What this checklist covers
The Collision Damage Estimation Checklist is a 15-point scorecard for damage assessment, labour estimation, parts identification, paint materials, hidden damage review, and customer communication. Each criterion is scored from 1 to 5 on what the auditor sees on the day, and every gap goes into an action plan with an owner and a close date.
AutoSmart tip: Collision damage estimation is both a technical and a commercial process. The most common audit finding is parts identification gaps — items that are on the vehicle and clearly need replacing but were not captured in the initial estimate, leading to supplementary claims that delay the repair and frustrate the insurer. A thorough dismantling-stage review before submitting the estimate (where timescale allows) prevents most supplementary claim submissions.
The checks
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Damage assessment and labour estimation
- Is the damage assessment conducted by a trained estimator using the correct assessment methodology — covering all affected panels, glass, lights, structure, and mechanical systems — not limited to visible external damage only?
- Is labour time estimated using an industry- standard labour time guide (e.g., Audatex, GT Motive, Solera), not based on estimator recollection or workshop preference?
- Is the labour time estimate appropriate for the specific repair method required — distinguishing between replace, repair, and blend operations — with each operation coded and timed separately?
- Is the estimate reviewed by the Bodyshop Manager or senior estimator before submission to the insurer, confirming accuracy and completeness?
Parts identification and paint materials
- Are all required parts identified and listed in the estimate with correct part numbers, supplier source, and unit pricing — with no generic part descriptions or approximate costs?
- Are paint materials estimated using a recognised paint material calculation system (paint system supplier calculator, insurer- approved method), not estimated as a fixed percentage of labour?
- Is the parts source identified in the estimate — distinguishing between OEM, OEM-equivalent, aftermarket, and reconditioned parts — with insurer approval obtained for any non-OEM parts before ordering?
- Are salvage values for significantly damaged parts (total losses, write-offs on major assemblies) applied correctly in the estimate where the insurer's assessment framework requires it?
Hidden damage review
- Is the estimate explicitly noted as a visible damage estimate only, with a supplementary process in place for additional damage discovered during dismantling?
- Are areas of high hidden damage probability (impact-side suspension, steering, fuel tank proximity, ADAS sensor mounting) flagged in the estimate for inspection once dismantling begins?
- Is the insurer notified immediately when supplementary damage is identified during dismantling — with a revised estimate submitted and approval obtained before additional repair work begins?
Insurance approval and customer communication
- Is the estimate submitted to the insurer within the timeframe required by the approved repairer agreement or the customer's policy terms?
- Is the customer kept informed of estimate submission, insurer response, and any approved or disputed amounts — not left to contact the bodyshop for a status update?
- Are insurer-required amendments to the estimate reviewed for technical acceptability before acceptance — with the Bodyshop Manager escalating any amendment that would result in a substandard repair?
- Is estimate accuracy tracked retrospectively — comparing submitted estimates against final invoices — to identify systematic over- or under- estimation and improve future estimate quality?
How to run it
How the scoring works
Before the visit, fill in the dealer or centre, the auditor, the date and the audit cycle. Then score each of the 15 checks from 1 to 5 on what you see on the day, not on what the site aims for, and add them up out of 75.
- 1Not in place
- 2Attempted
- 3Defined
- 4Managed
- 5Fully sustained
- Green60–75 · 80–100%Compliant. Keep the standard.
- Amber38–59 · 50–79%Improvement needed: a structured action plan within 30 days.
- Red0–37 · Below 50%Priority intervention, escalated to regional management.
Then close every gap
Each gap goes into the action plan tracker and moves through four stages until the auditor closes it.
- 1PendingOwner and close date set
- 2In progressWork under way, evidence gathered
- 3CompletedEvidence submitted for review
- 4ApprovedVerified and closed by the auditor
