General consumer information
Consumer Checklist for Mobile Auto Body Repairs
This checklist is general consumer information and is not a legal conclusion about any provider.
Before work begins
- Check the business through applicable official state resources.
- Ask for the business's legal name and registration information.
- Obtain a written estimate.
- Confirm the precise panels and damage included in the work.
- Confirm the total price, materials, paint process, and payment schedule.
- Ask what happens if the repair does not match the agreed scope.
- Obtain written warranty or corrective-work terms.
- Photograph every affected area in consistent lighting.
During and immediately after the work
- Remain available while the work is performed when practical.
- Inspect the vehicle from several angles and under good lighting.
- Compare the result to the original photographs.
- Record any remaining concern before making final payment.
- Obtain a written invoice or receipt.
- Avoid relying only on verbal promises.
If a dispute develops
- Report the concern promptly and in writing.
- Send clear, dated photographs.
- Propose specific inspection dates.
- Preserve the complete message chain.
- Save advertisements and payment records.
- Obtain an independent written repair assessment.
- Use official complaint or court procedures when appropriate.
- Avoid insults, threats, repeated unwanted contact, or online speculation about motive.
What a bad repair job feels like
These are original cartoon illustrations drawn for this page. They are humor, not evidence: they do not depict any real person, business, vehicle, or repair, and they are not photographs of the work described elsewhere on this site.
