Trust DVAC to 

Recover the True Value of Your Vehicle.

Diminished Value Appraisal in California

Filing A Diminished 

Value Claim In

California

Statute of Limitations to File:

3 Years

File First Party Claim:

No

File Third Party Claim:

Yes

Diminished Value Through Uninsured Motorist Coverage:

Check Your Coverage

Small Claims Max Filling:

$12,500

OUR PROVEN PROCESS

How It Works

We provide an accurate diminished value assessment backed by trusted sources and insurance-approved methods. Our in-depth report includes real market data, ensuring a strong case for your claim. With expert guidance, we support you through negotiations until you secure the compensation you deserve.

1

Start Your Appraisal

Start the process with a FREE consultation when you call us at (877) 879-0101 or fill out our Appraisal Form and we will contact you within minutes!

2

Intake & Delivery

We analyze data to determine your vehicle’s true diminished value and deliver a quick, accurate appraisal that insurance companies can’t ignore.

3

End-to-End Support

We don’t stop at a report. We advise and support you through negotiations every step of the way until you receive your rightful compensation.

Results In

California

Emily had me send my insurance loss quote and ran some numbers for me that was complimentary.

The numbers revealed that their service would not be worth my while.

Such a professional, upstanding, wonderful service and company.
Very knowledgeable, prompt service! Highly recommend!
They respond promptly and efficiently. More importantly, they get the very satisfied results with their help how to respond to my insurance company. I was able to get paid more than I expected. My insurance company gave me a hard time and not willing to pay me. Richard gave an outstanding service.
Really appreciate this business, especially Richard (I think he is the president of this business) who gave me genuine advice and spent his time to educate me about the process, pros/cons of the diminished value claim and how to further proceed with future sale of the car.
Someone tried to steal my truck here in Mill Valley. They screwed it up pretty badly. Geico considered it a total loss gave me a good offer, but I wanted a second opinion. These guys looked at the Geico offer and agreed it was a good value offered and that I SHOULDN'T PAY THEM to evaluate the loss. How can you not appreciate that? I accepted the Geico offer. FWIW, they folks are a national company but that isn't an issue. They gave great information and service. Very responsive too. Totally stoked, despite being bummed that I lost my truck. If you've had a significant loss, give them a shot to help you out.
DVAC A+ Better Business Bureau rating
DVAC 5 star Google Reviews

Navigating the Aftermath: What to Do When You’re in a Vehicle Accident

Experiencing a vehicle accident is a distressing event that can leave lasting effects. It’s crucial to handle the aftermath with composure and a clear plan of action to safeguard yourself and others involved. Whether it’s a minor bump or a major collision, understanding the steps to take can significantly impact your recovery process. In addition […]

Read More

Valid

California

Case Law

Diminished value is recoverable by both a third-party who’s at fault and by your own policy’s underinsured motorist coverage. The statute of limitations is 3 years from the date of the accident. Section 16020

CACI No. 3903J. Damage to Personal Property (Economic Damage)

Judicial Council of California Civil Jury Instructions (2024 edition)

3903J. Damage to Personal Property (Economic Damage)

[Insert number, e.g., “10.”] The harm to [name of plaintiff]’s [item of personal property, e.g., automobile].

To recover damages for harm to personal property, [name of plaintiff] must prove the reduction in the [e.g., automobile]’s value or the reasonable cost of repairing it, whichever is less. [If there is evidence of both, [name of plaintiff] is entitled to the lesser of the two amounts.] [However, if you find that the [e.g., automobile] can be repaired, but after repairs it will be worth less than it was before the harm, the damages are (1) the difference between its value immediately before the harm and

its lesser value immediately after the repairs have been made; plus (2) the reasonable cost of making the repairs. The total amount awarded may not exceed the [e.g., automobile]’s value immediately before the harm occurred.]

To determine the reduction in value if repairs cannot be made, you must determine the fair market value of the [e.g., automobile] immediately before the harm occurred and then subtract the fair market value immediately after the harm occurred.

“Fair market value” is the highest price that a willing buyer would have paid to a willing seller, assuming:

1. That there is no pressure on either one to buy or sell; and

2. That both buyer and seller have reasonable knowledge of all relevant facts about the condition and quality of the [e.g., automobile].

Start Your Appraisal

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      What is Diminished Value?

      Even after repairs, your car may lose resale value due to its accident history—known as diminished value. Many buyers avoid damaged vehicles or expect a discount, but you have the right to file a diminished value claim. Some insurance companies won’t inform you of your right to an independent appraisal and often minimize payouts. With accurate data and a strong claim, DVAC ensures you get the compensation you deserve.

      Call DVAC at 877-879-0101 for a FREE consultation or Start your Appraisal now!