Repair-shop disputes generally come down to the same things: the written estimate, what was actually authorized, and the final invoice. Organize those facts and get a free letter outline; the full demand letter is in the $39 Case Pack.
| Estimate required | on_request |
|---|---|
| Threshold | Not specified |
| Authorization to exceed estimate | written |
| Cap on overage | Not specified |
| Citation | Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 10, Chapter 219 (Motor Vehicle Repair Law), circa Sections 1471-1479 |
Source: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 10, Chapter 219 (Motor Vehicle Repair Law), circa Sections 1471-1479
Maine's Motor Vehicle Repair Law does not impose an automatic statutory overage percentage. Instead, if a customer requests an estimate, the repair facility must provide one, and the customer is not obligated to pay any charge unless they specifically agree to it (orally or in writing) before the work is done. Distinctively, Maine gives the CONSUMER the right to set their OWN written price ceiling by leaving a signed note stating the maximum they are willing to pay - if the shop exceeds that customer-set cap without first getting approval, the customer is not liable for the excess. A repair shop may charge a reasonable, disclosed hourly fee for preparing the estimate itself, if the customer agrees to the rate beforehand.
Wherewithal is an organizational tool only. Not legal advice. Consider consulting a licensed attorney.