Reference

Repair Standards & Best Practices

What constitutes proper collision repair? This reference guide explains documentation standards, process expectations, and quality indicators that inform good repair outcomes.

What a Proper Repair Quote Includes

A complete repair quote allows you to understand exactly what work will be done and at what cost. It should include:

  • Itemised parts list

    Each replacement part listed with part number and indication of whether it's OEM (original) or aftermarket

  • Labour breakdown

    Hours allocated per operation (remove and replace, panel work, paint preparation, painting)

  • Paint and materials

    Paint system, clear coat, primers, and consumables with costs specified

  • Sublet operations

    Any work sent to specialists (ADAS calibration, wheel alignment, glass replacement, mechanical work)

  • Timeframe and warranty

    Estimated completion date and workmanship guarantee terms

Standard Repair Process

1

Vehicle receipt and documentation

Photographs of existing damage, mileage recording, and customer belongings inventory

2

Damage assessment

Detailed inspection, hidden damage identification, and scope confirmation with assessor if insurance-funded

3

Parts ordering

Parts sourced per quote specifications (OEM or approved alternatives)

4

Disassembly and preparation

Damaged components removed, repair surfaces prepared

5

Structural work (if applicable)

Frame alignment and structural repairs with documented measurements

6

Panel work

Panel replacement or repair, welding, and fitting

7

Paint preparation and painting

Primer, base coat, clear coat applied in controlled spray booth environment

8

Reassembly

Components refitted, gaps and alignment checked

9

Calibration and testing

ADAS calibration, wheel alignment, safety system checks as required

10

Quality inspection and handover

Final inspection, cleaning, documentation preparation, and customer walkthrough

Signs of Quality Repair

Paint finish

Consistent colour match, no orange peel texture, no runs or sags, proper blending into adjacent panels

Panel alignment

Even gaps between panels, doors/boot/bonnet open and close smoothly, no visible misalignment

Surface quality

No visible filler marks, no waviness when viewed at an angle, no dust or debris under clear coat

Functional systems

All lights, sensors, and safety systems working correctly, no warning lights on dashboard

Documentation You Should Receive

  • Detailed final invoice matching authorised scope
  • Before and after photographs of the repair
  • Written workmanship warranty (typical: 1-5 years)
  • ADAS calibration certificate (if applicable)
  • Wheel alignment printout (if wheels removed or structural work done)
  • Paint warranty card (for paint system warranty)

What Repairers Should Not Promise

  • ×Guaranteed completion dates before full damage assessment
  • ×Fixed quotes without physically inspecting the vehicle
  • ×Insurance approval on behalf of the insurer
  • ×OEM parts if the quote specifies aftermarket
  • ×Invisible repairs for significant structural damage

If Something Goes Wrong

If you're unsatisfied with repair quality or have a dispute:

  1. Raise concerns with the workshop directly — document the issues in writing with photographs
  2. Contact your insurer (if insurance-funded) — they may facilitate resolution or appoint an assessor
  3. Industry bodies — RMI or SAMBRA members are subject to codes of conduct
  4. Consumer Commission — for unresolved consumer complaints
  5. Small Claims Court — for financial disputes under the threshold

Related Resources

Structural vs Cosmetic Repairs

Understand the difference and why it matters for safety

ADAS Calibration Explained

Why modern vehicles need sensor recalibration after repairs

Before Authorising Repairs

Checklist of what to verify before signing off

How We List Workshops

Our transparency standards for directory listings

Find a panel beater

Browse our directory to compare repairers in your area.

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Last reviewed: February 2026