After an accident, your insurer will usually steer you towards their "approved repairer network". What many drivers never discover is that this is a suggestion, not a requirement: UK law gives you the right to choose who repairs your car.
Why insurers push their network
Network body shops agree discounted labour rates and repair methods with the insurer. That's a commercial arrangement that works well for the insurer — but the repair is being done to a cost target, and that can influence decisions like repairing versus replacing panels, or which parts are used.
What choosing your own repairer means
- Your car is repaired by a shop answerable to you, not to the insurer's procurement team.
- You can choose a specialist — vital for prestige, performance and classic cars.
- The claim itself is unaffected: same excess, same process. The repairer provides the estimate and evidence, and the insurer settles it as normal.
What to say to your insurer
One sentence: "I'll be exercising my right to use my own repairer — Canada Coachworks in Byfleet. They'll send you the estimate." Some insurers mention a small admin condition or courtesy-car difference — ask them to confirm any impact in writing, and weigh it against getting the repair you actually want.
We handle the photographs, estimates and engineer liaison for every insurance customer. How our insurance repair service works — or call 01932 988 161 before you accept a network booking.