Contact Us

VIRGINIA LAW NOTICE (Va. Code § 59.1-207.3): No repair work charges may exceed the written estimate by more than ten percent (10%) unless you authorize the additional work. For vehicles twenty-five (25) years or older, this threshold is twenty percent (20%).

Diagnostic & Disassembly Authorization

I authorize the Shop to perform necessary disassembly, teardown, diagnostic scanning, measurements, and inspections to accurately assess the full extent of damage and prepare a comprehensive repair estimate. I understand that:

• (a) Disassembly and diagnostic work may incur charges regardless of whether I proceed with repairs;
• (b) If I choose not to proceed with repairs after teardown, I am responsible for the cost of teardown/diagnostic work plus the cost of reassembly;
• (c) Certain components may be damaged during disassembly and may require replacement;
• (d) The Shop will provide a revised estimate following teardown if additional damage is discovered.

Supplemental Repairs and Hidden Damage

I understand that during the repair process, the Shop may discover additional damage not visible during the initial inspection ("hidden" or "supplemental" damage).

Customer Notification and Approval: The Shop agrees to notify me before proceeding with any supplemental repairs that would cause the total repair cost to exceed the original written estimate by more than ten percent (10%) [or twenty percent (20%) for vehicles 25 years or older].

Method of Authorization: I may authorize supplements and time extensions by phone, text, email, or electronic signature. I agree the Shop may rely on those approvals as binding instructions.

Direction to Pay / Limited Assignment

I hereby direct my insurance company to issue payment for covered repairs directly to Platinum Auto Body or jointly to the Shop and me. I assign to the Shop my right to receive insurance proceeds for the repairs actually performed, to the extent permitted by law and accepted by the insurer. This is not an assignment of the entire policy.

Authorization to Communicate with Insurer

I authorize Platinum Auto Body and its employees to:

• (a) Communicate with my insurer, its adjusters, appraisers, and representatives regarding this claim;
• (b) Provide photographs, repair documentation, estimates, supplements, and invoices to the insurer;
• (c) Negotiate repair procedures, parts, labor times, and rates with the insurer on my behalf;
• (d) Request and receive supplements for additional damage discovered during repairs;
• (e) Discuss claim status, coverage questions, and payment issues with the insurer.

I understand this authorization does not make the Shop my legal representative in any coverage dispute with the insurer.

IMPORTANT CUSTOMER ACKNOWLEDGMENT

I understand and agree that:

• (a) I remain primarily and ultimately responsible for payment of all repair charges regardless of insurance coverage, payment, or claim denial;
• (b) The Shop is not a party to my insurance contract and cannot guarantee what the insurer will or will not cover;
• (c) Insurance payment or approval does not relieve me of my payment obligation to the Shop;
• (d) If the insurer fails or refuses to pay all or part of the repair charges for any reason, I agree to pay the balance due upon completion of repairs;
• (e) Any dispute between me and my insurer is between me and the insurer and does not affect my obligation to pay the Shop.

Customer Responsibility for Non-Covered Items

I understand and agree that I am personally responsible for payment of the following:

• (a) Deductible: My policy deductible is due at the time of vehicle pickup;
• (b) Betterment/Depreciation: Any amounts deducted by the insurer for betterment, depreciation, or prior damage;
• (c) Non-Covered Items: Any repairs, parts, or services not covered under my policy;
• (d) Coverage Gaps: Any difference between the insurer's approved amount and the Shop's actual charges;
• (e) Denied Claims: The full repair cost if my claim is denied by the insurer for any reason.

VIRGINIA MECHANIC'S LIEN NOTICE - IMPORTANT STATUTORY NOTICE

Pursuant to Virginia Code § 46.2-644.02, the Shop has a lien on this vehicle for "just and reasonable charges" for repairs performed at the owner's or authorized person's request. The Shop may retain possession of the vehicle until such charges are paid.

LIEN LIMITATIONS:

• If the vehicle title shows an existing lien (such as a loan), the Shop's mechanic's lien is limited to $1,000.
• If no lien exists on the title, the Shop's lien may extend up to the fair market value of the vehicle.

