SCA Claim Services, originally founded in 1996 as Southern California Appraisal Company by Tim and Paula Davis, has evolved into a premier provider of vehicle and property damage appraisal services in the United States.

Headquartered in Burbank, California, SCA began franchising in 2007, with its first franchise established in Detroit, Michigan.

Today, the company boasts nearly 150 franchise territories nationwide, supported by over 700 appraisers across all 50 states.

SCA franchises specialize in delivering accurate and timely appraisals for automobiles, specialty vehicles, heavy equipment, and property claims.

Training

SCA Appraisal Services, through SCA Franchising Corporation, offers a structured yet concise training program for new franchisees. Here is a breakdown of the training components:

1. Initial Training Program: This is a required pre-opening training that includes approximately 6 to 10 hours of classroom instruction. It is held at one of three potential locations—Burbank, CA; Bayville, NY; or Richardson, TX—based on the franchisee’s proximity, though the franchisor may opt to deliver the training virtually.
2. Welcome and Introduction: This module consists of 1 hour of classroom instruction aimed at orienting new franchisees with the company and its expectations.
3. Operations and Software: Covering 2 to 3 hours, this portion of the training focuses on operational procedures and the use of proprietary software, a critical part of running the appraisal business.
4. Customer Service and Marketing: This section includes 1 to 2 hours dedicated to customer interaction and local marketing strategies, which are vital to maintaining service quality and attracting clients.
5. Service Level Standards: Also lasting 1 to 2 hours, this component teaches franchisees about the performance benchmarks and expectations they must meet.

Territory Protection

SCA Appraisal Services, through SCA Franchising Corporation, does not grant exclusive territory rights to its franchisees. Each franchisee is assigned a “Service Area,” which is primarily a geographic zone of operational focus, but this area is not protected from competition.

Franchisees may face competition from other SCA franchisees, company-owned locations, or independent appraisers if SCA deems the franchisee is not meeting service standards like turnaround times.

The franchisor reserves the right to adjust the Service Area during the term or upon renewal, including enlarging it to accommodate National Accounts. Additionally, SCA can reassign part or all of a franchisee’s area if performance is deemed inadequate.