Get An Estimate?

• Since we have to take a specific set of photos for the insurer, this procedure requires the In-Person Written Estimate option below.
• Bring in any information the insurer gave you, such as claim number, control number, instructions, etc.  
• This procedure can take 15-30 minutes, and we prefer not do it when it's raining.
• We can schedule your repairs while you're here, or by phone or email later.

Insurance Estimates

When the insurer writes the estimate, there are several things you should know:

• You don't need a written estimate from us to show the insurance company when they inspect your car.
• Once an insurer prepares an estimate, logistics dictate that we use that estimate as a starting point for the repair cost.
• Most insurers write a low estimate to begin with, but they will tell you that after the car is under repair, the shop can submit a supplement estimate, so don't be concerned, because that's our job! Our repair process always includes negotiating with the insurer to make sure they allow us to restore your car to pre-accident condition to the highest degree possible.
• After you receive the insurance estimate, we need to get a copy before you bring your car in for repair.  If we haven't seen your car, we'd like you to stop by so we can review the damage along with the insurance estimate (no appointment necessary).
• You don't need a written estimate from us to schedule your work.  After you drop your car off, we'll first determine  exactly what's wrong, and then have the necessary cost approved by insurance-but before we proceed, we'll also email you an estimate for your review and authorization.

 There are basically three ways to get an insurance estimate:

1. You were asked to get an estimate from the insurer's approved body shop.
• It may seem like a waste of time to get an estimate from a shop you're not going to use, but some insurers still require this to initiate the claim.  If this request is inconvenient, then please call us...in some cases we can get it waived.
2. You were told an insurance adjuster will write an estimate on your car sometime before you bring your car in for repairs.
• This inspection may be done at your home, your work, a drive-in claims location, or even at our shop. We do not need an appointment for an "inspect-only", but we do prefer you to pick up your car sometime afterward that day.
3. After you drop you car off for repairs, an insurance adjuster will write an estimate with our guidance & recommendations.
• This is usually the most efficient method for everyone, but may not be offered by some insurers.

 If you want to schedule your repairs without visiting us first, select "I only need to Submit Information" below for instructions.

To save yourself time and effort, we highly recommend that you contact the insurance company to see which procedure they require before you run out and get an estimate.

Customer Pay

When insurance isn't involved, it's pretty simple: Take you pick from either an Online Estimate or an In-Person Estimate below.

Third Party Pay

When someone else is paying out-of-pocket for your repairs, there are several important considerations:

• Rental Car Expense
• If you need transportaion while we are repairing your car, then the responsible party is liable for a rental car, which is at least $30 per day.
• Hidden Damage
• As stated above, the estimate may increase once the car is dismantled.  It is not uncommon for a third party to change their mind about using insurance if that happens, and insurance companies see this happen often.
• Our Payment Policy
• Legally, we contract with you to repair your car, so we do not accept personal checks or credit cards from third parties.  Once an accurate cost of repair is determined, the best way to handle payment is either cash paid at the time you pick up the car, or a cashier's check to you or jointly to both you and Fender Mender, anytime before the repairs are completed.