Current through 2024 Legislative Session Act Chapter 531
Section 4904A - Estimate requirements for auto repair work(a) Written estimate and authorization requirements. -- Unless waived pursuant to subsection (b) of this section by the customer or by a person the auto repair facility reasonably believes is acting on the customer's behalf, the automotive repair facility shall, before beginning any auto repair work and/or transmission repair diagnosis on a motor vehicle, give the customer a written statement which contains: (1) The estimated completion date;(2) The estimated price for the auto repair work including parts and labor; and(3) The estimated surcharge, if any.(b) Oral estimates and authorization. -- If a customer or a person the auto repair facility reasonably believes is acting on the customer's behalf, waives his or her right to a written estimate, the automotive repair facility shall orally provide to the customer or a person the automotive repair facility reasonably believes to be acting on a customer's behalf the estimated price and completion date before beginning any auto repair work; provided however, that the person giving the oral estimate shall make a written record of the requirements set forth in subsections (a)(1) through (3) of this section, sign or initial the written document and retain such document for a period of no less than 2 years.(c) Prohibited charges. -- An automotive repair facility shall not charge a customer without the consent of the customer or a person the automotive repair facility reasonably believes is acting on behalf of the customer any amount which exceeds the estimate by 20% or $50, whichever is less. Any charges which exceed 20% or $50, whichever is less, must comply with the requirements of subsections (a) and (b) of this section. 70 Del. Laws, c. 428, § 2; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, § 1.;