Detailed Answer: How to get an appraisal that proves diminished value of a vehicle under Maine law
This guide explains, step by step, how to obtain a professional diminished-value appraisal and use it to pursue payment in Maine. It explains what diminished value means, what evidence an appraiser will collect, how to present the appraisal to an insurer or an at-fault driver, and your next steps if the insurer refuses to pay.
What “diminished value” is
Diminished value is the reduction in a vehicle’s market value after it has been damaged in a crash and repaired. Even when repairs are done correctly, buyers often pay less for a vehicle that has an accident history. Diminished value is a form of property damage and can be claimed from the at-fault driver’s insurer or from your own insurer depending on your coverage and who was at fault.
Step 1 — Decide whose insurer you will claim against
- If another driver caused the crash, you can claim diminished value from that driver’s liability insurer.
- If you were at fault or coverage questions exist, you may explore your own collision or gap coverage—but diminished-value recovery from your own insurer is less common unless you have specific coverage.
Keep records of the police report, names and insurance information of the other driver, and any eyewitness statements.
Step 2 — Preserve evidence and document pre-accident condition
Good documentation makes an appraisal stronger. Collect:
- Photos of the vehicle before and after repair (if pre-accident photos are available, include them).
- All repair invoices showing parts used and labor.
- Estimates from repair shops, and inspection reports.
- A vehicle history report (Carfax, AutoCheck) showing the accident and repairs.
- Odometer reading and maintenance records showing condition before the crash.
Step 3 — Hire a qualified, independent diminished-value appraiser
Choose an appraiser experienced in market-value and diminished-value analysis. Look for appraisers who can:
- Inspect the repaired vehicle in person.
- Provide a written report with photos, market-comparable sales, and a clear method for calculating the diminished value.
- Explain the appraisal in a way an insurer or judge can understand.
Search locally for auto appraisers, appraisal firms, or independent automobile appraisers. Ask for sample diminished-value reports and references. Typical appraisal costs vary—commonly $150–$600 depending on complexity.
Step 4 — What the appraiser will do and include
A reputable diminished-value appraisal usually includes:
- An in-person inspection of the repaired vehicle, including close-up photos of repaired areas and any frame or structural damage.
- An evaluation of repair quality and parts used (OEM vs. aftermarket).
- Market research and comparable vehicle sales (same year, make, model, condition and geographic market).
- A clear explanation of the chosen valuation method (market approach, comparable sales, or loss-of-value analysis) and the numerical calculation that yields a diminished-value amount.
- A written report you can submit to the insurer, with the appraiser’s signature and credentials.
Step 5 — Send the appraisal and supporting documents to the at-fault insurer
Send a demand package to the at-fault driver’s liability carrier. Include:
- The diminished-value appraisal report
- Repair invoices and photos
- Vehicle history report
- A concise demand letter stating the amount of diminished value claimed and a deadline to respond (commonly 14–30 days)
Keep delivery proof (certified mail with return receipt or documented email). Maine insurers must follow fair claims practices; if you see unreasonable delays or denials, you can contact the Maine Bureau of Insurance for guidance or to file a complaint: Maine Bureau of Insurance: Consumer Information. You can also review Maine’s rules on unfair claim settlement practices at: Maine Rev. Stat. tit. 24‑A §2436.
Step 6 — If the insurer denies or offers less than the appraisal
Common next steps:
- Request a written explanation for any denial or low offer and ask the insurer to identify specific reasons supported by evidence.
- Consider getting a second independent appraisal or a rebuttal from another appraiser if you believe the insurer’s valuation is incorrect.
- File a complaint with the Maine Bureau of Insurance if the insurer engages in unfair claim practices: File an insurance complaint.
- If negotiations fail, consider filing a civil claim. For smaller amounts, Maine District Court small claims procedures may be appropriate—check the Maine Judicial Branch website for filing instructions and limits: Maine Courts.
- Consult a lawyer experienced in motor-vehicle/property damage claims if the amount is large or liability is contested.
Practical timeline and costs
Typical timeline:
- Scheduling an appraisal: within a few days to a week.
- Appraisal report: 3–14 days after inspection (depends on appraiser workload and research needed).
- Insurer response: insurers often respond within weeks, but responses can vary—document communications and set a deadline in your demand letter.
Typical costs:
- Appraisal fee: roughly $150–$600 (depends on complexity and region).
- Additional expert opinions or attorney work will increase cost.
When to get a lawyer
Consider consulting an attorney if:
- The insurer refuses to recognize liability or unfairly denies a valid claim.
- The disputed amount is large relative to appraisal costs.
- You need help collecting evidence, preparing a demand, or filing suit.
Relevant Maine resources and laws
- Maine Bureau of Insurance — Consumer resources and complaint filing: https://www.maine.gov/pfr/insurance/consumer/index.shtml
- Maine statute on unfair claim settlement practices (insurance): 24‑A §2436
- Maine Judicial Branch (filing claims, small claims information): https://www.courts.maine.gov/
Short checklist to start now
- Gather repair invoices, photos, and vehicle history report.
- Get an independent diminished-value appraisal from a qualified appraiser.
- Send a demand package to the at-fault insurer with the appraisal report and supporting documents.
- Document all communications and consider Bureau of Insurance help or small claims if needed.
Helpful Hints
- Get the appraisal after repairs are complete so the appraiser evaluates the vehicle as a buyer would see it.
- If possible, keep a copy of pre-accident photos—these strongly support higher diminished-value findings.
- Look for appraisers who will testify or provide deposition support if you end up in court.
- Don’t accept a low “take-it-or-leave-it” insurer offer without asking for a written explanation and giving yourself time to consult an appraiser or lawyer.
- Keep all receipts; if you pay for rental cars or other expenses due to the accident, those records may be important for related claims.
- If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, check your own policy for coverage that might respond to diminished value.
Disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about a specific situation in Maine, consult a licensed attorney or contact the Maine Bureau of Insurance.