Diminution in value can occur when a vehicle has been involved in an accident and consequently repaired, particularly if repairs were reasonably extensive, involving parts of the body-shell or chassis, and/or significant paintwork.

If the insured subsequently attempts to part exchange or sell the vehicle, it is unlikely that a potential purchaser will pay the same as an identical model with an unblemished history.

Dealers will often reduce their offers on damaged vehicles, and it is not unusual to see them refuse to take such a vehicle, particularly if the damage was extensive.

Diminution is not limited to high value prestige vehicles and providing the vehicle is relatively new (typically up to 4 years old) and has sustained enough damage (typically over £2500 worth*) then diminution will be an applicable factor for any vehicle.

We can examine the vehicle and consider the type, extent and cost of repairs, together with the vehicles market desirability, value and age and provide an opinion on the likely percentage drop in value.

For Defendants & Insurers we scrutinize any claims for the purposes of counter-diminution to examine whether there would have been any loss of value, and if not we will advise refuting the claim and the reasons why.  If there is a genuine loss then we will assess whether the quantum is appropriate. 

Counter-diminution reports normally take 24 hours to compile after inspection and can be sent via email, fax and /or post.  They can also be carried out as a desktop report where required (e.g. if the vehicle has since been written off or stolen)

Visit www.diminution.me.uk for a free diminution check and more information.

Our engineers are generally from a motor trade background and have been extensively trained in assessing diminution of value claims.  

They will examine the repaired or damaged vehicle anywhere in the UK, normally the following day, but within 48 hours of instruction.  They will then consider the damage and the vehicle and provide a comprehensive report which complies with the 2011 Civil Procedure Rules, so can be used as an Expert Witness document in Court proceedings.

They are highly qualified, typically holding memberships of the Institute of Automotive Engineering Assessors, Institute of the Motor Industry, and / or being Certificated Automobile Engineers, ATA qualified.  Many are also Engineering Technicians registered with the Engineering Council, Thatcham certificated, Members of Fédération Internationale des Experts en Automobiles plus they are Law Society & Legal 500 listed Expert Witnesses.

Our engineers are experienced in preparing and answering part 35 questions, joint reports, single joint expert reports and giving oral evidence in diminution claims in Court.

We provide vehicle inspection reports for not only Claimant solicitors and accident management companies, but also counter-diminution reports for Defendant solicitors and insurers in cases where diminution claims have been exaggerated or are simply not applicable.

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