Law & Order

Washington State Bill to Exempt Restoration and Custom Shops From Written Estimate Requirement Approved by Legislature

A SEMA-supported bill to exempt restoration and custom shops from the requirement that they provide written estimates for the repair of any vehicle that qualifies for a “horseless carriage” or “collector vehicle” license plate, or is a “parts car,” “street rod” or “custom vehicle” was passed by the Washington State House of Representatives. It has already been approved by the Senate and now will be sent to Governor Chris Gregoire for her signature and enactment into law. 

Under a SEMA-drafted provision, the bill would allow restoration and custom shops to bill at least every two weeks on a time and materials basis. Shops would be able to accurately inform customers of actual costs and materials, removing vagueness associated with shops attempting to “guess” probable time for unique tasks and probable costs for unique and, in some cases, yet to be fabricated parts. 

For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.