After an accident, your insurer will often suggest one of its approved body shops. That can give the impression that you have no choice over where the vehicle is repaired, but the situation depends on your insurance policy and the way the claim is being handled.
Some policies allow you to use a repairer of your choice, while others apply different conditions if you decide not to use a garage within the insurer’s approved network. Before booking a repair, it is therefore worth checking exactly what your policy allows and whether choosing your own body shop will affect the cost of the claim.
Do I have to use my insurer’s approved body shop?
Your insurer may recommend an approved repairer and may require an estimate or inspection before authorising the work. However, this does not mean that every policy requires you to use the insurer’s chosen garage.
Depending on the policy, you may be able to select your own repairer but face a higher excess or restrictions on how much the insurer is prepared to pay towards labour and repair costs. Some additional benefits, such as a courtesy car supplied through the insurer, may also depend on using an approved repairer.
For that reason, it is better to speak to your insurer before arranging the work rather than assuming that the same rules apply to every claim.
What should you ask your insurer?
If you would prefer to use your own body shop, ask the insurer whether this is permitted under your policy and whether it changes your excess or the amount they will contribute towards the repair. It is also worth confirming whether the insurer needs to approve the estimate before work begins and whether choosing an independent repairer affects benefits such as a courtesy car or an insurer-backed repair guarantee.
Getting these details confirmed before authorising repairs can prevent disagreements about payment later.
Why choose your own body shop?
There are many reasons why a driver might prefer a particular repairer. You may already know the workshop and trust the quality of its work, or you may want a business that specialises in the type of damage your car has suffered.
Communication can also be an important factor. When a vehicle requires extensive bodywork or refinishing, some owners prefer to speak directly with the people assessing and repairing the car rather than simply following the insurer’s recommendation.
Choosing your own body shop does not automatically mean that it is better than the insurer’s approved repairer. It simply allows you to consider factors such as experience, previous work, certification, location and the repair process itself.
What if the accident was not your fault?
A non-fault accident can be handled in several different ways. You might claim through your own comprehensive policy, deal directly with the other driver’s insurer or use another claims management arrangement.
The important point is not to assume that a non-fault accident allows you to authorise any repair and send the invoice to the insurer afterwards. The repair and payment process should be agreed in advance so that you know who is responsible for the cost and whether there are any limits or conditions.
What should you look for in an accident repair body shop?
Regardless of who chooses the repairer, the quality of the repair remains important. Look for a workshop with experience in accident damage, clear estimates, good communication and the equipment needed to carry out body and paint repairs properly.
Modern accident repair can involve much more than straightening a panel and applying fresh paint. Depending on the vehicle and the impact, there may also be sensors, cameras, electrical systems and other components that need to be considered as part of the repair.
If you have been involved in an accident in Bristol and would like FC&C Body Repair to assess the vehicle, contact your insurer first if the work will form part of an insurance claim. Once the insurance position is clear, we can inspect the damage and discuss the repair options with you.
Call 07757 653888 or send us a message.
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