Is it mandatory to go to a designated repair shop for insurance claims?
2 Answers
Generally, you can choose a repair shop on your own. Insurance companies have recommended repair shops, and you can either go to the ones recommended by the insurance company or choose a legitimate repair shop yourself and then apply to the insurance company. Additional information: 1. Documents required for the insured to claim compensation: (1) Original insurance policy, claim form, property loss list, technical appraisal certificate, accident report, rescue expense invoice, necessary account books, vouchers, and certificates from relevant authorities. (2) Other proofs and documents that the policyholder or insured can provide to confirm the nature, cause, and extent of the insurance accident. 2. Documents required for insurance claims: The most basic documents required for vehicle insurance claims are: claim application form, repair invoice, insurance damage assessment form, original repair list from the repair shop, driver's license, and copy of the vehicle registration certificate.
I used to misunderstand that insurance claims required repairs at insurer-designated shops, until an accident clarified things. When my car was hit, the insurer recommended a distant shop, but my trusted local garage was more convenient with fairer quotes. Customer service confirmed reimbursement was possible with qualified shops providing proper invoices, though minor price differences might require self-payment or extra approval. Reflecting now, policies often vaguely state ‘priority to partner shops’, but legally consumers retain choice rights unless violating fairness principles. I advise checking policy terms when buying insurance or clarifying options during claims to avoid overspending and wasted time.
