Last updated: August 18, 2025

Diminished Value & Total Loss Appraisals in Georgia: What You Need to Know

Georgia is the nation’s leader in diminished value (DV) law and a major state for fair market value (FMV) or total loss claims. Whether your vehicle was repaired or declared a total loss, Georgia law gives you the right to recover its true pre-accident value. This page explains how Georgia diminished value and total loss appraisals work, what laws apply, key filing steps, and how a professional SnapClaim report can help you secure a fair settlement.

For detailed guidance on local diminished value claims, visit our Georgia Diminished Value Appraisal page.

Does Georgia Allow Diminished Value and Total Loss Claims?

Diminished Value (DV)

Yes. Georgia recognizes inherent diminished value as a recoverable loss. In State Farm Mut. Auto. Ins. Co. v. Mabry, 556 S.E.2d 114 (Ga. 2001), the Georgia Supreme Court ruled that an insurer must compensate policyholders for the lost market value that remains after quality repairs. Unless your policy specifically excludes DV, you may pursue it under both third-party (the at-fault driver’s insurer) and first-party (your own insurer) coverage.

Fair Market Value / Total Loss (FMV)

Yes. When repair costs approach or exceed your car’s pre-loss value, Georgia insurers must pay the vehicle’s fair market value. If you disagree with the insurer’s total-loss offer, you have the right to an independent Fair Market Value Appraisal. SnapClaim’s FMV reports use verified Georgia listings and dealer data to establish the car’s actual retail value before the crash.

Key Georgia Law & Authority

• DV recognition:Mabry (2001) — insurers must pay for inherent diminished value under standard policies.
• FMV requirement: O.C.G.A. § 33-4-7 — insurers must settle total-loss claims for the vehicle’s fair market value.
• Statute of limitations: O.C.G.A. § 9-3-31 — 4 years for property-damage claims, including DV and FMV disputes.
• Comparative negligence: O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33 — recovery barred if you are ≥ 50 % at fault.
• Small claims: Georgia Magistrate Court handles claims ≤ $15,000 (Magistrate Courts Council).
• Insurance complaints: File with the Georgia Office of Commissioner of Insurance.

What You Should Document

• Accident or police report: Obtain from the Georgia BuyCrash portal.
• Repair estimates and invoices: Include supplements, calibration, and frame data.
• Vehicle photos: Before and after repair, showing VIN and odometer.
• Comparable sales data: Georgia dealer and private-party listings showing actual retail value.
• Certified DV or FMV appraisal prepared by SnapClaim.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Confirm your claim type. Determine if it’s DV (post-repair) or FMV (total loss).
2. Gather documentation. Collect repair records, photos, and vehicle data.
3. Order a professional appraisal.SnapClaim reports use real Georgia comparables and defendable methodology.
4. Submit a written demand. Attach your report, cite Mabry, and request fair settlement.
5. Negotiate with evidence. Insurers often rely on low formulas like “17c”; your independent appraisal provides the market proof.
6. Escalate if needed. File a complaint with the Insurance Commissioner, or pursue small claims (≤ $15,000) or State/Superior Court for higher amounts.

Why a Professional Georgia Appraisal Matters

Whether pursuing diminished value or fair market value, Georgia insurers frequently undervalue claims using non-transparent formulas. A SnapClaim Diminished Value Report or Fair Market Value Report applies local market comparables, verified sale data, and expert adjustments that meet USPAP standards. Reports are court-ready and backed by our Money-Back Guarantee.

Ready to Claim Your Vehicle’s True Value?

Start with a free estimate — no credit card required. SnapClaim combines certified appraisers, real-time Georgia market data, and AI-assisted valuation to deliver reports accepted by attorneys and insurers statewide.

Get My Free Estimate →

For other states, visit Diminished Value State Laws.