This is a general guide, not legal or insurance advice. Check your own policy, or take professional advice about your situation.
After an accident, your insurer may suggest using one of its approved repairers. That can be convenient, but it doesn't mean you have no say. In the UK, you can ask to have your car repaired by a garage or body shop you choose. How that works depends on your policy, so it's worth checking a few things first.
What your insurer's approved repairers offer
Insurers often have a network of repairers they already work with. Using one can make the claim simpler, and your policy may include extras such as a courtesy car or a repair guarantee when you do.
What to check before choosing your own repairer
- Whether your policy has different terms or a higher excess if you don't use an approved repairer
- Whether you still get a courtesy car, if your policy includes one
- Whether your insurer needs to see an estimate and agree the cost before work starts
- Who pays the repairer, and whether you have to pay anything up front
- What guarantee comes with the repair, and who provides it
What to send your chosen repairer
Your repairer can move faster with your claim number, your insurer's contact details and clear photos of the damage. Take photos close up, from further away and from different angles.
If the accident wasn't your fault
You may be able to claim from the other driver's insurer rather than your own. Our guide to non-fault accident repairs explains what usually happens next.
Choosing J.C Paint in Wirral
We work with all major insurance companies and can deal with your insurer directly. Read more about our insurance repairs, or get a quote with a few photos.