If your car has been damaged in an accident or other incident, it can be a real inconvenience. Whether a minor scrape or more serious damage, you will want to get it repaired and back on the road as quickly as possible — preferably looking as good as it did before. In the hands of a reputable body shop this is entirely achievable. The key word, of course, is ‘reputable’.
Freedom to choose:
Many car owners are unaware that they are not obliged to use their insurance company’s ‘approved repairer’. Legally the choice is yours. Using a repairer known and trusted by you - or at least recommended by someone you trust - will not delay your claim.
Why choose Autofinish?
Easy access and parking. Conveniently situated on a small industrial estate in Buxton, we're easy to find and there's plenty of parking space. directions and location map
‘Like for like’ courtesy car provided on no-fault claims for however long it takes us to carry out the repair.
No excess charge for non-fault claims.
A reduced access charge for claims on your own insurance may be negotiated.
Choose Autofinish to repair your car and can rest assured the repair will be of top quality — with attention to detail as standard.
Your rights when it comes to repairs
You have a legal right to choose who repairs your car, even if you’re making a car insurance claim for it. According to legislation known as the Block Exemption Regulation, your insurer can not force you to use their repairers - and they will still pay out for the repairs if your claim’s accepted. It means you can choose to use a body repair specialist like Autofinish, in whom you have confidence to do a good job, and it saves you travelling to your insurer’s chosen repairer.
What to do if you want to use your own repairer
If you do want to use your own repairer, the first thing you’ll need to do is check your policy documents for any conditions and additional excesses.
Get a quote from your chosen repairer and send it to your insurer for approval - you might have to email it and post it. If you want to get your vehicle ASAP then follow up with a phone call.
If your insurer agrees to the cost of the work, make sure you’re clear over whether you’ll have to pay the body shop yourself and claim the money back, or if your insurer will pay the repairer directly.
Finally, talk to your insurer if you think any decisions they have made are unfair. If you are unable to resolve the issue with your insurer, you can complain to the Financial Ombudsman.
