Overview
After an accident, the estimate is the document that connects the damage, the repair plan and the insurance claim. It lists parts, labor operations, refinishing and materials. Insurers may write their own estimate, use photo-based estimating, or rely on the shop's estimate, and the two sometimes differ.
Understanding the basics helps. Your deductible applies to your own policy's collision or comprehensive coverage. If another driver is at fault, their insurer may handle the claim. Supplements are added when hidden damage is found. And repair decisions are ultimately approved by you, even when an insurer is paying.
A body shop can explain the estimate line by line and communicate with the insurer about the repair process. It's helpful to keep records of photos, claim numbers and correspondence.
The usual process
- Explaining parts types and repair methods.
- Communicating with the insurer about the estimate and supplements.
- Writing an estimate with parts, labor and refinish operations.
- Documenting the damage with photos and notes.
- Updating you on approval and timelines.
Key considerations
- Keep claim documentation organized.
- You may have a choice of shop. Check your policy and state rules.
- Rental coverage depends on your policy.
- Photo estimates can miss hidden damage.
- Deductibles apply according to your policy.
Local notes for the San Francisco Bay Area
In the Bay Area, tight parking and dense traffic contribute to many minor collisions, scrapes and bumper damage. California has its own rules about auto repair estimates and shop registration, and the state's Bureau of Automotive Repair is a resource for consumers.
We take inquiries from San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, Fremont, Walnut Creek.
Getting ready to reach out
- Describe whether the vehicle is drivable, and whether any warning lights, alignment changes or noises appeared after the damage.
- Mention whether the vehicle has driver-assistance features such as cameras, parking sensors or radar, since repairs near them may require calibration.
- Have your insurance claim number ready if you have filed one, along with the adjuster's contact details.
- Say whether you need a rental car or plan to rely on coverage for one.
- Take clear photos of the damage from several angles and distances, in good light, before anything is moved or repaired.
Red flags to watch for
- An estimate that is not itemized or that will not be put in writing.
- Offers to inflate damage or add unrelated work to an insurance claim.
- Pressure to sign over insurance payments before you have reviewed the estimate.
- No clear process for supplements when hidden damage is found after disassembly.
- Refusal to let you see the damage or the replaced parts.
Questions to ask a provider
- How long will approvals take?
- Can you walk me through the estimate?
- How will you keep me updated?
- What parts are listed on the estimate?
- Do you need anything from me to move forward?
Quick answers
- Should I get more than one estimate?
- Some people do, especially for larger repairs or when paying out of pocket.
- What is a supplement?
- A supplement is an update to the estimate when additional damage is discovered.
- Do I pay the deductible to the shop?
- Often yes, but procedures vary. Ask your shop and insurer.
Related topics
- Paint and Refinishing: How auto paint refinishing works, color matching, clear coat and questions to ask a body shop about paint work.
- Frame and Alignment: Frame and unibody straightening, wheel alignment after a collision, and questions to ask a body shop.
- Bumper Repair: Bumper cover repair versus replacement, hidden damage, sensors and questions to ask an auto body shop.