Question 1

What is a private smash repair?

Accepted Answer

A private smash repair is a car body repair paid for directly by the vehicle owner — not through an insurance claim. This is common when the damage is minor, the owner wants to avoid affecting their premium, or they simply prefer to pay directly and deal with a repairer of their choice.

Question 2

How does private repair compare to going through insurance?

Accepted Answer

Private repairs give you more flexibility to choose your repairer and avoid potential premium increases. Insurance claims go through the insurer who may direct you to a preferred repairer. For minor damage, private repair is often the better value option when you factor in excess payments and premium changes.

Question 3

Do I need to use my insurer's preferred repairer?

Accepted Answer

If you are lodging an insurance claim, your insurer may direct you to their preferred repairers. For private repairs, you are free to choose any licensed repairer you like. PanelRepairQuote helps you compare estimates from different local repairers.

Question 4

What types of damage can be repaired privately?

Accepted Answer

Most cosmetic damage — bumper repairs, panel dents, paint scratches, parking damage, minor panel damage — is suitable for private repair. More significant structural damage should be assessed by a licensed smash repairer.

Question 5

How do I know if I should claim on insurance or pay privately?

Accepted Answer

A helpful starting point is to get an indicative quote first. If the repair cost is close to or lower than your excess, paying privately usually makes sense. PanelRepairQuote helps you understand the likely cost before you make that decision.

	Private repair	Insurance claim
Choose your repairer	Yes	Sometimes limited
Affect no-claim bonus	No	Possibly
Excess payment	No excess	Yes
Best for	Minor to moderate damage	Major damage

Private smash repair quotes without going through insurance

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How the private repair quote process works

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Private repair vs insurance — which should you choose?

Private smash repair — common questions

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