How to get a diminished value quote for a vehicle in New Hampshire

Short answer: Gather proof of pre‑loss value and repair work, hire a qualified diminished‑value appraiser (or get multiple appraisals), collect market comparables and a vehicle history report, then present the written appraisal(s) to the at‑fault insurer (or your insurer, if pursuing subrogation). If the insurer disputes the amount, you can negotiate, file a complaint with the New Hampshire Insurance Department, or consider a court claim. This page explains each step in plain language and points to state consumer resources.

Detailed answer

1. What ‘diminished value’ means

Diminished value is the difference between a vehicle’s market value immediately before an accident and its market value after repairs. Even when repairs restore function and appearance, many buyers will pay less for a vehicle with an accident history. That lost resale value is the diminished value claim.

2. Is a diminished value claim possible in New Hampshire?

Yes. If another driver caused the crash, you can generally pursue diminished value from that at‑fault driver’s liability insurer. If you used your own insurance to pay repairs, your insurer may pursue subrogation against the at‑fault insurer—but you may still have a separate diminished value claim against the at‑fault insurer. New Hampshire does not have a specific statute that creates a unique diminished value process, but insurers and claimants operate under general insurance and tort rules. For consumer help and to learn about insurer complaint procedures, see the New Hampshire Insurance Department: https://www.nh.gov/insurance/consumers/index.htm.

3. Documents and evidence you will need

• Photos of vehicle before the crash (if available), damage photos, and photos after repairs.
• Repair invoices and receipts showing parts used and work performed.
• Vehicle identification information (VIN), make, model, year, mileage at time of loss.
• Vehicle history report (Carfax, AutoCheck) showing accident and repair history.
• Comparable market listings (local ads or online listings for similar vehicles without accident history).
• Any prior appraisals, pre‑loss valuations (Kelley Blue Book, NADA, Edmunds), and the insurance estimate for repairs.

4. How to get a reliable diminished value quote (step‑by‑step)

1. Decide whether to use an independent appraiser. A qualified diminished value appraiser produces a written report estimating lost market value. Appraisers use market comparables, repair details, and valuation guides. You can obtain one independent appraisal or multiple appraisals to support a claim.
2. Choose the appraisal method and appraiser carefully. Ask for an appraiser experienced with diminished value claims in your region and look for written sample reports. Ask how they calculate value (market comparables, statistical formulas, or both) and whether they provide a clear explanation you can use with the insurer.
3. Provide the appraiser with complete documentation. Give photos, repair invoices, VIN, mileage, and any pre‑loss valuations or prior appraisals. The clearer the file, the stronger the quote.
4. Receive a written appraisal (the ‘quote’). The appraiser should provide a written report with: pre‑loss and post‑repair market value estimates, a dollar figure for diminished value, the methodology used, and supporting comparables. Typical turnaround times vary from a few days to a week.
5. Get multiple quotes if needed. For large claims or if the insurer disputes the amount, getting a second independent appraisal or dealer market opinion can strengthen your position.
6. Submit the appraisal to the at‑fault insurer with a written demand. Include the appraisal, repair invoices, photos, and a clear demand amount. Keep records of all communications.

5. What the insurer may do

The insurer may accept the appraisal, make a lower counteroffer, or deny the claim. Common insurer responses include requesting additional documentation, offering a lower amount based on their own valuation method, or arguing that repairs fully restored value. Keep written records and deadlines for any counteroffers.

6. If you disagree with the insurer

• Negotiate using market comparables, repair invoices, and multiple appraisals.
• File a complaint with the New Hampshire Insurance Department if you believe the insurer acted unfairly: https://www.nh.gov/insurance/consumers/index.htm.
• Consider filing a small claims action or civil suit if negotiation and regulatory complaint don’t resolve the dispute. For court filing information and self‑help resources, see the New Hampshire Judicial Branch self‑help pages: https://www.courts.state.nh.us/selfhelp/.

7. Costs and timing

An independent diminished value appraisal typically costs money (appraisal fees vary). The overall timeline depends on how quickly you gather records and the insurer responds—expect several weeks for appraisal and initial insurer response, longer if disputes arise.

8. When to hire an attorney

Consider consulting an attorney if:

• The diminished value amount is large compared to the cost of legal help.
• The insurer denies liability or refuses reasonable negotiation.
• There are complex factual disputes about fault, repair quality, or pre‑existing damage.

Helpful hints

• Start documenting immediately: take clear photos and save all repair estimates and invoices.
• Keep a chronological file of all communications with insurers, including dates, names, and summaries of calls.
• Use market comparables from the same region—vehicle values vary by local market.
• Ask any appraiser for a written, itemized report you can present to the insurer or a judge.
• If you use your own insurer for repairs, keep in mind they may seek to recover diminished value from the at‑fault insurer, but you still may need to press the third‑party insurer for direct payment.
• If an insurer tells you diminished value is not covered, ask for that response in writing and consider filing a complaint with the New Hampshire Insurance Department: https://www.nh.gov/insurance/consumers/index.htm.
• Before paying for an appraisal, ask whether the appraiser’s report is intended for use in claims or litigation—reports suitable for court generally need more detail and may cost more.

Where to get more help

New Hampshire Insurance Department (consumer info and complaint filing): https://www.nh.gov/insurance/consumers/index.htm

New Hampshire Judicial Branch self‑help resources (small claims and civil process): https://www.courts.state.nh.us/selfhelp/

Disclaimer: This article is informational and educational only. It does not create an attorney‑client relationship and is not legal advice. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in New Hampshire or contact the New Hampshire Insurance Department for consumer assistance.