ENFORCEMENT: If the repair invoice is not paid within ten (10) days after the due date, the Shop may enforce the lien by selling the vehicle at public auction in accordance with Virginia Code § 46.2-644.03.

Payment Terms

• Payment Due: Full payment is due upon completion of repairs and before release of the vehicle.
• Accepted Payment Methods: Cash, Check, Credit Card, Debit Card, Insurance Draft
• Returned Check Fee: $35.00 for any check returned for insufficient funds.
• Late Payment Interest: 6% per annum (Virginia legal rate per Va. Code § 6.2-301)
• Late Payment Fee: Up to 5% if payment not received within 7 days (per Va. Code § 6.2-400)
• Collection Costs: I agree to pay all reasonable costs of collection, including court costs and attorney's fees.

Storage Fee Authorization

Storage fees will accrue under the following circumstances:

• (a) Post-Completion Storage: If I fail to pick up the vehicle within three (3) business days after notification that repairs are complete, storage fees of $50.00 per day will begin to accrue;
• (b) Repair Delay Storage: If repairs are delayed at my request or due to my failure to authorize necessary work, storage fees of $50.00 per day may apply;
• (c) Insurance Delay: If repairs are delayed awaiting insurance approval or payment and the delay exceeds five (5) business days, storage fees may apply.

Virginia Storage Lien: Per Va. Code § 46.2-644.01, the Shop has a lien for reasonable storage charges up to $500 if there is an existing lien on the vehicle, or up to the vehicle's fair market value if no lien exists.

Disclosure of Parts Types

The following types of parts may be used in the repair of your vehicle:

• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts: Parts made by or for the vehicle manufacturer.
• Aftermarket Parts: Parts made by companies other than the vehicle manufacturer.
• Recycled/Salvage/Used Parts: Parts removed from other vehicles.
• Reconditioned/Remanufactured Parts: Used parts that have been restored to serviceable condition.

Virginia Right to OEM Parts (Va. Code § 38.2-517): No insurer may require you to use non-OEM parts. You have the right to request OEM parts; however, you may be responsible for any cost difference between OEM and aftermarket parts if your insurer does not cover the full cost.

Parts Warranties

• OEM Parts: Warranted by the vehicle or parts manufacturer per their warranty terms.
• Aftermarket Parts: Warranted by the aftermarket manufacturer (typically 1-5 years).
• Recycled Parts: Limited or no warranty (typically 30-90 days, if any).

The Shop does not provide warranties on parts beyond the manufacturer's warranty unless specifically stated in writing.

Return of Replaced Parts – Virginia Statutory Requirement

Virginia Law Notice (Va. Code § 59.1-207.4): The Shop is required to offer you the return of any parts removed from your vehicle during repairs, except:

• Parts required to be returned to a manufacturer or distributor under warranty;
• Parts subject to a core charge or trade-in agreement.

I understand that I retain the right to inspect replaced parts even if I decline to take custody of them.

NOTICE REGARDING ABANDONED VEHICLES

If this vehicle is left at the Shop and the owner fails to pay for repairs or reclaim the vehicle within the time periods provided by Virginia law, the vehicle may be deemed abandoned and disposed of pursuant to Virginia Code Chapter 12, Title 46.2 (§§ 46.2-1200 et seq.).

MECHANIC'S AND STORAGE LIEN ENFORCEMENT: If the repair invoice is not paid within ten (10) days after the due date, the Shop may enforce its mechanic's or storage lien by selling the vehicle at public auction pursuant to Virginia Code § 46.2-644.03.

Timeline

• Invoice Due Date: Upon completion of repairs
• Grace Period: 10 days after due date
• After Grace Period: Shop may begin lien enforcement process
• Required Notice: Certified mail to owner and all lienholders of record
• DMV Notice: DMV sends certified-mail notice; owner/lienholder has 15 days to reclaim
• Public Auction: Conducted at least 21 days after notification

STORAGE FEES: Storage fees of $50.00 per day will continue to accrue during this entire period.

Pre-Existing Damage Acknowledgment

I acknowledge that the vehicle may have pre-existing damage, defects, or conditions unrelated to the repairs being performed. The Shop is not responsible for:

• (a) Pre-existing damage, rust, corrosion, or deterioration;
• (b) Latent defects or mechanical problems not caused by the accident;
• (c) Normal wear and tear;
• (d) Damage that becomes apparent only after repairs are completed if such damage existed prior to arrival.

