Bender:
Here's the info from the Florida Office of Consumer Protection regarding auto repairs - -there's a point of contact at the end - -Hillsborough County also has their own agency. Good luck
CQRT in AZ
The Florida Motor Vehicle Repair Act requires anyone who, for compensation, engages in the repair of motor vehicles owned by other persons, to register biennially with the Department.
Florida Laws
Chapter 559, Florida Statutes (F.S.)
Chapter 5J-12, Florida Administrative Code
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How is repair work authorized?
By the customer's signature. However, the customer may be advised of the estimate by other means: telephone, fax, mail, etc., but you should note on the work order all specifics of the notification and authorization to protect yourself in the event of a claim. (F.S. 559.901(1))
2. What should I do with the signed paper?
Always give the customer a copy of any document requiring their signature. Keep a copy for your records. (F.S. 559.905(1), 559.911, 559.920(12))
3. How long do I have to keep records of my business?
One year. (F.S. 559.915)
4. Can work be done in excess of the work listed on the written estimate/work order?
You may not exceed the amount of the written estimate by more than $10 or 10 percent, whichever is greater, but not to exceed $50 without the written or oral consent of the customer. It is suggested that specific notes of the additional authorization be added to the written estimate/work order. (F.S. 559.909(1)(b))
5. When does the customer get the invoice?
When the work is finished or when the customer cancels any work order or declines to have the work done and you have charged diagnostic fees. (F.S. 559.911)
6. What must be on the invoice?
The invoice may be provided on the same form as the written repair estimate.
The current date and odometer reading of the motor vehicle.
A statement indicating what was done to correct the problem or a description of the service provided.
An itemized description of all labor, parts, and merchandise supplied and the costs of the merchandise. Any items or merchandise provided with the repair at no cost, or reduced cost, to the customer must also be listed.
A statement identifying any replacement parts as being used, rebuilt, or reconditioned as the case may be.
A statement indicating what, if anything, is guaranteed with the repair and the time and/or mileage period for which the guarantee is good.
The registration number from the certificate issued by the Department identifying your shop. (F.S. 559.911)
7. What if I have torn down the vehicle and discover the written estimate will not cover the cost of the repair?
The customer must be immediately notified and authorization obtained to continue the repairs. If the authorization is not given, you must "expeditiously" reassemble the vehicle in a condition reasonably similar to the condition in which it was received, UNLESS the customer waives reassembly or the reassembled vehicle would be unsafe. (F.S. 559.909(2))
Division of Consumer Services
Contact
If you have any questions, please contact:
Dave Skelton
E-mail
skeltod@doacs.state.fl.us
2005 Apalachee Parkway
Tallahassee, Florida 32399
Phone: (850)410-3770
Fax: (850)410-3804
Map to the office
