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 | none |
|---|---|
| Threshold | Not specified |
| Authorization to exceed estimate | written_or_oral |
| Cap on overage | Not specified |
| Citation | 37 Pa. Code Chapter 301 (Automotive Industry Trade Practices), Section 301.5 |
Source: 37 Pa. Code Chapter 301 (Automotive Industry Trade Practices), Section 301.5
Pennsylvania's Automotive Industry Trade Practices Regulations require a repair shop to obtain the customer's written or oral authorization before charging for repairs. If the shop cannot determine the specific repairs or costs when the vehicle is dropped off, the customer must be given a choice: (a) wait until the shop identifies the exact repairs and price, then authorize before anything is done; (b) let the shop begin work but require authorization before exceeding a price the CUSTOMER specifies in advance (a customer-set ceiling, similar in structure to Maine and Idaho, rather than a fixed statutory percentage); or (c) authorize repair of the described problem without any price limit, as long as the customer is told the hourly labor rate first. The shop must disclose whether parts are new, used, or reconditioned, disclose any estimate or storage charges in advance, and complete repairs within the agreed timeframe (or 24 hours of delivery if no time was specified).
Wherewithal is an organizational tool only. Not legal advice. Consider consulting a licensed attorney.