How much does a diminished value appraisal cost?
Michael Gray
Updated on April 06, 2026
Dealing With Diminished Value Appraisers Most charge anywhere from $100 to $200 dollars and the caliber of report they provide varies wildly. It is the wild wild west out there and you don’t know how the appraiser is coming up with their figure OR whether you are getting your money’s worth.
How do you request diminished value?
How to File a Diminished Value Claim
- Determine who was at fault. Insurance companies determine who caused the accident based on state laws and the details of the accident.
- Check state laws.
- Check the insurer’s rules.
- Gather your documents.
- Find your car’s diminished value.
- File the claim.
- Wait for a response.
How much is a diminished value claim?
A typical diminished value is around $2,000.00. Most insurance companies will offer you about $300.00 for this much-diminished value using their 17C FORMULA. What you can do to get a claim!
How do you negotiate a diminished value claim?
How to negotiate a diminished value claim
- Proceed with caution if you caused the accident.
- Find the diminished value of your car.
- File a diminished value claim with your insurer and ask for compensation.
- Contact your state insurance commissioner or hire an attorney if all else fails.
How long does it take to settle a diminished value claim?
two to six weeks
Most diminished value claims will take anywhere from two to six weeks to settle. Some claims will settle even quicker. The more you follow up with the insurance company, the quicker the process will go.
Can you get diminished value twice?
Q8: Can I Claim Diminished Value Twice? YES. Depending on your vehicle’s pre-accident value, some minor accidents may not consume the entirety of the loss range. In other words, every car has a maximum amount of value drop, this can be anywhere from 5 to 25% of the pre-accident value.
Can I sue for diminished value?
An individual in California can bring a claim for personal injuries or property damage, including diminished value, for up to $10,000 (C.C.P. § 116.221). If you win your case, you’re entitled to reimbursement of the costs of the action, including the costs of serving the defendant (C.C.P.
How long do I have to claim diminished value?
3 years
The statute of limitation on diminished value claims in California is 3 years, and California does have uninsured motorist coverage for diminished value. You can’t submit a California diminished value claim if you were the at-fault party in an accident, or if the damage was caused by something other than a collision.
How do I calculate diminished value of my car?
Example of a diminished value calculation If the NADA value for your vehicle is $20,000, calculate the base loss of value by using a 10% cap. Simply multiply $20,000 by 10%. The result is $2,000, which represents the highest amount a car insurer will pay for a diminished value claim under formula 17c.
