During one of its virtual discussions, which took place on May 17, the CCPQ welcomed Denis Janelle, an automobile appraisal consultant from the Groupement des Assureurs automobiles (GAA).

Janelle began by going over some of the specifics regarding the installation of a vehicle for part lengthening.

He detailed the updated allowances for the same type of facility requiring the use of a rectifier bench.

The expert then addressed the issue of shop equipment, including the use of fasteners, rivets and adhesives, mentioning that this aspect of body repair had recently undergone a complete overhaul.

Janelle concluded his presentation by reminding attendees of the importance of referring to repair software, including Mitchell and ALLDATA, for full details about the repair processes recommended by the automakers.

He also mentioned that the GAA website has an estimator’s guide and access to regularly updated bulletins.

The GAA also offers auto body repairers the opportunity to register a member of their team who would like to work as an estimator for training.

This program is available to auto body repairers, but the number of participants is very limited.

Return of the Paint Allowance Table

Janelle also added, during the question period, that the GAA would reinstate the Paint Allowance Table.

This tool had been put on hold and taken over by the CCPQ for three years.

Mentioning that the formula found by the GAA to reactivate it meets the regulatory framework on competition, Janelle indicated that an investment of 2,000 hours will be required to achieve it.

He indicated that the new version should be released in the fall.

Finally, the estimating consultant reminded the participating auto body repairers that the GAA’s role is to establish best practices in collision repair.

He reiterated that negotiating the hourly rates offered by insurers to auto body repairers to perform the work was not in his mandate.