The Repair Estimate
Fla. Stat. 559.905 — a written estimate over $150, and the $10 or 10 percent limit
In Florida, when repair work will cost a customer more than $150, the shop prepares a written estimate, including diagnostic work, before starting any diagnosis or repair, and presents a signed disclosure in which the customer chooses a written estimate, a dollar limit, or no written estimate.
- Whether the charge is a flat rate, an hourly rate, or both, and any charge for making the estimate.
- Any charge for shop supplies or waste removal, with the statement the section requires.
- Whether replaced parts should be saved for inspection or return.
- The daily storage charge after the customer is told the work is done, which may not accrue for a period of 3 working days after that notice.
The $10 or 10 percent limit. A shop may not charge more than the written estimate plus $10 or 10 percent, whichever is greater, but not to exceed $50, unless it promptly notified the customer of the additional work and its cost and the customer authorized it orally or in writing.
The car comes back. It is unlawful for a shop to keep a customer's vehicle because the customer refused to pay for unauthorized repairs, or for charges above the estimate in violation of the section.
Parts and the invoice. On request when authorizing the work, the customer may inspect removed parts, or have them returned if the shop has no warranty or exchange program. At completion, the customer receives an itemized invoice identifying any used, rebuilt or reconditioned parts and any guarantee.
| The assumption | What the law actually does |
|---|---|
| The assumptionThe bill can run any amount over the estimate | What the law actually doesNo more than $10 or 10 percent over, not to exceed $50, without authorization |
| The assumptionA shop can hold the car until a disputed bill is paid | What the law actually doesNot over unauthorized repairs or charges above the estimate |
Warranty disputes, insurance claims and a shop's lien for unpaid repairs are not all on this page. Whether a particular bill was lawful is a question for a licensed Florida attorney.
Sources for this section (3)
- Fla. Stat. 559.905 — Written motor vehicle repair estimate and disclosure statement required
- Fla. Stat. 559.909 — Notification of charges in excess of repair estimate; unlawful charges; refusal to return vehicle prohibited
- Fla. Stat. 559.911 — Invoice required of motor vehicle repair shop
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Florida attorney.