The role of the Appraiser/Estimator is to provide a detailed estimate to repair a vehicle post collision. The estimator is responsible to many stakeholders. The estimator must have a professional demeanor to work with customers, insurers, vendors, and other team members of the repair facility. The estimator must instill confidence in the customer and provide clear expectations. The estimator must understand the effect of collision to a vehicle and highlight damages. The detailed estimate must include factory researched repair specifications and adhere to shop policies and insurer guidelines where applicable.
Primary Objectives of the role
- Set reasonable expectations for the customer, and educate them on the repair process
- Have thorough understanding of estimating software, required to process estimates.
- Locating assignments from insurers and understanding the requirements. Understanding terms on assignment – LOU-Loss of use, WP- With prejudice, 43endorsement, betterment, deductible.
- Inspect vehicles throughout the repair process for quality control to ensure the entire repair is completed to client, Insurance and OEM standards.
- Gather additional information that may be required from the insured.
- View vehicle with customer to highlight accident replated damage, and previous damage non claim related.
- Photograph vehicle damages as per shop policy and insurer requirement. Ensuring photos are high quality.
- Determine if a vehicle is drivable or non-drivable
- Determine if a vehicle requires disassembly for an accurate estimate.
- Write detailed estimates that capture all claims related damage, and research repair to ensure OEM standards and procedures are followed.
- Control costs for the insurer, by selecting repair first where possible and safe, then effectively source parts according to guidelines and shop policies. Quoting sublets.
- DATA- Ensure proper dates are inputted in the estimating systems- real time dates.
- Ensure correct rate profiles are selected.
- Communication – ensure the claim and important details are communicated to the insurer and customer. For example, when a vehicle is scheduled, or any delays.
- Parts- ensure you are selecting the appropriate part for the repair, and confirm model/trim level, price and availability.
- Schedule sublets.
- Ensure all invoices (parts, sublet, rental towing) are added to the file as per insurer guidelines. Also, management system for ease of tracking.
- Keep estimates accurate throughout the repair process with supplements, part price changes, and any additional communications to insurer required.
- Upload and monitor claims for approval.
- Sell customer pay/ third party pay estimates Goal keep a batting average at 80% or higher.
- Send final supplement/final bills to insurer for approval Goal 48 hours post-delivery where possible.
- Ensure final authorization is noted in management system, and final amounts match – for proper closing of file in management system.
- Quality Control, ensure the final product is ready for delivery to the customer.
- Deliver vehicle to customer, explain repair where required.
Requirements
- Up to date Compliance Training, such as AODA, WHMIS, Worker Health and safety Awareness and Workplace Violence and Harassment) and knowledge of Information Security PIPEDA
- Utilize Mitchell Connect and Audatex software. Any other software, please add all that may be applicable.
- At least 3 to 5 years of experience working as a Collision Estimator
- At least 5 years’ experience with Mitchell Connect and Audatex at a proficiency level. (Add any other softweare that may be applicable to this role such as Mitchell UltraMate, Mitchell Connect, Mitchell Tech Advisor, OEM Repair.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software applications.
- Valid Driver's License
- Knowledgeable and be up to date with various Insurance “DRP” practices/guidelines.
- I-CAR training would be an asset
Benefits
- Supplemental Pay: Bonus
- Benefits: Health, dental, vision
- Paid time off
