Can a Shop Be Productive Doing Combo Work?
Can a shop be productive doing combination work? I recently took over a shop where each car is repaired, painted and detailed by the same technician, and they’re not open to change. My first question would be, “Why are you considering a change?” Are your Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) good? Is the shop generating a
What Are the Rules/Laws When It Comes to Insurers Refusing to Pay Rental Coverage?
What are the rules/laws when it comes to insurers not wanting to pay for rental coverage for their insureds? I’m getting frustrated with the adjuster calling my customers first if there is an issue or concern.
How Can I Get an Insurer to Pay My Door Rates?
How can my shop build an authorization and go after an insurance company that refuses to pay our door rates?
Paint and Material Allowances Part II
A reader recently wrote in to ask what materials are included in the paint and material allowance on insurance estimates. Consultant Hank Nunn has provided a second answer.
How Should I Pay My Team?
I have a combo tech and two young vo-tech grads working together in my shop. What is a fair pay plan for all three?
How Do You Determine Whether an Insurer or Shop Is Responsible for Fraud?
I recently conducted a post-repair inspection and found a quarter panel was repaired and not replaced, contrary to the “replace rear quarter” line on the estimate, by a GEICO shop. Did GEICO steal from the customer or did the shop?
How Do I Get an Insurer to Pay for Storage and Tow?
We have a car that is a total loss, but Mercury Insurance does not want to pay for the storage charges and the tow and is saying that we need to address this with the vehicle owner. What can I do?
New California Compensation Law?
Is there a new California law that states all body men and mechanics are required to use a timecard?
Getting Paid
What are the procedures I need to take from the time of write-up to vehicle completion to ensure I get paid?
Do Shops Have a Legal Obligation to Check Related Systems for Damage?
In a front-end accident where there is front bumper and frame damage visible, are body shops required to check the radiator for leaks with a pressure test? If they didn’t, what problems can occur afterward? Are body shops required to have certified mechanics on site to guarantee the work for auto insurance company claims?