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Bill

S 825

An Act requiring licensed auto insurance damage appraisers to provide safety notices to the owners of damaged motor vehicles

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Rush

Massachusetts bill requires auto insurance damage appraisers to notify vehicle owners of safety hazards from vehicle damage before return.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 825

Legislative bill overview

S 825 requires licensed auto insurance damage appraisers in Massachusetts to provide safety notices to vehicle owners whose vehicles have been damaged. The bill mandates that appraisers inform owners of potential safety hazards resulting from the damage before the vehicle is returned to the owner or repair facility.

Why is this important

Vehicle damage can compromise critical safety systems like brakes, steering, airbags, or structural integrity in ways not immediately visible to owners. Without explicit notification, owners might operate unsafe vehicles unknowingly, creating public safety risks. This bill aims to close an information gap between professional appraisers who identify damage and vehicle owners who make decisions about vehicle use and repair.

Potential points of contention

  • Industry burden and costs: Requiring appraisers to provide detailed safety notices may increase labor costs and administrative requirements for insurance companies and appraisal firms, potentially raising insurance premiums
  • Scope and liability concerns: Ambiguity about what constitutes a reportable "safety notice" could create legal liability for appraisers if accidents occur and owners claim they weren't adequately warned
  • Appraisal expertise limitations: Not all licensed damage appraisers are trained mechanical engineers; requiring them to assess safety hazards may exceed their professional qualifications and create inaccurate or incomplete warnings

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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