German-law context: This page relates to German law and German automotive claims practice. It provides operational information, not individual legal advice.
Ask, photograph, map and describe prior damage before dismantling wherever possible. Uncertainty should be stated rather than concealed.
Customer history
Record known prior accidents, repairs, unrepaired damage and ownership history. The customer’s statement should be distinguished from verified records.
Technical separation
Photographs and repair findings should identify overlap between old and new damage zones. Paint depth, corrosion, deformation and previous repair traces may be relevant.
Estimate and assessment
Only the current event-related repair scope should be attributed to the new claim. Ambiguous overlap should be escalated to the assessor.
Commercial protection
Weak separation can lead to broad reductions, customer complaints and unpaid work. A standard prior-damage checklist protects the evidence chain.
Frequently asked questions
Must every prior repair be proven by invoice?
Evidence quality varies. The available information and uncertainty should be recorded transparently.
Can old and new damage be in the same area?
Yes, which makes technical separation and professional assessment especially important.
Who decides legal causation?
The technical facts support the assessment; legal causation and entitlement remain legal questions.
When should photos be taken?
Before dismantling and again when hidden overlap becomes visible.
Frank Roll, MSc, MBA
Automotive claims management specialist working at the interface between dealerships, insurers, automotive damage assessors and legal professionals since 1998. Author of Schadenmanagement im Autohaus and developer of the R-SOS management consulting system.
Last reviewed: July 2026 · The specialist book is currently available in German.