Diminished Value Appraisal in
Nevada

Last updated: August 18, 2025

Nevada law recognizes diminished value (DV) in third-party liability claims. If another driver is at fault, you may recover the difference between your car’s pre-accident and post-repair value. However, first-party DV claims under your own policy are generally excluded unless your contract specifically covers them. This guide explains when DV applies in Nevada, the laws that govern it, the documentation you’ll need, and how a professional SnapClaim appraisal strengthens your claim.

Does Nevada Allow Diminished Value Claims?

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

Yes. Under Nevada tort law, an at-fault driver’s insurer is liable for all property damage, which can include DV if proven. Courts have allowed recovery where credible appraisal evidence is provided.

First-party (your own insurer)

No, unless policy language explicitly includes it. Standard Nevada policies exclude DV under collision or comprehensive coverage. Most DV claims are made against the at-fault driver’s liability insurer.

Key Nevada Law & Authority

• Statute of limitations: NRS 11.190 — 3 years for property damage, including DV claims.
• Comparative negligence: Nevada follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You may recover DV if you are 50% or less at fault; damages are reduced by your percentage of fault.
• Small claims court: Limit is $10,000.
• Insurance oversight: Complaints can be filed with the Nevada Division of Insurance.

Types of Diminished Value in Nevada

• Immediate DV: Drop in value right after the accident, before repairs.
• Repair-related DV: Loss from poor-quality or incomplete repairs.
• Inherent DV: The most common type — even after quality repairs, the accident history reduces resale value.

What You Need to Document

• Accident report: Request from the Nevada DMV Crash Records.
• Repair records: Keep all invoices, estimates, and receipts.
• Photos: Before-and-after images of the damage and repairs.
• Market data: Comparable sales, dealer quotes, and vehicle history reports (Carfax, AutoCheck).
• Independent appraisal: A certified SnapClaim DV appraisal with Nevada market comparables.

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

1. Confirm fault. DV is only recoverable from the at-fault driver’s insurer.
2. Repair your vehicle. Appraisals are based on post-repair value.
3. Order a professional appraisal. Get a SnapClaim report to establish DV with certified data.
4. Submit your demand package. Include appraisal, repair receipts, and accident report when filing with the insurer.
5. Negotiate using documentation. Insurers may undervalue DV — professional reports improve leverage.
6. Escalate if needed. File a complaint with the Nevada DOI or pursue small claims court (up to $10,000).

Why a Professional Nevada DV Appraisal Matters

Insurance adjusters often undervalue diminished value claims in Nevada. A certified SnapClaim appraisal provides the unbiased proof needed for fair compensation. For total loss claims, see our Fair Market Value Reports. Every SnapClaim report is backed by our Money-Back Guarantee. To compare Nevada with other states, visit our State DV Law Guide.