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My insurer won't repair my car - what should I do?

Following an accident, my car has substantial damage to a rear wing, wheel and suspension components. The insurer's suggested repairer will not repair the car. They say there was a previous repair and the quality of the underlying paint is unknown and could cause their paintwork to degrade. The insurer will now not arrange for repair of my car and is offering me an amount in lieu, based on the repairer's estimate. What should I do?

Asked on 30 July 2018 by holgeris

Answered by Honest John
Have the vehicle inspected by an independent engineer to correctly establish the methods of repair required, what has been damaged,and the associated cost. Do not accept the insurer's offer till you have done this. They will be working on heavily discounted rates agreed with their network repairer, but you do not have this same contract so will not benefit from cheaper repairs. They must also pay the cost of the VAT when they offer the settlement. They will advise they do not have to, but they do. Do not take no for an answer.
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