REPAIR AUTHORIZATION AGREEMENT
1. AUTHORIZATION FOR REPAIRS
I authorize Finesse Auto Body to perform all repairs listed on the estimate provided, plus any additional damage discovered during disassembly or repair process ("Supplemental Repairs"). I grant the Shop permission to operate my vehicle on streets/highways for testing, inspection, and delivery purposes.
2. PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY
I understand and agree that I am ultimately responsible for the full repair cost, regardless of insurance coverage.
This includes:
- My insurance deductible
- Any charges not covered by insurance (betterment, depreciation, upgrades)
- All Supplemental Repairs I authorize
Payment is due in full before vehicle release. Accepted methods: cash, certified check, credit/debit card, properly endorsed insurance draft.
3. PRICING & ESTIMATES
My repair bill may differ from my insurance company's estimate due to:
- Parts pricing (based on current software/market rates, subject to fluctuations)
- Labor rates (based on collision industry flat-rate standards, not actual time)
- Repair techniques (determined by Shop's professional judgment for safe, quality repairs)
- Additional damage discovered during repairs
Flat-Rate Hours: Labor charges use industry-standard flat-rate time units. Actual time spent may be more or less than flat-rate hours depending on damage severity and conditions.
4. DIRECTION TO PAY & ASSIGNMENT
If insurance is paying for repairs, I direct my insurance carrier to pay Finesse Auto Body directly. I assign all insurance proceeds for this claim to the Shop up to the full invoice amount. This assignment is irrevocable until paid in full. I authorize the Shop to negotiate all Supplemental Repairs directly with my insurance carrier on my behalf.
5. MECHANIC'S LIEN (N.J.S.A. 2A:44-43 et seq.)
I acknowledge the Shop has a statutory mechanic's lien on my vehicle to secure payment for all labor, parts, storage, and charges.
The Shop may:
- Retain my vehicle until paid in full
- Enforce the lien through sale/auction per New Jersey law if unpaid
No vehicle release until all charges are paid in full.
6. STORAGE CHARGES
After Completion: Storage begins 3 calendar days after Shop notifies me repairs are complete.
Insurance Delays: If insurance fails to provide estimate OR reach agreed price within 10 business days of vehicle arrival, storage begins from day of arrival.
Storage Rates:
- Inside: $125
- Outside: $75
Lien Enforcement: If unpaid 20 days after completion notice, Shop may commence auction process per NJ statute.
7. TOTAL LOSS / VEHICLE REMOVAL
If vehicle is declared total loss OR removed to another facility, I must pay before release:
- Estimate/teardown fees
- Administrative fees
- Storage from arrival date
- Any labor already performed
8. LIABILITY LIMITATIONS
The Shop is NOT responsible for:
- Personal items left in vehicle (electronics, valuables, tools, clothing, etc.)
- Loss/damage from fire, theft, vandalism, weather, or causes beyond Shop's control
- Pre-existing damage not related to current repairs
- Damage during sublet work (glass, mechanical, towing)
- Delays caused by insurance, parts suppliers, or other external factors
- Loss of use, rental car expenses, or consequential damages
⚠️ REMOVE ALL PERSONAL ITEMS BEFORE LEAVING YOUR VEHICLE.
9. ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS
I consent to receive repair updates via phone (including autodialed calls), text/SMS messages, and email. I may opt out anytime by replying STOP to texts or clicking unsubscribe in emails. Standard data rates apply.
My electronic signature has the same legal effect as handwritten signature.
10. DISPUTE RESOLUTION & GOVERNING LAW
Disputes will first attempt resolution through good-faith negotiation. This agreement is governed by New Jersey law. Any legal action must be brought in Bergen County, New Jersey courts.
CUSTOMER ACKNOWLEDGMENT
By signing below, I confirm:
- ✓ I have read and understand all terms
- ✓ I am responsible for full payment regardless of insurance
- ✓ I removed all personal items from my vehicle
- ✓ I understand the Shop's lien rights and storage charges
- ✓ I authorize repairs and accept pricing may differ from insurance estimate
- ✓ I received a copy of this agreement
IMPORTANT: This is your legal authorization to repair. Keep a copy for your records.
For questions: Contact Shop Manager at (201) 843-3132
New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs: 1-800-242-5846 | www.njconsumeraffairs.gov
