You Choose. Not Your Insurer.
After a crash, the first call is usually to your insurer. Within minutes you're being told where your car is going, who's repairing it, and when you'll get it back. What most drivers don't realise is that you do not have to accept the insurer's choice of repairer. Under the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) rules and consumer protection law, the choice is yours.
What the Law Actually Says
Your motor policy is a contract — it usually says the insurer will pay for repairs to a reasonable standard. It does not say you must use their network. The FCA's ICOBS rules require insurers to treat customers fairly and not unduly restrict your options. In practice that means:
- You can nominate any VAT-registered, properly accredited bodyshop — including Whoops Wheel Fix It.
- The insurer must still pay for a like-for-like repair.
- They cannot void your claim simply because you chose your own repairer.
Why Insurers Push Their Own Network
Insurer-approved networks are built around volume discounts. Repairers in those networks accept fixed labour rates (often well below market rate) in exchange for a steady flow of work. That's great for the insurer's margin — but it can mean cheaper parts, longer queues, and pressure to "repair" panels that should be replaced.
What to Say on the Phone
When the insurer asks where to send your car, use this exact wording:
"I'm exercising my right to choose my own repairer. Please log Whoops Wheel Fix It on 0207 060 3666 as my nominated bodyshop and send the engineer there."
You don't need to argue or justify. Note the agent's name, the time, and ask for a reference number.
What You Still Get
Choosing Whoops Wheel Fix It doesn't cost you anything extra on a covered claim. You still get:
- A like-for-like courtesy car for the duration of the repair.
- A lifetime guarantee on workmanship.
- Direct communication — no insurer call-centre middleman.
- Manufacturer-approved parts and methods where required.
Non-Fault? Even Easier.
If the accident wasn't your fault, you don't even need to involve your own insurer for the repair. We can recover costs directly from the at-fault driver's insurer through a credit repair arrangement — meaning no excess to pay and no impact on your no-claims discount.
Talk to Us First
Before you ring your insurer, call Whoops Wheel Fix It on 0207 060 3666 or email info@whoopswheelfixit.com. We'll talk you through the call, give you the wording, and book your car in. The whole process takes ten minutes.