Do I have to use my insurer’s approved garage?

No. You choose who repairs your vehicle. Insurers rarely volunteer this, but steering you towards their own network is a commercial preference, not a legal requirement.

Why insurers push their own network

Approved repairers work to rates negotiated with the insurer, which keeps the insurer's costs down. That is a perfectly reasonable business arrangement — but the pressure it creates is towards the cheapest acceptable repair, not necessarily the best one for your vehicle.

What they might say

"Your warranty will be invalidated"

A manufacturer warranty covers defects in manufacture. Accident damage repaired to the correct standard, with the correct parts, does not void it.

"We cannot guarantee work done elsewhere"

A reputable repairer guarantees its own work. Ours is guaranteed for twelve months on parts and labour.

"It will delay your claim"

Occasionally there is an extra day while the engineer authorises the estimate. On a non-fault claim handled directly with the at-fault insurer, it is usually faster, not slower.

How to exercise the right

1. Tell them clearly that you are using your own choice of repairer and give our details.
2. Ask them to send the engineer to us for the inspection.
3. If they push back, ask them to confirm in writing that your policy requires you to use their network. It almost certainly does not.
4. Or simply ring us first and we deal with them for you.

What to look for in a repairer

• Work carried out on their own premises, not subcontracted
• Paint mixed to your vehicle's own colour code and blended into adjacent panels
• Photographs at every stage, and the old parts kept for you
• A written guarantee on parts and labour
• A named person you can actually reach