Collision repairers across Ontario are responsible for performing repairs on the second most important commodity we own today (first being shelter, of course!) The lives of our family and friends depend on a licensed auto body repair technician's ability and expertise to repair damaged vehicles to manufacturer's specifications. Don't pass on the important decision of choosing a qualified collision repairer to perform your repair needs. The average driver in Ontario sustains accident related damages to their vehicle every five to seven years. To help make an informed decision on a collision repair facility of your choice, inquire of family and friends for referrals and then visit shops to look for signs of a quality run facility that guarantees safe repairs.
Not sure what to look for? Start at the front door!
Does the facility have a clean reputation area and courteous knowledgeable staff to answer all your questions? Do they operate utilizing an electronic estimating system? An electronic estimating system ensures steps in the preparation of an estimate won't be missed. And, contrary to popular belief it is not used to notify your auto carrier of your inquiry into accident related damages.
Does the facility offer a warranty on all repairs? Most reputable repair facilities, whether independents, franchise or dealership owned offer warranties on collision repairs for as long as you own your vehicle and even after changing auto insurance carriers.
Ask to have a tour of the facility to get a better idea of how your car will be handled in the event it requires collision repairs. Request to see proof of technician's trade license to ensure you and your family's safety is in the hands of experienced professionals.
Look for training certifications, community recognition awards and customer testimonials. If not readily available, ask to see proof of these items. Inquire on whether they belong to a provincial trade association and how they are keeping abreast of consumer and industry repair issues.
Most reputable repair facilities also offer yearly maintenance packages unrelated to collision repairs. Once you've decided on a collision repair service provider, record the information and check in with the facility periodically throughout the year to ensure they haven't relocated.
Safe Quality Repairers
Apprenticeship and Certification Act, 1998
ONTARIO REGULATION 565/99
Amended to O. Reg 67/05 RESTRICTED SKILL SETS
Auto Body and Collision Damage Repairer
3 (1) Each of the following skills is designated as a restricted skill set for the purpose of the Act.
- Engaging in the repair of motor vehicles, motor coaches, trucks or truck-trailers by repairing, reshaping, refitting and welding breaks in body panels, fenders and skirtings.
- Engaging in the repair of motor vehicles, motor coaches, trucks or truck-trailers by shrinking or stretching metal panels by heat treatment.
- Engaging in the repair of motor vehicles, motor coaches, trucks or truck-trailers by removing or replacing electrical, electronic and vacuum components.
- Engaging in the repair of motor vehicles, motor coaches, trucks or truck-trailers by repairing, removing, or replacing wiring harnesses, air-conditioning systems and water pumps
- Engaging in the repair of motor vehicles, motor coaches, trucks or truck-trailers by straightening and aligning frames and unibody assembles.
- Engaging in the repair of motor vehicles, motor coaches, trucks or truck-trailers by removing, replacing, or adjusting steering and suspension components.
- Engaging in the repair of motor vehicles, motor coaches, trucks or truck-trailers by aligning wheels. O Reg 565/99, s. 3 (1)
(2) For the purposes of sector 12 of the Act, the occupation of auto body and collision damage repairer is defined to include the restricted skill sets referred to in subsection (1) O. Reg. 565/99, s. 3 (2)
Auto Body Repairer
4 (1) Each of the following skills is designated as a restricted skill set for the purposes of the Act.
- Engaging in the repair of motor vehicles, motor coaches, trucks or truck-trailers by repairing, reshaping, refitting and welding breaks in body panels, fenders and skirtings.
- Engaging in the repair of motor vehicles, motor coaches, trucks or truck-trailers by shrinking or stretching metal panels by heat treatment O. Reg 565/99, s. 4 (*)
(2) For the purpose of section 12 of the Act, the occupation of auto body and collision damage repairer is defined to include the restricted skill sets referred to in subsection (1) O. Reg 565/99, s. 4 (2)
