Always ask for a detailed, written quote for the work before getting any work done. Check the quote carefully before agreeing to the work and make sure you get a breakdown so that labour and parts are priced separately. The quote should include VAT. Make sure you get a ‘quote’ and not an ‘estimate,’ which is simply a guess at the cost of the work – it could end up costing you much more once the work is done. You can refer to a written quote later in case of any dispute.
You should be clear with the garage or mechanic about what you want done. Make sure they know not to do any extra work on the car without checking with you first. Any work needed in addition to what was agreed by you must not be carried out without your permission. Ask questions if you’re not clear on something, particularly about spare parts and the necessity to replace them.
If you want to make an insurance claim for repair work you will need to submit a quote to your insurance company before the work is carried out. The company will generally appoint an assessor to review the quote. In many cases, the assessor will negotiate the figure and may deem some of the repair work unnecessary.
Claiming for windscreen repairs
If your windscreen requires a repair or replacement, always check the terms and conditions of your insurance policy first. Make sure you have windscreen cover and take note of any specific terms and conditions. It may also specify certain windscreen repair garages that you must use to be covered.
Some windscreen repair shops advertise “free windscreen repairs”. However, if you use a garage or windscreen repair shop that is not named on your insurance policy, you may have to cover the costs yourself. Always check with your insurance company if you are unsure about what is covered on your policy.
If a business does not meet their obligations to you, you have consumer rights. Your first step is to contact the business. If they can’t resolve the issue, you can take other actions.
Read more about your rights when you have a problem with a service.
