Insurance-Approved Car Repairs in Chorley
When your vehicle is damaged in an accident or collision, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: “What will my insurance cover?” and “Where should I get the repairs carried out?” Understanding how insurance-approved repairs work helps you make informed decisions and ensures your car is restored to its pre‑accident condition.
What Does “Insurance‑Approved” Mean?
Many insurers have networks of “approved repairers” – bodyshops that meet the insurer’s standards for equipment, training and quality. When you call your insurer, they may try to direct you to one of these centres. However, under UK consumer law and EU Block Exemption regulations, you always have the right to choose your own repairer. Insurers cannot insist you use their preferred garage or threaten to refuse your claim. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 and related regulations protect your freedom to select a bodyshop you trust.
Understanding Your Coverage
Whether your insurer will pay for repairs depends on the type of policy you have. In a comprehensive policy, most accidental damage repairs – from minor scrapes to major collision damage – are covered . With third‑party, fire and theft cover, only fire or theft damage to your own vehicle is covered; you must pay for other repairs yourself unless someone else is at fault. Standard third‑party insurance only covers damage to other people’s property and will not pay for repairs to your own car .
Insurance policies generally exclude everyday wear and tear, mechanical failures and breakdowns unless you’ve added specific cover . That’s why it’s vital to check your policy details and excess amounts before deciding whether to claim . If the repair cost is less than your excess, you may prefer to pay yourself to avoid affecting your premium and No Claims Bonus (NCB).
Your Legal Right to Choose a Repairer
Under EU Motor Vehicle Block Exemption regulations and UK law, every driver is free to choose their repairer. The Motor Claim Guru explains that the consumer’s right to use their own repairer is protected by the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and earlier directives . Manufacturers must provide the information necessary for any independent bodyshop to carry out repairs. Aggressive tactics by insurers (often called “steerage”) that pressure you into using a particular repairer may breach consumer protection regulations .
When you choose Epic Paintwork:
Quality & Genuine Parts: Independent repairers can insist on genuine manufacturer parts and paint systems, preserving your vehicle’s value and warranty. Cheap parts fitted by some insurer networks may not perform as well and could affect resale value .
Personal Service: We offer more attentive service and keep you informed throughout the repair process. Large networks may prioritise volume over quality.
There's a reason that insurers come to us when their own bodyshop network struggles to even source parts for cars. We always go the extra mile for our customers to ensure that their pride and joy stays on the road.
What Happens in a Non‑Fault Accident?
If the accident wasn’t your fault, you shouldn’t have to pay any excess or lose your No Claims Bonus. Accident management companies can arrange a non‑fault repair where the at‑fault driver’s insurer pays all costs.
Common Questions
Will using an independent repairer void my policy?
No. Insurers cannot void your policy for choosing your own repairer.
Does comprehensive insurance cover all repairs?
It covers most accidental damage, but not wear and tear or mechanical breakdowns . Always read your policy carefully.
Can I claim for upgrades or modifications?
Unapproved modifications may invalidate your cover or exclude certain claims. When in doubt, speak to your insurer before making changes to your vehicle.
Do I need multiple repair estimates?
Legally, you only need one estimate . However, some insurers may request additional quotes; we can help you supply these if required.
Book Your Repair Today. Whether you’re looking to reverse the damage from a minor scrape or need a full-scale paint and panel job, Epic Paintwork delivers quality, honesty, and a finish you’ll be proud of.
Visit us in Chorley at our location: Unit 5, Chapel Lane Business Park,
Coppull, Chorley PR7 4NB for a FREE QUOTE
Coppull, Chorley PR7 4NB for a FREE QUOTE
Call us now for a free quote: 07756 674750