In the context of insurance, it refers to the remaining value of property after a loss. Following a claim payout, the insurer may take ownership of the damaged or recovered goods. For example, after a car accident deemed a total loss, the insurance company might take possession of the vehicle to recover some of the claim cost through its resale or dismantling for parts.
This practice benefits both the insurer and, indirectly, the insured. The insurer can reduce financial losses by recouping some value from damaged property. This, in turn, can help keep insurance premiums more stable. Historically, this principle allowed insurers to manage risk effectively, especially in maritime insurance, where shipwrecks often yielded valuable recoverable cargo.
