Do I Have to Use My Insurance Company's Panel Beater?

It's a common question after a car accident:

“Can I choose my own panel beater, or do I have to use the repairer my insurance company recommends?”

The answer in New Zealand depends on your insurer and the terms of your individual insurance policy.

Start With Your Insurance Policy

Different insurers can have different processes for vehicle repairs.

Some insurance policies provide for repairs through the insurer's preferred or approved repairer network.

Some policies may allow you to nominate or arrange your own repairer, but different conditions can apply.

That's why you shouldn't assume that every insurance policy works the same way.

Speak to Your Insurer Before Repairs Begin

If you have a preferred panel beater, tell your insurance company when lodging or discussing your claim.

Ask them:

• Can I nominate my preferred repairer?
• Does my policy require me to use an approved repairer?
• Does choosing my own repairer affect the claim?
• Does it affect any repair guarantee provided by the insurer?
• What needs to happen before repairs can begin?

Get clarification before authorising any work.

Why Do Insurers Have Approved Repairers?

Insurance companies may work with networks of repairers that meet their processes and requirements.

Using an insurer's preferred repairer may also come with specific repair guarantees under some insurance policies.

If you would prefer a different repairer, discuss this with your insurer and understand what your policy allows before making your decision.

Can I Ask for Orewa Panel & Paint?

You can contact Orewa Panel & Paint and tell us about your accident and insurance claim.

You should also speak to your insurer and confirm the process required under your particular policy.

If information, photographs or an assessment of the vehicle is required, we can discuss the repair with you and explain the next steps from our side.

Choosing a Panel Beater

Regardless of how your repairer is selected, you want to know your vehicle is being repaired by people you can trust.

Consider:

• Experience
• Quality of workmanship
• Communication
• Automotive refinishing capabilities
• Customer reviews
• Previous repair work
• Local reputation

Orewa Panel & Paint has more than 35 years of automotive repair experience, providing panel beating, spray painting, rust repairs and accident repairs to customers in Orewa and the wider Hibiscus Coast area.

Talk to Us About Your Insurance Repair

If you've been involved in an accident and aren't sure what to do next, contact Orewa Panel & Paint.

Tell us which insurance company you're with and what has happened to your vehicle.

We can explain what information we need from you and help you understand the repair side of the process.

Insurance repair enquiry?

Contact Orewa Panel & Paint or send us photographs of your vehicle damage online.