Auto Insurance Claims: body work- estimate vs. what my insurance co. will pay, insurance estimate, repair estimate

Question
Richard: I was given estimates by two body shops for damages that were
$5,700 and $4,900, respectively.  The adjustor from my insurance company
made his own, separate estimate, then mailed me a check for that amount:
$3,100.  Will this company, Farmers, then make up the difference in what this
repair will atually cost?  Or do they expect that I will do so-- which I shouldn't
have to do.

Thanks very much,
Peter

Answer
Hi Peter,

A difference in repair estimate amounts generally is due to different items on the estimates. The part prices are all standard as are the labor rates. The insurance companies estimate is likely lower to to not being as complete an estimate as the body shop. In addition, the insurance company likely specified the use of aftermarket and/or salvage parts in their estimate.

You should select the body shop of your choice and put the vehicle in for the repairs. Give them a copy of the insurance estimate. The body shop will then contact the insurance estimator to show him/her the additional damage and have them write a supplemental estimate. The insurance company will then issue additional checks directly to the body shop.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh