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When a vehicle is damaged in an accident, even after complete repairs it may sell for less than an otherwise identical, never-damaged vehicle. That loss in market value is called diminished value. In North Dakota you can pursue a diminished value amount from the at-fault driver’s insurer (or from your own insurer if you have certain coverages), but the insurer may evaluate that claim separately from repair costs. The following explains, step-by-step, how to get a reliable diminished value quote and turn that quote into a claim demand.

Step 1 — Confirm you have a diminished value claim

Not every accident will produce meaningful diminished value. Factors that increase the likelihood of a diminished value award include: structural/frame damage, airbag deployment, multiple panels repaired or replaced, high-mileage or older cars with scarce market data, and damage to a classic or high-value vehicle. If the vehicle was totaled, diminished value is usually part of the total-loss calculation rather than a separate quote.

Step 2 — Gather evidence before and after repairs

Document everything. Useful items for a diminished value appraisal include:

• Photos of pre-accident condition (if available), accident damage, and completed repairs;
• Repair estimates, final repair invoices, and receipts for parts used;
• Vehicle identification details: VIN, year, make, model, trim, mileage at time of accident;
• Title history and any previous damage history (Carfax, AutoCheck or similar reports);
• Comparable vehicle listings and values (Kelley Blue Book, NADA, local market listings).

Step 3 — Choose the right method for a diminished value quote

There are three common approaches to getting a diminished value figure:

• Independent diminished value appraiser: A qualified appraiser prepares a written report showing the vehicle’s pre-loss market value, the post-repair market value, and the lost value with supporting market comparables. This is the most persuasive option for negotiations or litigation.
• Market-comparison method: Collect local comparable vehicle listings and show how the repaired vehicle is priced below similar undamaged vehicles. This can be done by owners or by brokers, but it is weaker without an appraiser’s analysis.
• Insurer’s own valuation: The at-fault insurer may deliver its own diminished value calculation. You can accept, contest, or rebut that number with independent evidence.

Step 4 — Hire a qualified appraiser and request a written report

When you hire an appraiser, ask for a written report that includes:

• Appraiser credentials and methodology;
• Pre-loss market value and sources (e.g., KBB, NADA, local sales);
• Post-repair market value and comparison vehicles;
• Photographs, repair documentation, and how repairs affect marketability;
• The recommended diminished value amount and a clear explanation showing how it was calculated.

Typical turnaround times range from a few days to two weeks depending on the appraiser and the complexity of the case. Fees vary but often run from around $100–$500 depending on the provider and report detail.

Step 5 — Submit the quote and supporting documents to the insurer

Send the appraisal report, repair invoices, photos, and a short demand letter to the at-fault insurer’s claims adjuster. Keep copies of everything and send documents by a trackable method (or email with read receipt). In your demand, state the basis for the amount and request a firm response date for acceptance or denial.

Step 6 — Negotiate or pursue alternative remedies

The insurer may accept the appraisal, offer a lower amount, or deny the claim. Your options if the insurer disagrees:

• Negotiate using the appraisal and comparable market evidence;
• Request appraisal or dispute-resolution methods provided by a policy or state regulations;
• File a complaint with the North Dakota Insurance Department for potential unfair-claims-handling concerns (see resources below);
• Consider small claims court or retaining a lawyer for larger losses if negotiation fails.

How North Dakota resources can help

North Dakota maintains public resources about insurance consumer rights and filing complaints. If you believe an insurer is mishandling a claim, you can contact the North Dakota Insurance Department for guidance or to file a complaint:

North Dakota Century Code (state law index) — use this site to look up statutes that may affect insurance and claims procedures.
North Dakota Insurance Department — consumer resources, complaint forms, and contact information.

Common timeframes and costs

Expect an appraiser’s written quote in 1–14 days. Insurer responses to a well-documented demand can take several weeks. Appraisal fees usually range from about $100–$500. If you hire an attorney, costs will depend on the attorney’s fee structure; for larger diminished-value claims some attorneys take contingency fees, while others charge hourly.

When to consult an attorney

Consider consulting an attorney if:

• The diminished value is potentially large relative to vehicle value;
• The insurer denies responsibility or offers an unreasonably low amount;
• There are complicated issues like title branding, structural damage, or multiple insurers involved.

Helpful Hints

• Start documentation immediately after the accident—photos and records are critical.
• Keep all repair receipts and ask the repair shop to document what parts were replaced and why.
• Use multiple sources to establish pre-loss value (KBB, NADA, local listings) so your appraiser’s conclusions are supported.
• Choose an appraiser who provides market comparables, not only a formula-based number.
• Be polite but persistent with the insurer — a clear, well-documented demand is often effective.
• If the amount is modest, weigh the cost of a paid appraisal versus pursuing the claim directly through negotiation or small-claims court.
• Save all correspondence and send important documents by trackable mail or certified email.