Contractors and Repair Shops in Delaware
Licensing, written contracts, deposits and estimates for home improvement contractors and auto repair shops in Delaware.
Short answer: Before starting work, an auto repair shop must give the customer a written statement with the estimated completion date, the estimated price for parts and labor, and any estimated surcharge, unless the customer waives a written estimate, in which case the shop must give an oral estimate… 6 Del. C. §§ 4904A, 4906A, 4907A (Auto Repair Fraud Prevention)
| Auto repair rules | Before starting work, an auto repair shop must give the customer a written statement with the estimated completion date, the estimated price for parts and labor, and any estimated surcharge, unless the customer waives a written estimate, in which case the shop must give an oral estimate and keep a signed written record. The shop may not charge more than the estimate by 20% or $50, whichever is less, without the customer's consent, and may not charge for repairs the customer did not authorize. The shop must offer to return replaced parts, except parts returned to the manufacturer and hazardous or recyclable items. Re-verified 2026-10-27. |
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Where to get help in Delaware
- Delaware Department of Justice, Consumer Protection Unit (Fraud and Consumer Protection Division)
- File a complaint or claim
More Delaware consumer protection
- The Lemon Law in Delaware
- Your Right to Cancel a Purchase in Delaware
- Filing a Consumer Complaint in Delaware
- All Delaware consumer protection rules
FAQ
What are your rights with an auto repair shop in Delaware?
Before starting work, an auto repair shop must give the customer a written statement with the estimated completion date, the estimated price for parts and labor, and any estimated surcharge, unless the customer waives a written estimate, in which case the shop must give an oral estimate and keep a signed written record. The shop may not charge more than the estimate by 20% or $50, whichever is less, without the customer's consent, and may not charge for repairs the customer did not authorize. The shop must offer to return replaced parts, except parts returned to the manufacturer and hazardous or recyclable items.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.