By
law (at least at this writing) insurance companies can't dictate to you
which auto body shop to use. However, when it comes to selecting one,
what criteria should be used in determining which shop to pick?
Here are some valuable tips for chosing a qualified auto body repair shop: - Ask
if technicians are ICAR trained or ASE certified. If body technicians,
painters, office staff, and even the detail person that cleans your car
are ICAR trained, it means they have attended a course or series of
courses offered by the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision
Repair (ICAR) to help upgrade their skills. Businesses with trained
personnel are likely to display these and other certificates or
diplomas in the customer waiting area. Look for the symbol of
excellence in collision repair, look for the ICAR Gold Class
Professional emblems proudly displayed. This indicates the business is
committed to a higher level of training and professionalism.
- Ask
about the business' industry and consumer affiliations. For example, a
business that is a member of ASA has agreed to uphold the association's
Code of Ethics, which sets the standard for professionalism in the
collision repair industry.
- Expect the
collision repair facility to be neat, clean and well organized. The
flow of existing work should be almost unnoticeable.
- Note
whether the employees are helpful and courteous. This will give you an
idea of how you will be treated throughout the repair process.
- Ask
about the shop policy on replacement parts. When does the shop feel
that non original equipment manufacturer's parts are to be used? You
have the right to choose which type of parts go on your car.
- Ask how long the shop has been in business.
- Ask
about the shops painting procedures. Does the shop have a computerized
system for mixing the paint and keeping up with the waste? Ask about
the paint manufacturer's guarantee.
- Check
what guarantees the shop offers. Quality collision repair shops should
offer a "Limited Lifetime Guarantee". Ask to see a copy of a printed
guarantee, read it and ask questions if you do not understand what is
covered and not covered.
- Make sure you get
a written Visible Damage Appraisal. Most Insurance Companies require
that a shop only appraise what can be seen, this means that there is
usually hidden damage not appraised. An Insurance Company has the right
to inspect the damages they are paying to repair or replace and have
procedures for these supplemental items to be submitted for payment.
- A
Quality Collision Repair facility can usually be found by asking your
Insurance Agent, family, friends, neighbors and co-workers for their
recommendations.
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