Frequently Asked Questions
What is a diminished value appraisal?
A diminished value appraisal determines how much a vehicle’s market value has decreased after an accident — even after proper repairs. It’s most often used to support insurance claims when you weren’t at fault.
Am I eligible for a diminished value claim?
In many cases, yes. Washington allows drivers to pursue diminished value when another party is at fault. If your vehicle was damaged in an accident you did not cause, has been repaired, and now has a measurable loss in resale value, you may be eligible to claim diminished value from the at-fault driver’s insurer. Every situation is different, but a professional appraisal helps determine whether it’s worth pursuing.
How long does the appraisal process take?
Turnaround time is typically 48–72 hours once repair documentation is received. Expedited service is available for time-sensitive claims.
What documents do I need to provide?
You’ll need:
The final repair estimate and invoice
Photos of the vehicle (before and after repair, if available)
The insurance company’s offer, if applicable
The VIN and mileage
How much does it cost?
Most reports range between $595–$800, depending on scope and turnaround. You’ll receive a flat quote before any work begins.
Will my insurance company accept this appraisal?
Yes. Our reports are designed to meet insurer documentation standards and include verifiable market data, comparable sales, and detailed methodology that holds up to professional scrutiny.
What’s the difference between a diminished value appraisal and a total loss review?
A diminished value appraisal measures loss in value after a repairable accident.
A total loss valuation review verifies whether the insurance payout on a totaled vehicle accurately reflects true market value.
Do you handle pre-purchase or resale appraisals?
Yes. For buyers, we help confirm that a vehicle’s value and condition align with the asking price. For sellers, we provide defensible, data-backed appraisals that help maximize return.
Why choose Northwest Pacific Appraisal?
With over 12 years of real-world automotive experience and thousands of transactions evaluated, we provide appraisals grounded in market logic — not assumptions. Every report reflects hands-on expertise from both the buyer and seller side of the industry.