PERSONAL PROPERTY DISCLAIMER

IMPORTANT: Please remove all personal property and valuables from your vehicle before leaving it for repairs.

THE SHOP IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOSS OF, THEFT OF, OR DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY LEFT IN THE VEHICLE, including but not limited to: cash, jewelry, electronics, tools, car seats, sporting equipment, documents, or any other items. Any items left in the vehicle are left at the Customer's sole risk.

Delay Disclaimer

The Shop provides estimated completion times in good faith but cannot guarantee completion dates. The Shop is not responsible for delays caused by:

• (a) Parts unavailability, backordered parts, or shipping delays;
• (b) Insurance company delays in approving supplements, inspections, or payments;
• (c) Discovery of hidden damage requiring additional repairs;
• (d) Customer decisions or failures to authorize necessary work;
• (e) Circumstances beyond the Shop's reasonable control.

Force Majeure: The Shop is not liable for delays caused by acts of God, natural disasters, pandemics, government actions, supply chain disruptions, labor disputes, or other events beyond the Shop's control.

Sublet/Outsourced Work Authorization

I authorize the Shop to sublet or outsource the following types of specialty work to qualified third-party vendors as needed:

• Frame/structural straightening
• Glass replacement
• ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) calibration
• Mechanical repairs
• Wheel alignment
• Airbag/restraint system work
• Upholstery/interior repairs
• Towing services

I understand that the Shop's warranty does not extend to work performed by sublet vendors, which will be covered by those vendors' own warranties.

ADAS Calibration Disclosure

ADVANCED DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS (ADAS) NOTICE: Many modern vehicles are equipped with ADAS features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and other safety systems. I acknowledge that:

• (a) ADAS calibration may be required after windshield replacement, suspension work, wheel alignment, or body repairs;
• (b) Failure to properly calibrate ADAS can result in system malfunction and potential safety hazards;
• (c) ADAS calibration is typically a separate charge and may or may not be covered by insurance;
• (d) The Shop will inform me if ADAS calibration is recommended or required;
• (e) If I decline recommended ADAS calibration, I accept full responsibility for any consequences.

Platinum Lifetime Workmanship Warranty

Platinum Auto Body warrants its workmanship on collision repairs for as long as you own the vehicle. This warranty covers defects in the Shop's workmanship only.

COVERED:

• Paint peeling, cracking, or fading due to application defects (not environmental factors)
• Body panel gaps or misalignment caused by improper installation
• Welds and structural repairs performed by the Shop
• Proper fitment of parts installed by the Shop

NOT COVERED:

• Parts defects (covered by parts manufacturer warranty)
• Damage from subsequent accidents, abuse, or neglect
• Environmental damage (acid rain, road salt, bird droppings, tree sap)
• Normal wear and tear
• Chips, scratches, or damage occurring after repairs
• Sublet work (covered by sublet vendor's warranty)
• Pre-existing damage or conditions
• Mechanical components not repaired by the Shop

Warranty Claim Procedure

1. Contact the Shop at the location where repairs were performed
2. Provide your original repair order number
3. Describe the issue in detail
4. Bring the vehicle to the Shop for inspection
5. The Shop will determine if the issue is covered under warranty
6. Warranty repairs will be performed at no charge if covered

WARRANTY VOIDING CONDITIONS

The warranty is void if:

• The vehicle has been in another accident affecting the repaired area
• Repairs have been performed by others on the warrantied work
• The vehicle has been used for racing, off-road, or commercial purposes
• Damage results from improper maintenance, abuse, or neglect
• Paint damage results from failure to follow care instructions

CUSTOMER RIGHTS - Under Virginia Law (Va. Code § 59.1-207.3)

• You have the right to receive a written estimate, for a fee not to exceed $25.00, containing the estimated cost of labor and parts, a description of the work, and estimated completion time.
• No repair work charge may exceed the written estimate by more than 10 percent unless the additional work has been authorized by you.
• The repair facility shall offer to return all replaced parts except warranty, core charge, or trade-in parts required to be returned to a manufacturer or distributor.
• Any complaints can be made to the Division of Consumer Counsel of the Department of Law.

