FAQ
Will Insurance Cover Panel Beating?
How car insurance works with collision repairs in New Zealand.
It depends on your policy type
Whether insurance covers your panel beating depends on what type of car insurance you have:
Comprehensive insurance
Covers collision damage to your own vehicle minus your excess. This is the most common type for everyday vehicles.
Third-party fire and theft
Covers fire and theft, and damage you cause to other people's property. Does NOT cover damage to your own vehicle.
Third-party only
Only covers damage you cause to others. No cover for your own vehicle.
How the insurance claim process works
Contact your insurer as soon as possible after the accident.
Your insurer will ask for details and may send an assessor.
You choose a panel beater. You have the right to choose your own repairer in NZ.
The panel beater provides a repair quote for insurer approval.
Work is carried out. You pay the excess; insurer pays the rest.
Can I choose my own panel beater?
Yes. In New Zealand, you generally have the right to choose your own repairer. While insurers often have "preferred repairers," they can't typically force you to use a specific workshop.
Panel Beating Services works with all major NZ insurers and is familiar with the documentation each one requires.
What about not-at-fault accidents?
If the accident wasn't your fault and the other driver is insured, their insurer should cover your repairs. If the other driver is uninsured, your own insurer may still help, but you might need to pursue the other party directly.
Should you go through insurance for small repairs?
Not always. For minor damage, it might be cheaper to pay out of pocket than to make a claim, especially if the repair cost is close to or below your excess. Making a claim can also affect your no-claims bonus. We can give you an honest assessment to help you decide.
We handle insurance work
Panel Beating Services works with all major NZ insurers. Free quotes.
Get a Free Quote