Diminished Value Appraisal in
Maryland
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Filing a Diminished Value Claim in Maryland: What You Need to Know
Last updated: August 18, 2025
Maryland allows recovery of diminished value (DV) in third-party liability claims against an at-fault driver. However, most first-party policies in Maryland exclude DV coverage, meaning your own insurer generally will not pay for loss in market value. This guide explains when DV is recoverable in Maryland, the legal background, what documentation you need, and why a certified SnapClaim appraisal is the key to proving your loss.
Does Maryland Allow Diminished Value Claims?
Third-party (at-fault driver’s insurer)
Yes. If another driver damages your vehicle, you may claim DV as part of property damage recovery. Maryland courts recognize DV as the difference in fair market value before and after the accident, even after quality repairs.
First-party (your own insurer)
No. Most Maryland auto policies exclude DV under collision and comprehensive coverage. Your insurer must repair your car but is not required to restore lost resale value.
Key Maryland Law & Authority
- Negligence recovery: DV recognized under general Maryland tort principles (case law interpreting property damage recovery).
- Statute of limitations: 3 years for property damage claims in Maryland.
- Small claims court: Up to $5,000 in Maryland District Court.
- Regulator: Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA).
Types of Diminished Value in Maryland
- Immediate DV: Value lost right after the accident before repairs.
- Repair-related DV: Reduction caused by visible defects or poor workmanship.
- Inherent DV: The most common — even with excellent repairs, a vehicle with accident history is worth less.
What You Need to Document
- Accident report: Obtain through the Maryland State Police or local agency.
- Repair invoices: Keep full documentation of completed work.
- Before-and-after photos: Evidence of damage and repairs.
- Market valuation evidence: Dealer trade-in quotes and comparable vehicle listings.
- Certified DV appraisal: A SnapClaim appraisal to calculate your loss in value.
Step-by-Step: Filing a Diminished Value Claim in Maryland
- Confirm eligibility. DV claims are valid only against an at-fault driver, not your own insurer.
- Repair your vehicle. Insurers generally require proof of repairs before evaluating DV.
- Order a DV appraisal. Use a SnapClaim certified report as your supporting evidence.
- Submit a demand letter. Include your appraisal, accident report, and repair records.
- Negotiate. Expect pushback; insurers in Maryland often undervalue DV unless presented with expert evidence.
- Escalate if necessary. File in small claims court (up to $5,000) or higher court for larger claims.
Why a Maryland DV Appraisal Matters
Because Maryland insurers rarely pay DV without strong documentation, a SnapClaim appraisal is critical to prove your case. For total loss claims, consider our Fair Market Value Reports. All SnapClaim reports include a Money-Back Guarantee. Learn more in our State DV Law Guide.
Recover Diminished Value After an Accident in Maryland
In Maryland, you may recover losses through a diminished value claim if another driver is responsible for your accident. Even after quality repairs, vehicles often lose value once they carry an accident history. A certified Maryland diminished value appraisal provides the evidence needed to support your claim.
SnapClaim delivers quick, data-driven reports that insurers and attorneys recognize. Our appraisals help Maryland drivers negotiate stronger settlements and recover what they’re rightfully owed.
"When my sedan was sideswiped in Baltimore, the repairs looked fine, but the resale offers dropped sharply. SnapClaim’s appraisal gave me solid documentation, and the insurance company paid for the diminished value without a fight."
Ali R.
Baltimore, MD
Frequently Asked Questions - Maryland:
- Does Maryland allow diminished value claims?
Yes. Maryland recognizes diminished value in third-party auto insurance claims. If another driver caused the accident, you may recover compensation for the loss in your vehicle’s resale value, even after repairs. Compare Maryland’s rules with other states in our State Diminished Value Laws Guide.
- Why do I need a diminished value appraisal in Maryland?
Insurance companies in Maryland often minimize diminished value payouts. A certified auto appraisal ensures your claim is supported with market data, comparable sales, and expert methodology. Begin with our free diminished value estimate.
- How much does a Maryland diminished value appraisal cost?
Our pricing is clearly listed on the Pricing page. Every report comes with a demand letter ready for your insurer and is backed by our Money-Back Guarantee.
- Will insurance companies accept a SnapClaim appraisal in Maryland?
Yes. SnapClaim reports are insurer-ready and widely accepted in both negotiations and legal cases. Maryland drivers and attorneys frequently rely on them to win higher settlements. See the full process in our guide: How to File a Diminished Value Claim.
- How fast can I get my Maryland diminished value report?
Most reports are delivered within the same day, often within an hour. Each package includes a certified appraisal and a demand letter you can immediately submit to the insurance company. Learn more in our Certified Appraisal Guide.
- Can I claim diminished value in Maryland if I was at fault?
No. In Maryland, diminished value is typically only available in third-party claims where another driver is responsible. If your car is a total loss, you may need a Fair Market Value Appraisal instead.
- What documents do I need for a Maryland diminished value claim?
Collect the accident report, repair invoices and estimates, photos before and after repairs, and any diagnostic or calibration records. Follow the complete checklist in our blog: How to File a Diminished Value Claim.
- What is the deadline to file a diminished value claim in Maryland?
Maryland’s statute of limitations for property damage, including diminished value, is generally three years from the accident date. Acting quickly is recommended to avoid insurance delays. See nationwide deadlines in our State Laws Guide.
- Where can I order a Maryland diminished value appraisal?
You can order online in minutes: Start My Appraisal. For total losses, select our Fair Market Value Appraisal.
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