Body Shop Estimate Template

Accident damage rarely shows its full extent from the outside. A bumper hides crushed brackets and sensors, and a dented wing may have pushed the inner panel back. An estimate lets you give the customer, or their insurer, a working figure while being honest that the final cost depends on what strip-down reveals.

Estimate in stages: the visible repair first, then likely hidden items listed separately as possible additional work, each with an indicative price. Insurers and customers both find that easier to approve than a single uncertain total.

Agree how supplementary work will be authorised, whether by phone, by email with photos or through the insurer's engineer, and write it on the estimate. Then convert it to a firm quote or an invoice once the vehicle has been stripped and the damage is known.

What to include in a body shop estimate

• Your business details and the vehicle registration, make, model and paint code
• Customer and insurer details
• A short description of the damage and how it happened
• Visible repairs priced operation by operation
• Possible hidden damage listed separately with indicative prices
• Estimated paint and materials
• How supplementary work will be authorised
• A clear statement that this is an estimate, with a validity date and VAT

Download the template

Body shop estimate FAQs

Is a body shop estimate binding?

No. An estimate is a reasoned guide rather than a fixed price, and it should say so. You should still keep close to it and get authorisation before going significantly over.

How do I show possible hidden damage?

List it below the main repair as possible additional work, with an indicative price for each item, and say it will only be done if it is found and approved.

Can I charge for preparing an estimate?

Some body shops charge for detailed estimates, particularly for insurance or legal work, and refund the charge if the repair goes ahead. If you do, say so before you start and show the charge on the estimate.

More body shop templates

• Body shop quote template
• Body shop invoice template

Estimate templates for other motor trades

• Mechanic estimate template
• Car valeting estimate template