If you’ve been involved in an accident or discovered damage to your car, one of the first questions is whether your insurance will cover the cost of repairs — and if you can choose who carries out the work.
At Glass Finish Bolton, we help customers with insurance-related repairs every day. This guide explains how cover typically works, what your options are, and how we can support you from estimate to completion.
Please note: Coverage and processes vary by policy and insurer. All quotes and timescales are confirmed after an initial inspection at Glass Finish Bolton and are subject to availability when the vehicle is booked in for the work.
Does My Insurance Cover Car Body Repairs?
- Comprehensive insurance usually covers accidental damage to your vehicle and third-party damage.
- Third-party, fire & theft typically covers damage to another vehicle; your own repairs may only be covered if costs are recovered from an at-fault driver.
- Third-party only does not cover damage to your own vehicle.
If you’re unsure, check your policy documents or call your insurer before authorising repairs.
Do I Have to Use My Insurer’s Approved Repairer?
Insurers often recommend “approved” repairers, but in the UK you can generally choose your own body shop. It’s your vehicle, and you may select a trusted local specialist. If you choose Glass Finish Bolton, we can:
- Supply a detailed written estimate with photos for your claim.
- Communicate directly with your insurer if you wish.
- Agree repair methods and parts in line with your policy and safety standards.
Excess Payments: What to Expect
If your claim is approved, you’ll usually pay the policy excess. The amount depends on your policy and any voluntary excess you selected. We’ll explain this clearly before work begins.
Claiming Against Another Driver
If the accident wasn’t your fault, you may claim from the other driver’s insurer. In those cases, you generally shouldn’t need to pay your own excess. We can help by preparing an independent estimate, sharing evidence, and liaising with the third-party insurer as required.
Why Use Glass Finish Bolton for Insurance Repairs
- Local expertise & quality workmanship using approved materials and repair methods.
- Transparent communication on costs, methods, and timescales.
- Efficient handling of estimates, photos, and paperwork for your insurer.
- Clear timelines once parts availability and repair scope are confirmed.
Learn more about our insurance repair services.
What to Do After an Accident
- Take photos of the damage and note time, location, and any other vehicles involved.
- Report the incident to your insurer and obtain a claim reference.
- Book an inspection at Glass Finish Bolton for an accurate written estimate.
- We can send the estimate and supporting information directly to your insurer on your behalf.
Final Word
Insurance claims can feel complicated, but your repair doesn’t have to be. Whether it’s a minor dent or a major repair, Glass Finish Bolton can handle the work and help with the process — from inspection and estimate to final quality checks.
All estimates are free and no-obligation. After inspection and once booked in, we’ll confirm costs and timescales so you can plan with confidence.
Request your free insurance repair estimate now or call us today to discuss your claim.
