Diminished Value Appraisal in
Minnesota
Recover the lost value of your car after an accident with a certified Minnesota diminished value appraisal.
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Filing a Diminished Value Claim in Minnesota: What You Need to Know
Last updated: August 18, 2025
Minnesota law allows recovery of diminished value (DV) in third-party liability claims when another driver is at fault. However, under Minnesota’s no-fault insurance system, your own insurer generally does not cover DV for first-party claims unless specifically written into the policy. This guide explains Minnesota’s DV rules, key statutes, what evidence you need, and why a certified SnapClaim appraisal gives you the strongest case.
Does Minnesota Allow Diminished Value Claims?
Third-party (at-fault driver’s insurer)
Yes. Minnesota courts recognize that repair costs alone do not always restore a vehicle’s pre-accident value. If another driver is responsible, you can pursue DV as part of your property damage claim.
First-party (your own insurer)
Generally no. Minnesota’s No-Fault Act (Minn. Stat. § 65B) requires insurers to pay for repairs but does not obligate them to cover DV. Only if your policy explicitly includes DV coverage could you recover under first-party benefits.
Key Minnesota Law & Authority
- Statute of limitations: Minn. Stat. § 541.05 — 6 years for property damage claims, including DV.
- Comparative fault: Minnesota uses modified comparative negligence (51% bar). If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover DV.
- Small claims (Conciliation Court): Limit is $15,000 ($4,000 for consumer credit transactions).
- Insurance regulation: Oversight by the Minnesota Department of Commerce – Insurance Division.
Types of Diminished Value in Minnesota
- Immediate DV: Loss of value immediately after an accident, prior to repairs.
- Repair-related DV: From visible defects or substandard work after repairs.
- Inherent DV: The most common type — even with quality repairs, accident history lowers resale and trade-in value.
What You Need to Document
- Accident report: Request from the Minnesota Driver & Vehicle Services (DVS).
- Repair invoices: Full documentation from your repair facility.
- Photos: Before, during, and after repairs.
- Comparable market data: Dealer quotes, trade-in estimates, or valuation tools showing diminished resale value.
- Independent appraisal: A certified SnapClaim appraisal based on Minnesota market conditions.
Step-by-Step: Filing a Diminished Value Claim in Minnesota
- Determine liability. DV applies only if another party is legally at fault.
- Repair your car. An appraisal depends on post-repair condition.
- Order a DV appraisal. Get a SnapClaim DV report with Minnesota-specific market data.
- Send demand package. Include appraisal, receipts, and the accident report to the at-fault driver’s insurer.
- Negotiate. If the insurer undervalues your claim, present your appraisal as authoritative evidence.
- Escalate if needed. File in Conciliation Court (limit $15,000) or submit a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Commerce.
Why a Professional Minnesota DV Appraisal Matters
Insurance companies in Minnesota often minimize DV claims. A certified SnapClaim appraisal provides hard evidence rooted in Minnesota’s car market, giving you leverage in negotiations. For total loss disputes, see our Fair Market Value Reports. Every SnapClaim report comes with a Money-Back Guarantee. For state-by-state rules, visit our DV Law Guide.
Recover Diminished Value After an Accident in Minnesota
In Minnesota, vehicles often lose resale value after an accident, even with proper repairs. This is called diminished value. A certified Minnesota diminished value appraisal gives you the proof needed to claim that loss and recover fair compensation.
SnapClaim makes the process simple with free diminished value estimates, certified reports, and insurer-ready demand letters trusted by attorneys and adjusters across Minnesota.
"When my car was hit in St. Paul, it looked fixed but the trade-in offers dropped a lot. SnapClaim’s Minnesota appraisal gave me solid proof of the lost value, and my lawyer used it to get the insurer to pay the difference."
Mohammed N.
St. Paul, MN
Frequently Asked Questions - Minnesota:
- Does Minnesota allow diminished value claims?
Yes. Minnesota law allows drivers to pursue diminished value claims in third-party accidents where another driver is at fault. Even if your vehicle is fully repaired, you may still recover compensation for the reduction in resale or trade-in value. Learn how Minnesota compares in our State Diminished Value Laws Guide.
- Why do I need a diminished value appraisal in Minnesota?
Insurance companies in Minnesota frequently undervalue or dismiss diminished value claims. A certified auto appraisal provides market-based proof of your vehicle’s post-accident loss, helping you secure a stronger settlement. Start with our free diminished value estimate.
- How much does a Minnesota diminished value appraisal cost?
Our Pricing page lists all current appraisal fees. Every SnapClaim appraisal is backed by our Money-Back Guarantee and comes with a demand letter you can send directly to insurers.
- Will insurance companies accept a SnapClaim appraisal in Minnesota?
Yes. SnapClaim appraisals are widely used in Minnesota for both negotiations and legal cases. Attorneys and policyholders rely on them to secure fair settlements. For a full guide, visit: How to File a Diminished Value Claim.
- How fast can I get my Minnesota diminished value report?
Most reports are delivered within the same day, often in under an hour. Each package includes a certified appraisal and an insurer-ready demand letter. See what’s included in our Certified Appraisal Guide.
- Can I file a diminished value claim in Minnesota if I was at fault?
No. Diminished value claims are generally recoverable only in third-party claims where another driver caused the accident. If your car was declared a total loss, you may instead need a Fair Market Value (Total Loss) Appraisal.
- What documents should I gather for a Minnesota diminished value claim?
You should collect the police report, repair invoices, parts lists, photos before and after repairs, and any diagnostic or calibration scans. For guidance, follow our step-by-step blog: How to File a Diminished Value Claim.
- What is the deadline to file a diminished value claim in Minnesota?
Minnesota’s statute of limitations for property damage, including diminished value, is six years from the date of the accident. Don’t delay—insurers may attempt to prolong negotiations. Compare deadlines nationwide in our State Laws Guide.
- Where can I order a Minnesota diminished value appraisal?
Order online in just minutes: Start My Appraisal. For total loss claims, request our Fair Market Value Appraisal.
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