Home Car Accident Claims Repair Claims
Evidence, authorisation and repair in one routeManage the claim and the repair together
A car accident repair claim works better when the vehicle evidence, engineering, estimate, authorisation, network repair and handover are coordinated as one process rather than treated as separate bookings.
Sterling Return Ready
Qualifying repairs through the Sterling network include an engine oil and filter change, screenwash top-up, tyre-pressure check, interior vacuum, exterior wash and 12-month vehicle health check.
The package is subject to the published terms, the repair qualifying and the work being technically suitable for the vehicle.
This is not a walk-in scratch or dent service
Sterling coordinates accident damage that forms part of a vehicle claim. The repair begins with evidence and authorisation, not a retail workshop quote.
Claim evidence
Five safe photographs and the accident account establish the vehicle, damage and circumstances for the first review.
Assessment and decision
The repair method, estimate and engineering information are coordinated for the party authorised to decide.
Managed network repair
A suitable independent repairer completes the authorised work while Sterling coordinates variations, progress and handover.
What happens before a damaged car is returned
Each stage produces information needed by the next. Sterling keeps those hand-offs visible.
- 1
Report and vehicle triage
We review the accident, photographs and whether the vehicle is safe and legal to drive.
- 2
Free recovery where the claim qualifies
If the vehicle cannot be driven, Sterling can arrange recovery at no cost on a qualifying accident claim and coordinate onward storage.
- 3
Damage assessment and estimate
The vehicle is inspected and the repairer or engineer documents the damage, proposed method, parts and labour required.
- 4
Repair authorisation
Sterling supplies the required information and chases the response. The insurer, engineer or relevant third party keeps the decision.
- 5
Repair and variations
Authorised work begins. If strip-down reveals additional accident damage, the repairer records it and Sterling coordinates the variation for a further decision.
- 6
Final checks and handover
Repair documentation, relevant checks, customer updates and vehicle return are brought together. Tell Sterling if something is not right after handover.
The repair should not leave you between organisations
The repairer may need an engineer response. The engineer may need clearer evidence. The insurer or third party may need a revised estimate. Sterling identifies the missing hand-off and follows it up through the case rather than asking the driver to make several disconnected calls.
- Repairer and engineer briefed
- Outstanding authorisation chased
- Repair variations coordinated
- Material progress explained
- Handover and post-repair issue route provided
What is checked before handover
The exact inspection depends on the authorised repair, vehicle systems and documented repair method.
- Repair completenessAuthorised work is reconciled with the work recorded as completed.
- Panel and finishRelevant alignment, gaps, paint finish, trim, seals and fastenings are checked.
- Vehicle systemsWarning lights, sensors and calibration evidence are reviewed where the repair makes them relevant.
- Road testingA road test is completed where appropriate to the type of repair and vehicle.
- Handover recordsRepair and quality information is assembled for return and any remaining points explained.
- Return ReadyThe published package is applied where the completed network repair qualifies and the work is technically suitable.
Before the work begins
The route depends on the claim and any applicable policy terms. Sterling can allocate a suitable independent network repairer based on the vehicle, damage, location and required capability.
No. We coordinate the estimate and supporting evidence and follow up the decision, but authorisation remains with the insurer, engineer or third party responsible.
No. It applies to qualifying completed repairs through the Sterling network, subject to the published terms and technical suitability.
Tell Sterling promptly and provide photographs or details where useful. We will raise the concern with the relevant network repairer and coordinate the next response.
Send the accident details and vehicle photographs
A Sterling claims specialist will review the evidence and explain the assessment, recovery and mobility options.