Can a mechanic charge more than the estimate in BC?

The rule is in the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act. Section 4 lists deceptive acts. One of them is an estimate that is materially less than the price the business later charges. The exception is when the customer expressly agreed to the higher price before the work was done. Section 5 says a business must not commit a deceptive act.

Section 5 also puts the burden of proof on the business. If a dispute comes up, the shop has to show it did not act deceptively.

The Act does not put a number on “materially.” It sets no percentage and no dollar figure. If you read about a set percentage online, check which province it comes from.

No. BC has no estimate law written only for repair shops. The general consumer law above is what covers a repair bill. Consumer Protection BC's auto repair guidance gives simple advice. Get a written quote that lists the repairs and the cost. Ask the shop to contact you before the cost goes over it.

Yes, once you agree. Cars hide things. A brake job can turn up a seized caliper. A rusted exhaust bolt can snap. Under the Act, the shop needs your express consent to the higher price before it does the added work. In practice, that means a call, the new number, and your yes.

Our promise is simple. Nothing goes over your approved number without a call. We send photos of what we found and a price for the new line, then we wait for your answer. If you say no, we do only the work you approved. A sample digital inspection shows how each line gets its own approval.

Read the work order before you sign it. Ask about any line that lets the shop add work on its own. If it is unclear, write your limit on the order in your own words.

• The work to be done, line by line.
• The price for parts and labour, with tax shown.
• The best phone number to reach you if the price changes.
• A note that extra work waits for your approval.
• Whether you want your old parts back.

Start at the counter. Ask to see the estimate, the record of what you approved, and the old parts.

BC's Commercial Liens Act gives a business that repairs goods a lien on them for its services. When a price was agreed and the work is done, the lien secures the agreed amount. A lien is why a shop can keep a car until the bill is paid. If you dispute the amount, the Act lets you apply to court. You can pay the amount the shop claims into court, and the shop must then release the vehicle while the court decides.

For smaller amounts, BC's Civil Resolution Tribunal hears most small claims up to $5,000. This guide explains the law in general terms. For advice on your own dispute, talk to a lawyer. To start with a clear quote, book a bay.