that helps insurers determine claims and facilitates communication between all parties involved in the repair process.

While other terms like "physical assessment report," "insurance estimate," or "repair order" may be used in various contexts, they do not specifically encapsulate the idea of a structured and detailed evaluation of damage as an appraisal does. A physical assessment report may suggest a general examination of the vehicle, while an insurance estimate may imply the insurance company's estimation of costs without the comprehensive analysis provided in an appraisal. A repair order is more focused on the details of the repair process itself rather than documenting the damage assessment.