Why Companies Must Always Obtain Written Authorization Before Modifying Client’s Property or Vehicles

I wonder if Harker Outdoors has thought of any of these points and what the ramifications could be if they do not get written authorization for work they do to or on their cutomers vehicles. For the rest of us, remember if you have property or vehicles that you may be modifying from the original manufacturer’s design, hold the business responisble for anything that was done wrong, that did not have a written authorizion for the work, and make sure that when the work is completed, that there are no safety issues or performance concerns that could prove to be detrimental to the product being modified or a compromise to safety of persons who may interact witht the product or vehicle. If there are concerns, and the business ignores your concerns, do not hesitate to go after them legaly.

Who is Harker Outdoors? Stay tuned to the blog to find out and read about all the issues with this Utah camper manufacturer.

For companies that modify vehicles, adding equipment or altering features is part of the business. However, modifying a vehicle without securing written authorization—especially for changes that impact critical features like handling, suspension, or other safety-related aspects—can lead to devastating financial and legal consequences. Failing to obtain explicit written consent before making such changes exposes a company to expensive lawsuits, reputational damage, and prolonged resource-draining legal battles. Here’s why it’s crucial to secure this consent upfront.

1. Legal Liability and the Enormous Costs of Lawsuits Over Driving Safety

Modifying key driving parameters like handling, suspension, or braking characteristics without full disclosure can lead to significant legal exposure. These types of modifications can alter the vehicle’s stability, response, or control in ways the client may not expect, increasing the risk of accidents. If a client has an accident due to altered driving dynamics they weren’t made aware of, the company could be held liable.

Being sued for unauthorized modifications means not just paying for repairs but potentially facing claims for extensive medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering damages. Even with insurance, defending a lawsuit is a costly, time-intensive process. Legal defense costs can reach tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the claim, and can drag on for months or even years, draining the company’s financial and human resources.

2. Risk of Voided Warranties and Insurance Claims Against the Company

Clients rely on their vehicle warranties and insurance for financial protection, but unauthorized modifications can void both. Unauthorized changes—especially those that impact driving safety—jeopardize these protections, leaving clients responsible for unforeseen repair or replacement costs. This can trigger claims for compensation against the company, adding another layer of financial risk.

In cases where insurance is affected, the client might file a claim against the company’s insurance policy, which can raise premiums or even lead to coverage denial. If the company has no written documentation proving client authorization, it lacks crucial evidence to defend itself. Without this protection, companies are left vulnerable to absorbing the full financial weight of repairs, replacements, or even punitive damages.

3. Severe Reputational Damage and Eroded Client Trust

Unauthorized modifications to handling or other critical functions can irreparably damage a company’s reputation. Clients expect that any modifications made will respect their vehicle’s integrity and their safety. When companies make unauthorized changes, they break that trust, which can spread through negative reviews, complaints, and word-of-mouth warnings, all of which deter potential future clients. Rebuilding trust is challenging and often requires costly marketing and PR efforts to restore the company’s image. This damaged reputation can affect revenue for years to come.

4. High Cost and Disruption of Rework and Damage Control

Unauthorized modifications frequently result in costly rework or repairs. When clients are dissatisfied or experience issues due to these modifications, the company usually bears the expense of restoring the vehicle to its original state. This can involve reinstalling equipment, replacing parts, or even reversing entire modifications, all of which can be financially draining. Beyond the cost of the work itself, rework and damage control slow down operations, drain resources, and cause delays, ultimately hurting the company’s productivity and bottom line.

5. The Enormous Time and Cost to Defend a Lawsuit

If unauthorized modifications lead to a lawsuit, the time and financial resources required to defend against it can be staggering. A lawsuit may take months or even years to resolve, tying up employees’ time and costing thousands in attorney’s fees, court costs, and other legal expenses. These resources could be better spent growing the business, but instead, they’re dedicated to defending decisions that could have been easily avoided with a simple authorization. The total cost—considering legal fees, lost productivity, and possible damages—can be debilitating for a business, particularly if there is no written authorization to protect it in court.

6. Written Authorization Protects the Company Against Disputes and Losses

Obtaining written authorization before altering key vehicle features is essential not only for client transparency but also as a protective measure for the company. Written consent provides clear documentation of the client’s awareness and acceptance of the modifications, forming a solid defense in the event of disputes. This record of consent reduces the risk of costly lawsuits, helping avoid months of legal back-and-forth and ensuring that both parties understand and agree upon the scope of work and potential impacts on the vehicle.

Conclusion: Protecting the Company’s Future with Written Consent

Written authorization is far more than an administrative formality—it’s an essential safeguard that protects a company’s finances, reputation, and resources. Securing client consent minimizes liability, provides clarity, and significantly reduces the risk of financial devastation due to legal battles. In an industry where misunderstandings can escalate into high-stakes legal challenges, requiring written authorization before making modifications is essential for ensuring the company’s long-term stability and success.