Virginia Consumer Protection Act Compliance

The Shop agrees not to engage in any practices prohibited by the Virginia Consumer Protection Act (Va. Code § 59.1-196 et seq.), including:

• Misrepresenting the need for repairs or parts
• Charging for repairs not performed
• Using deceptive acts or practices
• Making false claims about qualifications or certifications
• Failing to honor warranty obligations

Privacy Notice

The Shop collects personal information to process your repair order, communicate with you about repairs, process insurance claims on your behalf, and comply with legal requirements. We may share your information with your insurance company, parts suppliers, sublet vendors, and law enforcement (if legally required). We do not sell your personal information to third parties for marketing purposes.

Photography Authorization

I authorize the Shop to photograph the vehicle before, during, and after repairs for: documenting vehicle condition upon arrival, recording damage for repair planning, creating records for insurance claims, documenting repair progress and quality, and creating records for warranty purposes. This authorization is required for the Shop to perform repairs.

Payment Before Release

I understand that the vehicle will not be released until all of the following are satisfied:

• (a) Full payment of repair charges (or approved financing/payment arrangement)
• (b) Payment of any applicable deductible
• (c) Payment of any storage fees
• (d) Receipt of insurance payment (or Customer pays balance)
• (e) Customer or authorized person signs the release form

Test Drive Authorization

I authorize the Shop and its employees to operate the vehicle as reasonably necessary for:

• (a) Moving the vehicle within and around the repair facility
• (b) Road testing to verify proper repair completion
• (c) Transporting the vehicle to and from sublet vendors

The Shop maintains garage keepers liability insurance for vehicles in its care. However, the Customer's own insurance is primary for any damage occurring during authorized operation of the vehicle.

Rental Car Coverage Notice

I understand that:

• (a) Rental car/replacement transportation coverage depends on my insurance policy;
• (b) The Shop does not provide rental cars and is not responsible for arranging or paying for rental vehicles;
• (c) Rental coverage limits (daily rate and total days) are determined by my insurance policy;
• (d) If my insurance claim is denied or if rental expenses exceed my coverage, I am responsible for rental costs;
• (e) If repairs are delayed for reasons outside the Shop's control, additional rental expenses are my responsibility;
• (f) I should contact my insurance company directly regarding rental car coverage and arrangements.

Loss of Use

I understand that the Shop is not responsible for loss of use of the vehicle during repairs except where delays are solely caused by the Shop's negligence. The Shop is not liable for:

• Lost wages or income
• Transportation expenses
• Inconvenience
• Any consequential damages arising from loss of use of the vehicle

Electronic Signature Consent

By signing this form electronically, I agree that:

• (a) My electronic signature has the same legal validity, force, and effect as a handwritten signature pursuant to the Virginia Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (Va. Code § 59.1-479 et seq.) and the federal Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (E-SIGN Act, 15 U.S.C. § 7001 et seq.);
• (b) I intend my electronic signature to be binding on me and to signify my agreement to all terms of this document;
• (c) I agree to conduct this transaction electronically;
• (d) I have the ability to access and retain a copy of this electronically signed document;
• (e) I may withdraw this consent at any time by providing written notice, but withdrawal does not affect the validity of documents already signed.

Consent to Electronic Communications

I consent to receive repair status updates, estimates and supplements, invoices and payment requests, appointment reminders, and vehicle pickup notifications via phone, text, or email. I understand that standard text/data rates may apply and that I may opt out of text communications at any time by replying STOP.

CUSTOMER ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND SIGNATURE

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to all terms and conditions in this Vehicle Repair Authorization & Service Agreement, including:

Section 1: Repair Authorization & Scope of Work | Section 2: Insurance Claim Authorization | Section 3: Payment Terms & Mechanic's Lien | Section 4: Parts Authorization | Section 5: Storage & Abandonment | Section 6: Liability Limitations | Section 7: Warranty Disclosure | Section 8: Virginia-Specific Requirements | Section 9: Vehicle Release Authorization | Section 10: Rental Car/Transportation | Section 11: Electronic Signature Consent