Detailed Answer — Overview and Nevada law context

Diminished value refers to the reduction in a vehicle’s market value after it has been damaged and repaired. In Nevada, you can pursue diminished value from the at‑fault party’s insurer (a third‑party claim). Whether your own insurer will pay diminished value under a first‑party claim depends on your policy language and circumstances. Nevada law requires insurers to handle claims fairly; see the Nevada Revised Statutes on insurance unfair practices for more on insurer duties: NRS Chapter 686A. For consumer guidance and complaint options, you can also consult the Nevada Division of Insurance: doi.nv.gov.

Step‑by‑step process to get a diminished value quote in Nevada

1. Document the damage and repair:

   Keep the police report (if any), photos of the damage before and after repair, and all repair invoices. Note whether repairs used original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or aftermarket parts, and whether any structural or frame work occurred.

2. Collect vehicle background and valuation paperwork:

   Gather the vehicle’s make, model, year, VIN, mileage at the time of the loss, recent maintenance records, and a pre‑loss value estimate such as a Kelley Blue Book, NADA, or Edmunds appraisal. A vehicle history report (Carfax, AutoCheck) that shows the accident or damage helps establish diminished value.

3. Choose how to get a quote:

   You can obtain a diminished value quote from: (a) a licensed vehicle appraiser who issues a written appraisal using accepted valuation methods; (b) a company that specializes in diminished value reports; or (c) an independent appraiser affiliated with an attorney. Common valuation approaches include a market‑based comparables method and industry formulas (for example, the commonly referenced “17c” approach), though methods and reliability vary.

4. Request a written diminished value appraisal or report:

   Ask the appraiser to provide a written report stating the lost market value, the methodology used, the data and comparables relied upon, and supporting documentation. A credible report should show how the appraiser arrived at the dollar figure and include comparables or market data.

5. Submit the quote to the at‑fault insurer (or your insurer if applicable):

   Send a demand package that includes the appraisal/report, repair invoices, photos, and the vehicle history report. Keep copies and send via trackable delivery or email with read receipts. The at‑fault insurer typically reviews the documentation and may accept, reject, or counteroffer.

6. Negotiate or escalate if needed:

   If the insurer disputes the amount or denies liability for diminished value, you can ask for a detailed denial in writing. Depending on the response, options include further negotiation, independent appraisal or appraisal clauses (if the insurance policy contains one), filing a complaint with the Nevada Division of Insurance, or pursuing a civil claim in court. For disputes involving significant amounts, consider consulting a Nevada attorney experienced in auto claims and diminished value matters.

Factors that affect a diminished value quote

• Vehicle age, mileage, condition, and market demand
• Severity and location of damage (structural/frame damage reduces value more)
• Quality and visibility of repairs (OEM parts vs aftermarket, paint match)
• Whether the vehicle receives a branded title or salvage branding
• Local market comparables for similar vehicles with and without accident history

Typical timeline

Getting a written quote or appraisal usually takes a few days to a few weeks depending on appraiser availability and the need to collect comparables. Insurance responses often take a few weeks; Nevada insurers must follow claims handling standards under state law. If negotiations fail and you pursue legal action, the timeline extends significantly.

When you might need help from an attorney

Consider talking with a Nevada attorney if:

• The insurer refuses to acknowledge diminished value or makes an unreasonably low offer.
• The claimed diminished value exceeds small‑claims limits or involves complex disputes about liability or appraisals.
• There is a branded salvage title or other title issues that significantly lower value.

An attorney can review the appraisal methodology, communicate with insurers on your behalf, and explain your options under Nevada law.

Helpful Hints

• Act promptly after repairs: collect and organize photos, repair invoices, and VIN‑level data while details remain fresh.
• Use a written appraisal that explains the valuation method and includes comparable sales or market data.
• Confirm whether your own policy language covers diminished value (first‑party) before expecting payment from your insurer.
• When submitting a demand, include a concise cover letter, the appraisal, repair bills, photos, and the vehicle history report.
• Keep all communications with insurers in writing and document dates, names, and summaries of phone calls.
• If you dispute an insurer’s handling, consider filing a complaint with the Nevada Division of Insurance: File a Complaint (Nevada DOI).
• For larger claims, a written attorney review before litigation can preserve evidence and improve outcomes.