Diminished Value Appraisal in
Mississippi

Last updated: August 18, 2025

Mississippi law allows recovery of diminished value (DV) in third-party liability claims. If another driver is at fault, you may claim compensation for the difference between your vehicle’s pre-accident fair market value and its post-repair value. First-party DV claims under your own policy are generally excluded unless your policy specifically provides coverage. This guide explains Mississippi’s rules on DV, the statutes that apply, evidence you’ll need, and why a certified SnapClaim appraisal strengthens your claim.

Does Mississippi Allow Diminished Value Claims?

Third-party (at-fault driver’s insurer)

Yes. Mississippi follows the general tort principle that an injured party is entitled to be made whole. Courts have recognized that repair costs alone do not always restore value, and DV may be recoverable when supported by credible evidence.

First-party (your own insurer)

No, unless specified. Most Mississippi auto policies exclude DV under collision or comprehensive coverage. Unless your policy includes DV language, claims are limited to physical repair costs.

Key Mississippi Law & Authority

• Statute of limitations: Miss. Code Ann. § 15-1-49 — 3 years for property damage claims, including DV.
• Comparative fault: Mississippi applies pure comparative negligence. DV recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
• Small claims (Justice Court): Limit is $3,500.
• Insurance regulation: Complaints handled by the Mississippi Insurance Department.

Types of Diminished Value in Mississippi

• Immediate DV: Value lost right after the accident, before repairs.
• Repair-related DV: Caused by incomplete or poor repairs.
• Inherent DV: The most common — even after professional repairs, buyers discount vehicles with accident histories.

What You Need to Document

• Accident report: Available from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety.
• Repair invoices: Full records from your repair facility.
• Photos: Before and after photos of the damage and repairs.
• Market comparables: Dealer quotes, trade-in offers, or vehicle history reports showing loss of value.
• Independent appraisal: A certified SnapClaim DV appraisal tailored to Mississippi’s used car market.

Step-by-Step: Filing a Diminished Value Claim in Mississippi

1. Confirm liability. DV applies when another driver is legally responsible.
2. Repair your vehicle. Appraisals rely on post-repair condition.
3. Order a DV appraisal. Secure a SnapClaim report with Mississippi-specific market data.
4. Submit demand package. Include appraisal, repair receipts, and police report to the insurer.
5. Negotiate with proof. Insurers may dispute DV; a professional report strengthens your case.
6. Escalate if needed. File with the Mississippi Insurance Department or pursue Justice Court (up to $3,500).

Why a Professional Mississippi DV Appraisal Matters

Mississippi insurers often resist DV claims or undervalue them. A certified SnapClaim appraisal provides market-supported evidence that boosts your negotiating power. For total loss cases, see our Fair Market Value Reports. Every report is covered by our Money-Back Guarantee. For other states, explore our State DV Law Guide.