Can I file a diminished value claim against my own insurer in South Carolina?

Yes — South Carolina permits first-party DV recovery. Campbell v. Calvert Fire Ins. (S.C. 1957) — first- and third-party DV recoverable.

Does South Carolina use comparative or contributory negligence?

South Carolina uses the Modified comparative rule.

SOUTH CAROLINA (SC)

South Carolina Diminished Value Claim — Recover $3,000 – $12,000

South Carolina is a Modified comparative state with a 3 years for property damage. First-party DV is recoverable — your own insurer must evaluate the loss. USPAP-compliant appraisal report delivered in 24 hours.

Get Your Free Estimate Order DV Report — $249

Fault Rule

Modified comparative

Statute of Limitations

3 years for property damage

Typical Recovery

$3,000 – $12,000

Small Claims Limit

$7,500

South Carolina Diminished Value Law — What You Need To Know

South Carolina is one of the small group of states where first-party DV is routinely paid — your own insurer is on the hook. Charleston and Greenville support strong comps; coastal salt corrosion is a common adjuster talking point that needs separation in the appraisal.

Statute citation

S.C. Code §15-3-530

Landmark case

Campbell v. Calvert Fire Ins. (S.C. 1957) — first- and third-party DV recoverable.

First-party DV

✅ Allowed

Third-party DV

✅ Allowed

Appraisal clause

Standard in most policies

Small claims limit

$7,500

South Carolina Filing Tip

On a first-party SC claim, demand your own insurer's written DV evaluation under Campbell — they cannot refuse to assess.

What Drives DV Settlements in South Carolina

First-party recovery available + strong third-party tort base; Carolina-coast comps support above-average recoveries.

How to File a DV Claim in South Carolina

1
Complete repairs at a licensed body shop and obtain a complete itemized repair invoice with all OEM/aftermarket part designations.
2
Order a USPAP-compliant diminished value appraisal report grounded in Charleston-area comparable sales (TOP-DV delivers within 24 hours for $249).
3
Submit a written demand to your own insurer (first-party) AND the at-fault driver's insurer with the appraisal attached, citing S.C. Code §15-3-530 and Campbell v. Calvert Fire Ins. (S.C. 1957).
4
If the carrier refuses or counters low, invoke the appraisal clause in writing.
5
Settlement typically reached within 2-6 weeks once a credible appraisal is on file.

Escalation: South Carolina Department of Insurance

File a complaint with South Carolina Department of Insurance

https://doi.sc.gov/Consumer

If the at-fault carrier refuses to negotiate after receiving a USPAP-compliant appraisal, file simultaneously with the state DOI — this regulatory pressure routinely accelerates settlement.