Original authority pack
The estimate, images, method information and claim reference should identify the exact work requested.
Home Accident Repairs Repair Authorisation
Making the approval request complete and traceableCar Repair Authorisation After an Accident
Repair authorisation is the approval stage between a completed estimate and the work starting. This page explains what insurers, engineers and other responsible parties may need before accident repair work can proceed.
Managed accident repairs
Original authority packThe estimate, images, method information and claim reference should identify the exact work requested
Decision ownerAn update should name the insurer, engineer or organisation holding the approval decision
Supplement routeNew damage requires photographs, revised cost and technical explanation linked to the original estimate
Clear decision boundarySterling follows and explains the approval trail but cannot compel an insurer or engineer to authorise work or a particular repair method
What the assessor needs
What is needed for repair authorisation
Decision owner
An update should name the insurer, engineer or organisation holding the approval decision.
Supplement route
New damage requires photographs, revised cost and technical explanation linked to the original estimate.
Common reasons authorisation is delayed
What can hold up authorisation
‘Approved’ without detail
The record should show precisely which estimate or revision was accepted.
Customer verbal instruction
A customer may not be responsible for or authorised to approve insurer-funded additions.
Work beyond scope
Unapproved operations can create invoice and handover disputes.
Responsibility boundary: Sterling follows and explains the approval trail but cannot compel an insurer or engineer to authorise work or a particular repair method.
Who decides whether repairs can begin?
How insurer and engineer repair approval works
Repair authorisation is the point at which a responsible insurer or other party agrees the work that may proceed. Delay is often caused by an incomplete estimate, unanswered engineering query, unclear liability or a variation sent without supporting evidence. Sterling keeps the request and response under one record.
This page is for customers whose vehicle has been assessed but repair work is waiting for approval or has paused after additional damage was found.
From estimate to repair
From estimate to authorised accident repair
The estimate, engineering decision and authority must line up before the repairer commits to work.
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1
Check the estimate
Confirm vehicle identity, operations, parts and evidence are complete.
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2
Send to the correct approver
Avoid parallel requests that create conflicting versions.
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3
Answer technical queries
Return missing images, measurements or method information promptly.
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4
Record the decision
Retain approved scope, conditions, declined items and customer contributions.
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5
Control changes
Submit supplements before carrying out work outside the existing authority.
Questions about repair decisions
What drivers ask before repairs start
Repair authorisation is the point at which a responsible insurer or other party agrees the work that may proceed. Delay is often caused by an incomplete estimate, unanswered engineering query, unclear liability or a variation sent without supporting evidence. Sterling keeps the request and response under one record.
Prepare details covering original authority pack, decision owner, supplement route. Confirm vehicle identity, operations, parts and evidence are complete. Avoid parallel requests that create conflicting versions.
The record should show precisely which estimate or revision was accepted. A customer may not be responsible for or authorised to approve insurer-funded additions. Unapproved operations can create invoice and handover disputes.
Sterling follows and explains the approval trail but cannot compel an insurer or engineer to authorise work or a particular repair method.
Other repair guidance
Guidance for assessment, repair and return
Accident repairs managed from assessment to handover
Continue the vehicle-claim route with the related information here.
View repair guidanceManage the claim and the repair together
Continue the vehicle-claim route with the related information here.
View repair guidanceReplacement-vehicle assistance while yours is off the road
Continue the vehicle-claim route with the related information here.
View mobility guidance
Start with an accurate vehicle record
Report the accident details you have
Sterling will review the vehicle position, explain the available coordination route and identify which organisation must make the next decision.