What free choice of repairer means
Free choice of repairer is your right to have your vehicle repaired at the workshop of your choice when the damage is covered by your insurance. The insurer can recommend its network, but it cannot impose it unless you expressly agreed to that in your policy.
Some policies offer a lower premium in exchange for using approved workshops only, or limit cover if you go elsewhere. So the first step is to check the particular and general terms of your contract.
Why it pays to choose yourself
- You can use a workshop you trust, that knows your car and whose service you already know.
- It may be more convenient because of location or services such as collection and delivery.
- You can ask clearly which parts will be used: original parts or equivalent-quality ones.
- You have a single point of contact who explains the repair and its warranty.
How to exercise it, step by step
- Report the claim to your insurer within the usual 7-day deadline.
- State clearly which workshop you want to repair the car and ask them to record it on the claim file.
- Take the car to the workshop (or ask for it to be collected) and give them the claim reference.
- The workshop requests a visit from the loss adjuster, who assesses the damage.
- Once the assessment is approved, the repair is carried out and the car is returned.
If the insurer raises objections, ask them to tell you in writing which clause of your policy they are relying on. Keeping that message will help if you need to make a complaint later.
Bear in mind too that choosing your workshop does not change what your policy covers: the insurer's adjuster assesses the damage in the same way wherever you go. What does change is who carries out the repair, how they keep you informed and who stands behind the work afterwards.
How Green Car Service Tenerife helps
We work with your insurance company, coordinate the loss assessment and keep you updated on your car's status in real time. If you need it, we can collect and return the vehicle to your home, and the paintwork we apply comes with a lifetime warranty.
If your policy has an excess or there is any amount your insurance does not cover, we explain it before starting so there are no surprises. You can ask us for a no-obligation estimate or read how we handle insurance claims.
Every policy is different. This guide does not replace reading your contract or the advice of your insurer or broker.
Frequently asked questions
Can the insurer refuse to pay if I do not use their workshop?
It depends on your policy. If you have not expressly agreed to repair only within their network, you can usually choose. Check the terms or ask the insurer to point out the specific clause.
Do I have to pay for the repair up front?
Generally, when the claim is covered and the insurer has authorised the repair, payment is handled between the insurer and the workshop. You would only pay what the policy does not cover, such as an excess.
Does this also apply if the other driver was at fault?
Yes. In that case you claim through your own insurer or the other party's, and you can still name the workshop you prefer.
Do you work with my insurer?
We work with insurance companies. Call us with your policy details and we will confirm how to handle your case.
Can I switch workshop if I already named another one to my insurer?
Generally yes, as long as the repair has not started. Let your insurer know as soon as possible so they can update the claim file and inform the adjuster.
Other guides
What to do after a road accident
The steps, in order, to keep yourself safe, notify the right people and document the incident properly.
ReadHow to fill in the accident report form
Box by box: how to complete the Spanish accident report form without mistakes that could complicate your claim later.
ReadVehicle loss assessment, explained
Who the loss adjuster is, what they check, how long it usually takes and what you can do if you disagree with their assessment.
ReadTotal loss: what it means and what you can do
When insurers write a car off, how the payout is worked out and what options you have with your vehicle.
ReadA guide to buying a used car
Which documents to ask for, what to check before paying and what warranty you are entitled to when buying second-hand.
ReadCan we help with your case?
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