Code of Ethics

Introduction and Purpose

Assurity Certified Solutions certification signifies that a collision repair facility meets rigorous standards for quality, integrity, and OEM-aligned workmanship. Certification is a privilege, not a right.

By applying for and accepting Assurity certification, the facility, its owners, managers, and technicians agree to comply with this Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct at all times. This Code is incorporated into the certification agreement.

Violation of this Code is grounds for immediate review and may result in suspension or permanent cancellation of certification, removal from the CollisionRepairLocator.com network, and loss of all rights to use the Assurity Certified designation or logos.

Core Obligations of Certified Facilities

Certified facilities must:

1. Perform repairs to OEM standards. Complete all repairs in accordance with applicable OEM repair procedures, specifications, and guidelines whenever possible. Any deviation from OEM procedures must be documented in writing, disclosed to the customer and insurer in advance, and justified with technical reasoning.
2. Prioritize safety. Never compromise vehicle safety. Safety-critical systems (structural components, airbags, brakes, steering, ADAS, calibrations, etc.) must be repaired or replaced correctly and verified. No shortcuts that affect safety are permitted.
3. Maintain complete honesty and transparency in estimates and billing.
   • Provide accurate, honest estimates based on actual damage and required repairs.
   • Never perform or bill for “ghost repairs,” work not performed, or unnecessary repairs.
   • Clearly disclose when aftermarket, recycled, or non-OEM parts are used.
   • Document all supplements and changes to the original estimate with supporting photos and explanations.
4. Communicate clearly and fairly with customers and insurers. Explain repairs, timelines, parts choices, and costs in plain language. Use the Estimate Translator (when provided through Assurity tools) or equivalent plain-language explanations to help customers understand their repair. Never mislead customers about the necessity or extent of repairs.
5. Maintain accurate documentation. Keep complete, accurate, and contemporaneous records of all repairs, parts, labor, photos, and communications. Records must be retained for the period required by law and made available to Assurity upon request.
6. Cooperate with audits, investigations, and quality reviews. Fully cooperate with any Assurity audit, re-inspection, customer complaint investigation, or quality review. Provide requested records, access to vehicles, and truthful information without delay or obstruction.
7. Use certification status and logos correctly. Only use the “Assurity Certified” designation, logos, and badges while in good standing and in full compliance with brand guidelines. Immediately cease all use of the designation and materials upon suspension or cancellation of certification. Never misrepresent certification status or imply endorsement by OEMs or insurers that does not exist.
8. Comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Operate in full compliance with federal, state, and local laws, including consumer protection, automotive repair, environmental, and data privacy laws. Maintain all required licenses and permits.
9. Protect customer information and data. Handle customer personal information, vehicle data, and photos responsibly and in accordance with applicable privacy laws. Do not share or misuse data obtained through Assurity platforms or during the repair process.
10. Report violations. Promptly notify Assurity if you become aware of any violation of this Code by your facility or another certified shop.

Prohibited Conduct

The following conduct is strictly prohibited and constitutes grounds for cancellation of certification:

• Performing or billing for work not actually completed (“ghost repairs”)
• Knowingly using incorrect or substandard parts on safety-critical systems
• Intentionally misrepresenting vehicle damage or required repairs to customers or insurers
• Failing to follow OEM repair procedures without proper disclosure and documentation
• Obstructing or providing false information during an Assurity audit or investigation
• Using the Assurity Certified name or logos after certification has been suspended or revoked
• Engaging in fraudulent, deceptive, or unethical business practices
• Retaliating against any employee, customer, or other party who raises a legitimate concern about repair quality or business practices
• Any other action that brings the Assurity Certified program or the collision repair industry into disrepute