What You Don't Know Can Hurt You!

Estimates, damage reports and appraisals all serve the same basic purpose. They provide an itemized list of all known accident related damage. Most writers of these reports will often refer to collision estimating guides containing part illustrations, part names and prices, flat rate labor times, and other information concerning procedures.

Some of the following terms may appear on the damage report. These terms will tell you exactly what the insurance company is paying the body shop to do to your vehicle


R+I = Remove and Install

R+R = Remove and Replace

OH = Overhaul – Remove an assembly from the vehicle, disassemble, replace parts as needed, reassemble, install and adjust

D+R = Disconnect and Reconnect parts at the point they are attached to the subject part. This is becoming rare as insurance companies tighten their budgets

IO or IOH = Included Operation or Included in Overhaul. This is becoming more common all the time as insurance companies tighten their budgets

OEM = Original Equipment Manufacturer – parts are original factory parts from the manufacturer of the vehicle

LKQ = Like, Kind and Quality – parts are used parts from a salvage yard

QRP = Quality Replacement Parts – parts are aftermarket


The damage report should detail ALL accident related damage and recommended repair procedures. It should also note special circumstances which might affect the repair such as aftermarket accessories and pre-existing damage. Remember that any damage not listed on the damage report is not being paid for by the insurance company so there is no guarantee that it will be repaired. More and more all the time, technicians are refusing to repair damage that the insurance company does not pay them for and they are within their rights. It may be a good idea to obtain a copy of the finalized damage report to ensure that all accident related damages are covered by the insurance company. If you notice any accident related damages that are not covered on the damage report, you should contact the insurance adjuster handling the claim to be sure the damage is covered by insurance and repaired. Most importantly, you should communicate with your insurance company and with your collision center. GOOD COMMUNICATION on everyone’s part is the BEST way to ensure quality and feasibility for everyone.